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Fo us
AA
Monthly
monthlyPublication
publication of
of the
the Houma-Terrebonne
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce
Volume 14 | Number 10 | October 2021
Volume 14 | Number 10 | October 2021
Article:
Geaux Pink for Breast Cancer Aware-
ness Month with Terrebonne General |
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center
Make sure to check out our member
news and
the latest chamber updates!
Article:
A message from the Houma-Terre-
bonne Chamber Chairman of board
of directors dr. Michael Garcia
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/August 26, 2021 2 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Calendar Contact Us!
2021 OFFICERS:
Chairman of the Board
OCTOBER:
Michael Garcia, M.D.
10/5 CHAMBER DEVEOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING South Louisiana Medical Associates
Virtual Meeting | 12:00 p.m. (Subject to change)
Chairman-Elect
10/12 SMALL BUSINESS DIVERSIFICATION TASK FORCE MEETING
Virtual Meeting | 9:00 a.m. (Subject to change) William “Bill” Eroche
Watkins, Walker, and Eroche, Attorneys at Law
10/20 NATIONAL SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DAY
Treasurer
10/26 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON
Guest speaker: Dr. Sukesh Manthri, MD, Oncologist at Terrebonne General Health System
Nicholas “Nick” Hebert
Hebert Insurance Agency
The Courtyard Marriott, 142 Library Drive | 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
10/28 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Vice Chair-Community Development Division
Houma Elks Lodge #1193 Kristine Strickland, Ph.D.
7883 West Main Street | 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Subject to change) Fletcher Technical Community College
10/31 HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Vice Chair-Chamber Development Division
LaDonna Cruse
For more information about any Chamber event call (987) 876-5600 Hebert Insurance Agency
or email info@houmachamber.com. Vice Chair-Infrastructure & Economic Development Division
Visit www.houmachamber.com to register and to keep updated on any changes. Brett Means
*Events in red denotes Chamber events Synergy Bank
Vice Chair-Government Activities Division
Carleton Casey, Jr.
Buquet Distributing Company
Immediate Past Chairman of the Board
Chuck Weaver, Jr.
South Louisiana Financial Services
2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Melissa Adams Kevin Ghirardi
Danos Terrebonne General
Medical Center
Deanne Benoit
Southern Human Resource Shane Golman
Solutions, LLC b1Bank
IN THIS ISSUE: Kevin Champagne Tonya Harris
MacDonell United Methodist EmpowHERed
As the community recovers from hurricane Ida, our heart aches from seeing the Children’s Services
devastation that impacted our area. However, we are so grateful to see all the Charles Kornegay
Kim Chauvin Trapp Cadillac-Chevrolet, Inc.
community members coming together to rebuild our beautiful parish. David’s Seafood Company
Judith Lewis
In this issue of the FOCUS, we have a message to the community from Sondra Corbitt Big Mike’s BBQ Smokehouse
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber Chairman of Board of Directors Dr. Michael Garcia. Houma Area Convention
John Rogers
and Visitors Bureau
For October, we are bringing awareness to National Breast Cancer Awareness Month b1BANK
with Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. Make sure to check out Monique Crochet
Nicholls State University
some breast cancer resources and information that are listed in this issue.
Remember that the Chamber continues UNITING community
and building a STRONGER Terrebonne. STAFF
Nicol Montiville Cyndi Wilson
We have compiled a list of recovery resources and important information at CEO Executive Assistant
nicol@houmachamber.com cyndi@houmachamber.com
www.houmachamber.com/resources. As we receive more information,
this page will continue to be updated. Tyler Duplantis Tara Wolfe
Communications and Events Sales and Membership
Coordinator Coordinator
tyler@houmachamber.com tara@houmachamber.com
6133 Hwy.311 | Houma, LA 70360 | 985.876.5600 | Fax 985.876.5611 | www.houmachamber.com
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 3 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 4 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Member Milestones October Anniversaries
35
Years
Magnum Mud Equipment Co., Inc.
30
Years
Juneau Marine Refrigeration & A/C, Inc.
New
Stire Office World
P & S Sales & Service
Bryan McElroy, CPA
Members
Castagnos Goodwin Utley Engineers, LLC
Dugas Oil Company, Inc. Beauty Essentials
Felger’s Footwear Alicia Barrios
Way-Nor Construction & Home Improvements, Inc. (985) 333-4000
10 www.beautyessentialshouma.com
Years Beauty Salons, Day Spa
Custom Corrugated & Supply LLC
5
Years Brooke’s Sno-World, LLC
Hampton Inn
Boy Scouts of America - Southeast Louisiana Council Brooke Carrere
Jerome Zeringue, Louisiana State Representative, District 52 (985) 868-6555
Bayou Cane Fire Protection District www.brookessnowworld.com
Restaurants - Fast Food, Snowballs
Happy Anniversary! Thank you for trusting the Chamber!
Luke Enterprise Automation LLC
Scotty Luke
(985) 226-0819
oming up with the Chamber www.lukeoutdoorssupply.com
Farm & Industrial Equipment
McCoy Roofing, LLC
Darrell Webb
(402) 616-7304
Tuesday, October 26th • 11:30 AM
www.mccoyroofing.com
Courtyard by Marriott
Roof Contractors
142 Library Drive, Houma LA 70360
Guest Speaker:
Dr. Sukesh Manthri, MD
Oncologist at Terrebonne General Health Shenells It Photography, LLC
System Jovanna Pillot
(318) 305-7892
**Sponsorship is still available!**
www.shenellsitphotography.com
Photography
Seating is limited. Registration is $25 for members, $30 for
non-members. The registration and cancellation deadline is
Tuesday, October 19th. To register, call (985) 876-5600, email
info@houmachamber.com, or visit www.houmachamber.com.
