Biz New Orleans December 2023

Where’s the Beef?

It’s at these new restaurants P. 14

Surviving Economic Uncertainty

Advice from a top financial planner P. 30

Top-tier Dining from Home

This meal service is like no other P. 58

Top

AP PHOTO/E VAN VUCCI

10 stories DECEMBER 2023

NO.4 LOUISIANA’S NEW GOVERNOR, JEFF LANDRY, WAS ONE OF THE BIG WINS THIS YEAR FOR STATE REPUBLICANS

DECEMBER EVERY ISSUE

PERSPECTIVES

06 EDITOR’S NOTE 08 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 10 ON THE WEB

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EDUCATION Two New Orleans universities share what they’re doing to get students handson experience in a variety of fields

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FROM THE LENS 58 WHY DIDN’T I THINK OF THAT? Want to experience top-tier restaurants from around the country right in your home?

Now you can, thanks to a unique subscription meal offering.

62 NEIGHBORHOOD GEM Plants, pots and neighborhood building all come together in this Algiers business 64 NEW ORLEANS 500 Philip Gunn, senior advisor at EisnerAmper

22 REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION Two new exciting projects in development

IN THE BIZ 14 DINING Where’s the beef?

Two new exciting steakhouses to check out and another on the way.

16 SPORTS Saints fans have a playoff run on their wish lists 18 ENTREPRENEUR “Ethical entrepreneurism” can benefit your bottom line, and it’s easier to do than you might think.

24 BANKING & FINANCE New Orleans’s cultural creators — what’s being done to give them a bigger piece of the pie?

28 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Preparing to mark a milestone year, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce looks back on its accomplishments and forward to the future with a new campaign.

30 GUEST How a value-based financial plan and mindfulness can help you navigate economic uncertainty

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GREAT WORKSPACES

Modernity meets efficiency at the downtown law offices of Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann.

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Top 10 Stories

The top business stories that affected Southeast Louisiana in 2023

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Publisher Todd Matherne EDITORIAL Editor Kimberley Singletary Art Director Sarah E.G. Majeste

2022 vs. 2023

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his is always a tricky issue to get out because we aim to highlight the top business stories of the year, but our print deadline means the year hasn’t finished when we have to make our decisions. It’s always a rush trying to make things as inclusive and relevant as possible, but there’s always going to be things we miss.

That being said, looking at last year’s list and comparing to this year’s, there’s definitely some similarities. The insurance crisis took our No. 2 spot last year, behind crime, but this year it moved to No. 1 but in a good way. This time the story was not just the problem, it was the multiple things that have been done, and are being done, in try to improve the situation.

Last year, the announcement of LCMC Health’s plans to acquire three hospitals from HCA Healthcare made the list. After some legal hurdles, this year, the deal went through.

On the flip side, last year Avondale Shipyard’s return made the list. This year, it’s proposed sale to Port of South Louisiana being put on hold is a top story.

And last year, the Mississippi River’s drop to record-low levels was a top story of the year.

This year, it was the dangers posed by a saltwater wedge moving its way up the river.

With finite space in the magazine, there’s no way to include every top story, so I’d like to highlight a few more here.

In 2023, we also saw the Port of New Orleans set a new monthly record for cruise passengers, along with the first sailing of cruise ship Disney Magic.

Digital Media Editor Kelly Massicot Associate News Editor Rich Collins

Perspective Writer Drew Hawkins Contributors Paige Davis, Nicole Dufour, Rebecca Gustafson, Ashley McLellan, Misty Millioto, Chris Price, Ross Regard, Poppy Tooker, Keith Twitchell

We saw Ochsner Health partner with MD Anderson to announce the creation of the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Southeastern Louisiana, and we saw LED and GNO, Inc. partner to create Metronome, a series of programs focused on growing the business of the New Orleans-area music industry.

We saw our own The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel’s Sazerac Bar named the Best Hotel Bar in America for the sixth year in a row by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice rankings. Plus — and being a parent of a teenager this excited me — we saw a New Orleans student, Dennis Barnes, set the record for most college scholarship offers ever received by a college bound senior in the country!

We’re seeing movement in some of the areas we struggle with most — crime, insurance, coastal erosion — amidst a lot of exciting announcements of things to come. Here’s to a peaceful, prosperous, productive 2024!

Thanks for reading,

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

SALES TEAM

A Busy Year

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s we close out the year, and the editorial team features the region’s top business stories, I look back at Renaissance Publishing’s year and reflect on our developments.

This year, we launched Biz Leaders — a small cohort of 12 people focused on growing professionally in their leadership journey.

In 2023, we hosted three cohort sessions, all with great reviews and impactful results. We have planned two sessions in the first quarter of 2024 and registration is filling up fast.

If you want to start your year off with awesome learning and impactful leadership growth, visit bizneworleans.com and click on “Leaders” to sign up.

This year, Biz New Orleans stepped up and became a sponsor of the Junior Achievement Biz Town, an excellent organization and program teaching young students about financial literacy. In July, we were excited bring people to Biz Town to honor our 2023 class of Biz New Orleans New and Notables.

Also this year, our Louisiana Life and Acadiana Profile magazines experienced tremendous growth. This team continues to win national awards from the International Regional Magazine Association (IRMA) and our readership and revenues continue to climb.

In New Orleans, we hosted record-breaking crowds at our New Orleans Bride magazine

KATE HENRY bridal shows, which signals the wedding business is growing locally. We also hosted an overflowing crowd at our annual New Orleans Home magazine Design Masters and Best of Home event, which showcases the beauty inside the area’s most desirable houses.

For 2024, we are looking ahead to a new website design for bizneworleans.com. Two years ago, we redesigned myneworleans.com and have experienced great growth in traffic engagement. A new design with enhanced back-end software will allow our editors to continue to deliver you award-winning news coverage and enhanced web tools.

Speaking of awards, did you know that Biz New Orleans has won a national award from The Alliance of Area Business Publishers (AABP) every year since its launch? Next year we will celebrate our 10th anniversary and look forward to a great celebration.

Merry Christmas and have a blessed New Year.

VP of Sales and Marketing (504) 830-7216 Kate@BizNewOrleans.com

MEGHAN SCHMITT Senior Account Executive (504) 830-7246 Meghan@BizNewOrleans.com

TODD MATHERNE CEO and Publisher Renaissance Publishing

ABBY PALOPOLI

START OFF YOUR NEW YEAR WITH BIZ LEADERS NEXT COHORT JANUARY 12 8

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Account Executive abby@bizneworleans.com (504) 830-7208

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ON THE WEB BIZNEWORLEANS.COM

THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY IS TALKING ON BIZNEWORLEANS.COM Catch all the latest news, plus original reporting, people on the move, videos, weekly podcast and blogs, digital editions of the magazines and daily Morning Biz and afternoon newsletters. If it’s important to business in southeast Louisiana, it’s at BizNewOrleans.com.

BIZ TALKS PODCAST

“It is an honor to offer this level of support