Masks are required!
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 5 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
African American Museum seeks help after water damage from Hurricane Ida
“People were making food in
Kezia Setyawan their own kitchens,” Price said.
The Courier “We’re making food with flavor.”
Price said it was important to host
On Friday evening at the Find- the distribution at the museum be-
ing Our Roots African American cause it spotlights local Black history
Museum in Houma, museum presi- but is open to everyone.
dent Margie Scoby grappled with “We’re having this on sacred
some bad news. The building, which ground, there is no better place,”
survived Ida, has started to show Price said. “We’re just doing our
signs of significant damage, includ- small part, people from Houma and
ing water moisture that has caused Terrebonne stepped up after Katrina
the floors and ceiling to buckle and for us, and we want to do the same.”
the growth of mold and mildew One volunteer, Regina Miller of
throughout the building. Thibodaux said that everyone right
Scoby received the verdict that she now needs a hot meal.
would have to move all the contents “It’s wonderful we could do this,”
out of the museum as soon as pos- Miller said. “It’s wonderful to help
Volunteers pile plates with food at the Finding Our Roots African American History the community out.” Mold grows on the ceilings at the mu-
sible to gut and restore the build-
Museum in Houma. seum. All artifacts need to be labeled
ing. The museum does not own the Other supporters of the distribu-
Photos taken by Kezia Setyawan/Houma Courier-Thibodaux Daily Comet. and moved out as soon as possible
building. tion included Aqua Safety First Com- according to the museum’s president
“I was told to pack up and get out munity Program, New Orleans Coun- Margie Scoby.
of here,” Scoby said. “I’m running trove of artifacts, photos, records president Margie Scoby. cilman Jay Banks and the Zulu Social
around here like a crazy person ask- and other materials, documenting On Saturday, the space briefly Aid and Pleasure Club.
African American history and culture transformed into a distribution site Price presented Scoby with $300 leads or wishing to volunteer can
ing myself what I can save.”
in the tri-parish region. for hot meals. Organizer Robin Ed- to help aid in museum recovery ef- email findingourroots@yahoo.com.
Scoby, who wears a mask inside
Scoby hasn’t been able to get wards Price of New Orleans said that forts. There is also a GoFundMe account
so she doesn’t breathe in the mold,
much sleep as she thinks about what it was a way to give back to her fam- “This place has brought knowl- for the museum.
opens the women’s bathroom door
to do next. ily still in Houma. edge to the community that wasn’t Next week, from 11 a.m. to 1
where the ceiling has fallen. Then,
Mold grows on the ceilings at the They were able to deliver over there before,” Price said. p.m., toiletries and and cleaning
she walks into the kitchen where
museum. All artifacts need to be 500 plates of breakfast and 600 Scoby is seeking volunteers, funds supplies will be distributed at the
pots, pans and containers line the
labeled and moved out as soon as servings of lunch. They also handed and a local storage space to host museum located at 918 Roussell St.
counter, catching the dripping water.
The museum houses a precious possible according to the museum’s out water, tarps and ice. the museum artifacts. Anyone with
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Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 6 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Terrebonne General Expands Services to Continue
to Care for our Community
Since Hurricane Ida, Terrebonne Gen- Pediatric Care Same Day Results COVID Testing M-
eral Health System continues to work Dr. Russel Henry’s Office F – Drive-thru Center – 8 am – 4 pm –
diligently and relentlessly to bring ser- Chauvin Clinic No appointment needed. Doctor order
vices back which provide much needed • Dr. Abou Issa – Monday and every needed.
care to the region. As the largest and other Wednesday 8 am – 4 pm, Appoint- COVID Vaccines - M- F – 8 am - 4 pm
most prominent hospital in the region, it ments can be made by calling 851-6653. - Drive- thru Center – By appointment or
has only taken a few short weeks for Ter- • Internal Medicine – Tuesday – Fri- Drive Ups welcome – 873-4686.
rebonne General to be more than ready day, 9 am – 4 pm – Walk in • Healthy Lifestyles Center -
to provide extensive outpatient services. • Pediatrics – Tuesday –Friday, 9 am – CSI – Athletic trainers
These services are open and are continu- 4 pm – Walk in SPTC – Gym
ing to accept patients. • COVID testing – M-F - 9 am – 3 pm. For more information on any of these
• Terrebonne General Health System Drive-thru - No appointment needed services please call 873-4141. We are
Emergency Department Beginning Sun- • Wound Care clinic 8 am – 4:30 pm progressing as quickly as possible and
day, September 19 – 24/7 • Outpatient Services will continue to increase our services
• Comprehensive Cancer Center - 8:00 MRI/CT, Mammography, Bone den- everyday so plan to visit tghealthsystem.
am – 4:30 pm sity, other diagnostics – 8 am – 4:00 pm com daily for updates and continue to
• TG Health System Clinics – 8:00 am – Diagnostics X-ray, Ultrasound, follow us on FB, Instagram, and Twitter
4:30 pm Echo’s, and EKG’s) - Enter main lobby – 8 for the latest information.
Endocrinology Care am – 4 pm. Terrebonne General remains commit-
Pulmonology Care Rehabilitation - 8 am – 4:30 pm ted to be here for our community as we
Neurology Care Lab – 8 am – 4 pm begin to recover together.
Internal Medicine Specialists • Drive Thru Center
Deadline Approaching in Louisiana for SBA Working
Capital Loans Due to Hurricane Zeta
Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable cial condition.
Small Business Administration’s Disaster and other bills that cannot be paid be- Applicants may apply online, receive
Field Operations Center-West today re- cause of the disaster’s impact. Economic additional disaster assistance infor-
minded Louisiana small businesses of the injury assistance is available regardless of mation and download applications at
Oct. 12, 2021, deadline to apply for an whether the applicant suffered any prop- https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/.
SBA federal disaster loan for economic erty damage,” Garfield said. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer
injury caused by Hurricane Zeta that oc- These low-interest federal disaster Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or
curred Oct. 26-29, 2020 loans are available in Assumption, Jef- email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
According to Garfield, small nonfarm ferson, Lafourche, Orleans, Plaquemines, for more information on SBA disaster as-
businesses, small agricultural coop- St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. sistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard
eratives, small businesses engaged in John the Baptist, St. Mary, St. Tammany, of hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Com-
aquaculture and most private nonprofit Tangipahoa and Terrebonne parishes. pleted applications should be mailed to
organizations of any size may apply for The interest is 3 percent for business- U.S. Small Business Administration, Pro-
Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to es and 2.75 percent for private nonprofit cessing and Disbursement Center, 14925
$2 million to help meet working capital organizations with terms up to 30 years. Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA
Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay and are based on each applicant’s finan-
LOGA Releases Statement on Hewitt v. Helix Energy
Solutions Decision
A recent decision by the U.S. Court ment: United States Supreme Court for rever-
of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in Hewitt “The Louisiana Oil & Gas Association sal. We also believe that Congress should
v Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc. understands the importance of the Fair address this through legislation. Some
deemed a highly compensated employee Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and its im- of the provisions of the FLSA are clearly
eligible for overtime payments. The rul- pact on wage earners. However, this law out of touch with the oil and gas indus-
ing not only goes against historical prac- was written in the spirit to protect lower- try. Other occupations such as firefight-
tice but was also directly contrary to de- income employees, not highly compen- ers and police officers have been given
cisions rendered by the federal First and sated employees earning upwards of special overtime considerations within
Second Circuit courts when confronted $200,000 like in this case. These are the the FLSA guidelines. The industry should
with facts similar to this particular case. kinds of lawsuits that continue to chase be provided similar exemptions given the
After the decision was released, Loui- investment out of Louisiana and punish unique scheduling and unpredictable na-
siana Oil & Gas Association President employers that furnish high-paying jobs. ture of oil and gas work.”
Mike Moncla issued the following state- We hope this case will proceed to the
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 7 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Geaux Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month with
Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center
of the first female graduates of Louisiana State
University’s Law Center in 1950. After residing Along with their many programs, they host multi-
in Baton Rouge, she eventually moved to Paris, ple events that encourage the community to come
which was a city that she adored. In 1966, Mary together. One of their signature events includes
Bird Perkins had passed unexpectedly. In 1969, the Annual Gala.
her father, Paul D. Perkins, made a monetary
donation to build Baton Rouge’s first Radiation “Every year, the Gala takes on a new theme, which
Treatment Center that soon became known as the community looks forward to,” said Layne
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. Mary Bird’s Bordelon, Development Coordinator for Mary
forward-thinking approach to life lives on today Bird Perkins. “Those funds are super important in
through the Cancer Center’s physicians, staff, providing funding for all sort of patient assistant
volunteers, and donors, as they continually strive programs such as the patient navigators, transpor-
for excellence as the destination for cancer care tation, wigs for our free wig room, and education-
in the Gulf South. Mary Bird Perkins is currently al resources.”
celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The Gala was projected to be on January 28th;
“In 2007, Terrebonne General partnered with however, because of the impact of Hurricane Ida,
Mary Bird Perkins to provide long term solutions it has been postponed until 2023.
(Layne Borderlon, Development Coordinator for for battling cancer with a comprehensive Cancer
Mary Bird Perkins and Rhonda Alfred, Marketing Center that would include medical and radiation
Director for Terrebonne General.) oncology and other needed cancer-related services
all in one convenient location,” said Phyllis Peo-
Houma, LA – Terrebonne General | Mary Bird ples, President, and CEO.
Perkins Cancer Center, and many other facilities
are recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month Since the partnership, they have progressed in
in October to bring awareness to this disease while many ways, including their Comprehensive Breast
also providing information and resources to help Cancer Program. In this program, a patient is
women. According to breastcancer.org, 1 in 8 diagnosed, can receive treatment, provide neces-
women are likely to develop a formation of inva- sary surgeries and post-mastectomy reconstruc-
sive breast cancer throughout their lifetime. With tion. Another unique program that Mary Bird
this disease being prevalent and one of the top Perkins offers patients is Prevention on the Go.
types of cancer treated at the facility, Terrebonne The program goes to various community sites to
General |Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center works screen people who may be underinsured. It allows
to provide our community with excellent cancer the community to receive a total of five free cancer (Amy Boudreaux, RN, Cancer Center Program
care to encourage women to do annual checkups screenings, including Oral, Skin, Breast, Colon, Director)
and identify early symptoms of breast cancer. and Prostate Cancer. Along with their wonderful
programs, they have an abundance of highly quali-
Mary Bird Perkins was born in 1927 and was one fied specialty-trained physicians. Read More on the Next Page
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 8 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Another signature event is Geaux Pink, which weakened immune system, cancer patients “People with active cancer who are undergo-
brings attention to Breast Cancer Awareness are at risk when it comes to COVID-19. ing treatment, those about to be treated for
month in October. This event allows commu- cancer, and those who have been treated for
nity members to get involved with local events “Cancer survivors often have weakened cancer in the past six months should have
that provide funding for patient assistance immune systems due to the cancer itself priority for receiving vaccinations.”
programs. These can include events at restau- or certain treatments, so they may be at a
rants, schools, and other various businesses higher risk of a severe form of COVID-19,” In the lobby of the Cancer Center, you will see
in the community. said Dr. Sukesh Manthri, Oncologist at Ter- a beautiful butterfly mobile hanging from the
rebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer ceiling. A butterfly signifies rebirth and meta-
“This allows us to paint the town pink as a fun Center. “Immunogenicity and effectiveness morphosis.
way to raise awareness and bring attention to of COVID-19 vaccines appear lower in such
what an issue it is and how many people are individuals compared with the general popu- “All the patients that I’ve gotten the opportunity
affected by it,” said Bordelon. “Now, more than lation; nevertheless, the potential for severe to get to know are some of the most inspira-
ever, our patients are facing many challenges COVID-19 in this population outweighs the tional, positive, and happiest people you will
due to the effects of Hurricane Ida. While we uncertainties.” ever meet,” said Layne Bordelon. “They have
understand that many Geaux Pink events may such an energy about them that raises every-
not be able to proceed as planned, we are so “All people with cancer should get the one up.”
grateful for those that are still able to move COVID-19 vaccine. Except, people receiving
forward. stem cell transplant or CAR T-cell therapy Currently, the Cancer Center is expanding and
should wait at least three months after treat- adding an expansive infusion suite, a fitness
During Christmas, they host an event called ment to get vaccinated,” Dr. Sukesh Manthri and wellness area, and innovative group activ-
the Tree for Life. continued. ities space for programs such as You Thrive.
The expansion will be completed in phases so
“Every year in December, we kick off the patients will be able to receive uninterrupted
Christmas season by putting up our tree in care. The new expansion will include an Out-
the Cancer Center,” said Bordelon. “Patients, Reach Center and a food pantry for those who
families, and caregivers can buy ornaments in may be food insecure which allows cancer
memory or honor of someone.” patients to avoid barriers to care so they can
become stronger and stay healthy.
With the rise of COVID-19 cases, many There are many ways of donating to Terre-
events transitioned to virtual to prevent the bonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer
community from possible exposure. At screen- Center.
ing events, another prevention measure is
requiring participants to make appointments to “We are always looking for monetary dona-
avoid any patient overlap. Although long-term tions; any amount, big or small, will make a
outcomes are unknown, one concern is the difference,” said Bordelon. “It allows us to
number of cancers that may be detected in put the funding where it is most needed at the
later stages due to the lockdown in 2020. moment.”
To limit patient’s exposure to COVID-19, the If you would like to donate to Terrebonne
Cancer Center is offering drive-up lab testing General | Mary Bird Perkins, contact Layne
and the ability to do virtual visits with their Bordelon at Layne.Bordelon@tghealthsystem.
doctor for patients who have follow-ups or com or visit www.marybird.org/give.
need to find out their lab results. Due to a
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 9 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 10 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 11 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o m
SBA to Open Business Recovery Centers in Hammond and Thibodaux to
Help Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Ida
The U.S. Small Business Administration and LAFOURCHE PARISH business assistance to clients on a wide vari- of whether the business suffered any property
the Louisiana Small Business Development South Louisiana Economic Council ety of matters designed to help small business damage.
Center today announced the opening of SBA Nicholls State University owners re-establish their operations, over- For business owners who are unable to visit
Business Recovery Centers in Hammond and 322 Audubon Ave. come the effects of the disaster and plan for the business recovery center, they may apply
Thibodaux on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021, to pro- Thibodaux, LA 70310 their future. “Services include assessing busi- online using SBA’s secure website at https://
vide a wide range of services to businesses im- Opens 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 21 ness working capital needs, evaluating the disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/.
pacted by Hurricane Ida that occurred Aug. 26 Mondays - Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 5:30 business’s strength, cash flow projections, and SBA representatives also continue to meet
– Sept. 3, 2021. p.m. most importantly, a review of options with the with business owners and residents at disaster
“Due to the severe property damage and TANGIPAHOA PARISH business owner to help them evaluate their al- recovery centers located throughout the im-
economic losses inflicted on Louisiana busi- Southeastern Louisiana Business Center ternatives and make decisions that are appro- pacted area. For a list of locations, or to receive
nesses, we want to provide every available Small Business Development Center priate for their situation,” she said. additional disaster assistance information, visit
service to help get them back on their feet,” 1514 Martens Drive Businesses of any size and private nonprofit SBA’s website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Ap-
said SBA’s Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Hammond, LA 70401 organizations may borrow up to $2 million to plicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service
Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Opens 9 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 23 repair or replace damaged or destroyed real Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercus-
Operations Center-West. “The centers will Thursdays - Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, tomerservice@sba.gov for more information.
provide a one-stop location for businesses to “SBA representatives will meet with each and other business assets. These loans cover Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing
access a variety of specialized help. SBA cus- business owner to explain how an SBA disas- losses that are not fully covered by insurance may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applica-
tomer service representatives and Louisiana ter loan can help finance their recovery. They or other recoveries. tions should be mailed to U.S. Small Business
Small Business Development Center advisors will answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan For small businesses, small agricultural co- Administration, Processing and Disbursement
will be available to meet individually with each program, explain the application process and operatives, small businesses engaged in aqua- Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX
business owner,” she added. No appointment help each business owner complete their elec- culture, and most private, nonprofit organiza- 76155.
is necessary. All services are provided free of tronic loan application,” said Garfield. tions of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury The deadline to apply for property damage
charge. The centers will open as indicated be- According to State Director Carla Holland, Disaster Loans to help meet working capital is Oct. 28, 2021. The deadline to apply for eco-
low. Louisiana Small Business Development Center needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury nomic injury is May 31, 2022.
Business Recovery Centers business advisors at the center will provide Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless
Terrebonne General Louisiana First Horizon Foundation Commits $1 Million
Health System Sustains to Affected Communities
Structural Damage Due IBERIABANK/First Horizon Announces Hurricane Relief Efforts
to Hurricane Ida Louisiana First Horizon Foundation
announced today its pledge of $1 million
Terrebonne General Health System sustained catastroph- to help communities impacted by Hurri-
ic damages from Hurricane Ida, and as a result will begin to cane Ida. These funds will be distributed
transfer patients immediately to other healthcare facilities. The through non-profit partners to address
safety and comfort of our patients is a high priority,and it is the needs of affected areas. Applications
necessary to follow guidelines as outlined by the Terrebonne for funding to 501c-3 organizations can
General Emergency Preparedness plan, which indicates the be submitted online at https://www.firs-
transfer of patients. Terrebonne General suffered structural thorizonfoundation.com/Louisiana.
damages and there is no water supply being provided by the Immediately following the storm,
Parish at this time. IBERIABANK/First Horizon Corporation
“Like much of Terrebonne Parish, our facility received dam- distributed essential supplies, includ-
ages caused by Hurricane Ida that will force us to send patients ing water, ice, food, and fuel, to associ-
to facilities that can provide safe treatment,” said Phyllis Peo- ates and will continue to provide finan-
ples, president and CEO. “Patients will be safely transferred to cial support through its Associate Relief
facilities where we have made arrangements to care for them.” Fund. The majority of IBERIABANK/First
Terrebonne General will work closely with these facilities Horizon banking centers in affected ar-
and patient’s families to ensure a smooth transition of care. eas are now open with limited business
Our dedicated staff is doing everything possible to make this as hours. Clients can visit www.iberiabank.
seamless as possible. com for updates on business operations,
We are working with all parish, state and federal officials fee waivers, loan deferrals and other re-
to bring all services back online as soon as possible to provide covery resources.
a safe environment for our patients. “The recovery may be a “Our thoughts and prayers go out to
long and arduous process but our team is resilient and ready to everyone experiencing loss from this
get back to doing what they love to do, taking care of people,” catastrophic event,” said First Horizon
added Peoples. President and CEO Bryan Jordan. “We
Communication is challenging as there are no land lines or will continue to play a lead role in provid-
cell service. We are communicating via text services at pres- ing the resources needed to rebuild and
ent. restore the lives of our associates and
For the latest updates please visit the Terrebonne General clients and the communities we serve.”
Facebook page.
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 12 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o mLocal business owner gives away thousands of snowballs to provide the community a
break from the heat
Drew Miller
Houma Times
Brooke Carrere, owner of
Brooke’s Sno-World and resident
of the Grand Caillou area, returned
home the Wednesday night follow-
ing the storm to find her community
devastated by Ida’s wrath and left
with scarce resources.
“It was so much damage, my
daughter started crying,” she re-
membered. “We didn’t have any-
thing cold, and there was no food
and no drinks.”
Fortunately, when evacuating to
Florida, Carrere brought her com-
pany’s two mobile facilities with her,
and she had ice stored. So, she de-
cided to open up shop. But instead Ida’s wake. Brooke’s has partnered
of charging folks in need, she opted with various organizations to host
to hand out snowballs for free. “I snowball, hot meal and supply dis-
saw how many people wanted a tributions and was donated free
snowball. They were thirsty; they blocks of ice from Slo-Melt Ice. Car-
were hot,” she said. “I felt like all rere also highlighted that southern
these people support me through- states are coming together too,
out the year, and at a time right now noting a Lowe’s in Panama City that
is when they need us the most, we donated 80 cases of water for her to
have to come through for them.” bring back home for those in need.
Carrere and a small group of em- “Everybody is working together as a
ployees served snowballs at her loca- team. I find that everybody’s com-
tion on West Main Street in Houma ing together: all the differences that
the Thursday after the storm, pre- they had going on before, I think
paring over a thousand of them for that’s out of the window,” she said.
free. Then, word quickly spread, and Alongside Carrere in providing re-
the local business owner received lief has been her 17-year-old daugh-
countless requests for the Brooke’s ter Alexis. Carrere shared that it’s
had provided almost 14,000 free been an eye-opening experience for
Sno-World mobile trailer to make
snowballs, with a goal to hit 20,000. her daughter — being in “survival
stops in different areas throughout
“Everybody is working hard, but mode” and learning what it means
Terrebonne and Lafourche. Since
they actually are enjoying them- to help people. “It made her realize
that Thursday, the mobile unit has
selves. We get to still communicate what it’s like to actually be needed
visited law enforcement agencies,
with people; we’re not locked up. It and give people the resources that
health clinics and grocery and retail
feels good to be out here,” she said. we need at this time…I told her, ‘We
stores, among other places, offering
“To see the smiles on their faces is have this trailer; we have to open.
cool treats to lineworkers, police of-
priceless.” This is what we can do for our peo-
ficers, health care workers and other
The Grand Caillou native said ple.’”
community members.
she’s seen the community unite in
On Sunday, Carrere said Brooke’s
CIS Celebrates Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month
Pain or cramping in the legs may be a sign Just like clogged arteries in the heart, blocked clude: family history of vascular disease, heart attack,
of a serious condition called peripheral artery arteries in the legs raise the risk of heart at- • Ulcers/wounds that won’t heal or stroke.
disease (PAD). September is PAD Awareness tacks and strokes. • Pain or cramping in the legs A simple, painless ultrasound can test the
Month, and Cardiovascular Institute of the One in 20 Americans over the age of 50 has • Discoloration of the legs/feet blood flow in your legs to determine your risk
South (CIS) urges our communities to know PAD, but many do not recognize the symptoms, • Numbness or coldness in legs/feet of PAD.
the risk factors and symptoms of this condition or know to see a cardiologist for them. PAD is • Slow hair growth on the legs In honor of PAD Month, CIS is hosting free
and the importance of screening and early de- a common and treatable condition; however • Weak pulse in the legs screening events at various locations. View
tection. if left untreated, it can decrease quality of life • Pale, shiny skin the list of events and sign up at www.cardio.
Peripheral artery disease occurs when pe- and lead to amputation. With proper diagno- Those who are most at risk for PAD include com/event-calendar. Or, schedule a regular ap-
ripheral arteries, most commonly in the legs, sis and treatment, most patients can manage anyone over the age of 50, especially African pointment at a CIS location near you.
have plaque build-up or blockages, restricting the symptoms of PAD and avoid amputation or Americans; those who smoke or have smoked; Learn more about PAD at www.cardio.com/
blood flow. These blockages keep extremities heart attacks. and those who have diabetes, high blood pres- peripheral-artery-disease.
and organs from receiving oxygenated blood. Symptoms of peripheral arterial disease in- sure, high blood cholesterol or a personal or
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 13 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o mRotary Club of Houma Continues Terrebonne General Health System
Centennial Celebration with Donation Welcomes New Emergency Medicine
The Rotary Club of Houma
is continuing its centennial Physicians to Esteemed Medical Staff
celebration by donating 100 Terrebonne General Health System welcomes two new
toiletry items to Junior Aux- Emergency Medicine physicians, Justin Okons, M.D. and H.
iliary of Houma to be distrib- Martin Plauché, M.D. to its esteemed medical staff.
uted to three local children’s Dr. Okons received his Bachelor of Science from the Uni-
group homes. versity of North Carolina at Charlotte in Charlotte, NC, and
Throughout the year, Rota- his Doctor of Medicine from Drexel University College of
ry Club of Houma will be sup- Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He completed his four-year
porting the community with emergency medicine residency at Louisiana State University
donations and acts of ser- New Orleans, a Level 1 Trauma Center.
vice in the multiples of 100 Most recently, Dr. Okons treated patients at Rapid Urgent
to celebrate 100 years. The Care in Amite, Bogalusa, Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite,
club has previously donated LA, and St. Martin Hospital in St. Breaux Bridge, LA. He has
100 books to their new lend- a background in disaster training, including serving on a CO-
ing library, 100 cases of corn VID-19 Response Team as well as mass casualty incidents.
to the Terrebonne Churches Dr. H. Martin Plauché attended the University of Virginia Justin Okons, M.D.
United Foodbank, 100 bus passes were donated to The Haven, and 100 school supply items to in Charlottesville, VA for his Bachelor of Science in Biomedi-
local schools. cal Engineering, and graduated with distinction. He earned
This month’s donation will provide 100 toiletry items including toothbrushes, toothpaste, his Doctor of Medicine at Louisiana State University School
feminine products, and more to Junior Auxiliary of Houma. JA of Houma works closely with of Medicine in New Orleans, LA, and completed his four-
three local group homes in our community: Louis Children’s Crisis Center for young boys and year Emergency Medicine residency at LSU Spirit of Charity
girls, MacDonell Children’s Services for teenage boys, and Hooper Dorm for teenage girls. The Emergency Medicine in New Orleans. During his residency,
items will be used by current and future residents. Dr. Plauché served as the chief resident where he managed
Officially chartered in 1921, the Rotary Club of Houma was created by a group of business resident scheduling, disaster response, student education,
leaders who were committed to making a profound difference in our community. Today, mul- and recruitment.
tiple local Rotary groups have been created from the Rotary Club of Houma. Together, we will He comes with vast training in disaster response and has
celebrate 100 years of “service above self” in Terrebonne Parish with community-wide projects. worked on several publications. In his spare time, Dr. Plau-
ché enjoys fishing, kayaking, hiking, and reading.
“We are honored to have Dr. Okons and Dr. Plauche’ join
ISTE Awards Nicholls Professor for our highly skilled Emergency Medicine physician team,” said
Phyllis Peoples, President and CEO. “Their experience and
Excellence in Teacher Education achievements will bring continued expertise to our organiza- H. Martin Plauché, M.D.
tion.” Terrebonne General’s Level 3 Emergency Department
The International Society for Technology in Education
(ISTE) has recognized Dr. Cynthia Vavasseur for her achieve- serves about 50,000 patients every year. Staffed round-the-
ments in educational technology. clock, our ED offers first-line treatment for sudden illness or injuries. To find a physician or to
The nonprofit honored the professor of teacher education learn more, please visit TGHealthSystem.com.
with the 2021 ISTE Teacher Education Network Award for
Excellence in Teacher Education.
Every year, ISTE recognizes educators who make a dif-
ference in education. The ISTE Teacher Education Network
Award for Excellence in Teacher Education honors an ex- Fletcher Librarian and Faculty Members
ceptional teacher educator who advances the field, dem-
onstrates vision and innovation and improves learning and
teaching.
Selected to Participate in Department of
“I am humbled and honored to be this year’s recipient,”
said Dr. Vavasseur.
Education Program
Dr. Vavasseur guided Nicholls through the ISTE certification A Fletcher Librarian and two Fletcher Facul- to work alongside other teaching faculty from
process and in March became just the third institution to Dr. Cynthia Vavasseur ty members have been selected to participate across the state to develop these OER courses.
provide the ISTE Certification for Educators. And the sole in the Louisiana Board of Regents’ LOUIS Open Bonnie Le was selected for Music Appreciation
university to earn that designation on its first proposal. Textbooks Pilot: Interactive Open Educational and Vanessa Jacobs was selected for World
Dr. Vavasseur said it took her a year and a half to redesign their courses, projects and assess- Resource (OER) for Dual Enrollment. The goal Civilization I. The courses being developed in
ments to meet the ISTE requirements. of this project is the development of deploy- the Open Textbook Pilot have the potential to
“This is by far the highlight of my career in educational technology so far,” she said. able OER courses for 25 of the state’s general reduce costs and improve outcomes for ap-
Dr. Vavasseur is among the featured speakers at 2022 ISTE Live, the organization’s international education courses. proximately 20,000 high school students and
conference. KC Celestine, Reference and Instruction Li- 250,000 total student enrollments statewide
“ISTE plans to highlight our program and Nicholls State University in many ways. I could not be brarian, was selected to participate as one of per academic year.
more proud to bring this honor to Nicholls,” Dr. Vavasseur said. the Librarian Cohort Leaders. She was among “We are thrilled to have Fletcher faculty
ISTE is a nonprofit organization that works with the global education community to speed up 25 academic librarians from the LOUIS mem- and librarian participation in this incredible
the use of technology to solve tough problems and inspire innovation. They are the largest edu- ber libraries from across the state who were project,” commented Jodi Duet, MLIS, Direc-
cational technology organization around the world, and their annual conference draws around selected. She will lead a cohort of five teaching tor of Library Services. “These courses will
25,000 attendees. faculty from across all state college and uni- increase access and affordability for students
“The ISTE Awards have long showcased the forward-thinking work from educators working
versity systems in the development of an OER in our community and across the state. I am
to transform the learning and teaching experience at schools. We are honored to showcase the
innovative work of the 2021 ISTE award winners,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE. course for Public Speaking. proud that our faculty and librarians are con-
For more information on Nicholls Teacher Education, visit nicholls.edu/education/teacher-edu- Bonnie Le, Associate Professor of Music tinuing to work diligently to ensure affordable
cation. and Vanessa Jacobs, History Instructor, were and open educational efforts that impact stu-
selected to participate in the faculty cohorts dents seeking educational opportunities.”
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 14 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o mThibodaux Regional Health System Louisiana Women Lead:
Acquires Coastal Urgent Care Centers in Celebrating Women’s Equality Day
Thibodaux and Houma August 26, 2021, Louisiana Women Lead
celebrates Women’s Equality Day and 101
ning or being appointed to office? That is the
question we asked ourselves before arriving
Thibodaux Regional Health System and effective and efficient manner possible.” years since the certification of the 19th at a potential answer: some just do not know
Coastal Urgent Care have finalized an agree- According to Travis Landry, PA-C, Clinical Amendment, enfranchising women with the where to start.
ment for Thibodaux Regional to acquire the Coordinator of Coastal Urgent Care, “We are right to vote. Great strides have been made We decided to change that.
company’s Urgent Care locations in Thibodaux excited to join with Thibodaux Regional to pro- by women in those 101 years, but there is still Louisiana Women Lead is offering a full day
and Houma. The two locations, which serve vide high quality care to Thibodaux, Houma, more work to be done to truly achieve equal- of training for center-right women where they
thousands of residents throughout the Bay- and the surrounding areas.” “I have worked ity. will learn how to fundraise, run a campaign,
ou Region, will be formally rebranded as with CEO Greg Stock and the hospital staff for We are grateful for all the women across utilize their networks, and other critical skills
Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care. a number of years,” continued Landry. “We the political spectrum that have paved the needed to run and win. Training will be held
“Thibodaux Regional and Coastal Urgent have a great relationship and I look forward way for us today. Women like Governor Kath- in Monroe on October 16 and we encourage
Care have worked well together in the past. to working with them to serve the healthcare leen Blanco, Congresswoman Lindy Boggs, all women who are passionate about their
The integration of these two urgent care cen- needs of the region.” Congresswoman Julia Letlow, and Vice Presi- community, concerned about the direction
ters to our network will provide patients ad- Beginning immediately, Thibodaux Region- dent Kamala Harris are trailblazers who were our country is heading, or just want to make a
ditional access to hospital services and phy- al Health System will assume day-to-day op- the first women elected to their respective of- difference to apply today at our website www.
sicians,” said Greg Stock, CEO of Thibodaux erational responsibility for locations at 2031 fices and broke the glass ceiling for all of us. louisianawomenlead.org.
Regional Health System. “Patients seeking Audubon Avenue in Thibodaux and 1411 St. Their courage to step up and lead is a model Women were able to achieve the right to
treatment for non-life threatening medical Charles Street in Houma. for any aspiring female politician. vote with little financial, legal or political pow-
care will benefit by receiving care in the most With that being said, the U.S. Census Bu- er. In 101 years, we can now achieve so much
reau estimates 51.2 percent of Louisianans more by giving you that power to win. Today
and 50.8 percent of Americans are female and serves as a symbol of our continued fight for
yet only 18 percent of our legislature and 26.7 equal representation at all levels of govern-
Terrebonne General Health System percent of Congress reflect the dominant sex ment and we need you to help make that hap-
in both our state and nation. How can this be? pen.
Resilient Recovery Efforts Underway What is it that is keeping women from run-
On August 29th, the impact and damage
from Hurricane Ida was felt throughout our re-
gion and community, and Terrebonne General
was no exception.
During the storm, Terrebonne General
Health System, the largest health system in
Teche Action Clinic Committed to Serving
the region and a cornerstone within our com-
munity, sustained substantial damage. How-
Our Patients
ever, in an effort to meet the immediate needs Teche Action Clinic has resumed operations 8:00 am - 3:00 pm at our Franklin location.
of our community, limited Emergency services at its Houma (1014 W. Tunnel Blvd., Houma, As a health care system, Teche Action Clinic
are currently being provided, with additional La) and Dulac (189 Mozart Dr., Houma, LA) is able to provide care to our patients at any
clinics and medical services coming online locations. These sites will be open 9:00 am – alternative site if their primary office is not
within the next few weeks. Our Emergency 3:00 pm Mondays – Thursdays, until further open. We are also offering telehealth visits for
Services are located on the campus and are notice. any patients in need of remote services.
open from 7 am to 5 pm daily. We are currently fully operational Monday We are committed to fully restoring ac-
At the time of the storm, Terrebonne Gen- – Fridays from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm at our Frank- cess to healthcare for the families, friends and
eral was at capacity with 120 patients and over lin (1115 Weber Street), Morgan City (1124 neighbors of Terrebonne Parish and its sur-
100 staff during the impact, which produced 7th Street) and Pierre Part (3528 HWY 70 rounding areas.
high winds and torrential rain. The hospital South) locations and are also open Saturdays
subsequently sustained considerable roof, wa-
ter, and electrical damages requiring evacua-
tion of all patients for their safety. It was a dif-
ficult decision, but as basic fire and life safety
codes could not be assured, the protection of we have a responsibility to get back to caring Terrebonne General Health System is
patients and staff became a priority. for all of our patients,” stated Phyllis Peoples,
In a race against time, our staff and physi- President, and CEO. Here to Serve our Community
cians along with many of our longtime partners Although communication in our community Terrebonne General Health System is very • COVID Vaccines – M- F – 8 am - 4 pm -
such as Ochsner Health, Acadian Ambulance, has been challenging, it continues to improve proud to let you know that we are ready to Drive- thru Center – By appointment or Drive
U.S. Coast Guard, Louisiana Hospital Alliance, daily. Due to numerous calls from agencies care for you and continue our services for our Ups welcome – 873-4683.
AirMed, and Terrebonne Parish Emergency within our area and outside of our community community. These services are continuing to • Outpatient Lab – Enter main lobby - 8 am
Preparedness stepped up to perform heroic wishing to help during this time, a community accept patients. – 4 pm.
efforts to transfer all 120 patients to safety at call line has been established for donations of • Emergency Services – Daily - 7 am – 5 pm- • Radiology (X-ray, Ultrasound, Echo’s, and
other facilities across the state. food or essential items for distribution. Please Terrebonne General Campus. EKG’s) - Enter main lobby – 8 am – 4 pm.
“Our services will be brought back swiftly, call 985-873-4357 or please visit tghealthsys- • Cancer Center –Chemotherapy infusions - We will continue to expand our services
with the commitment of our physicians and tem.com/giving for more information. We M – F – 8 am – 4:30 pm – 857-8093. everyday so plan to visit tghealthsystem.com
staff to be here as the healthcare leader for are fortunate and appreciative of our close • Chauvin Clinic - Primary care – M – F - 9 daily for updates and continue to follow us on
our community. Our main goal is to provide relationship with our community and want to am – 4 pm – No appointment needed. Walk- FB, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest infor-
and restore all healthcare services to our com- assist our community that has suffered as well. ins welcome! mation.
munity as quickly as possible. We are strong We are looking forward to continuing to • COVID (same day results) Testing – M- F - Healthcare is the cornerstone of every com-
and proud of what our organization has ac- serve our community as we all rebuild our par- Mary Bird Perkins Ramp – 8 am – 12 pm – No munity and we all are committed to be there
complished in a matter of days and know that ish and community. appointment needed. when you need us the most!
Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce Focus/September 30, 2021 15 w w w. H o u m a C h a m b e r. c o mOne of only two hospitals in Louisiana to earn this recognition for high performance
in delivering the best quality and most cost-effective heart and vascular care.
Why is this so important? Because high quality heart care close
to home is not only convenient, it’s life-saving.
For more information call 985.493.4703.
50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals® is a registered trademark of Watson Health™You can also read
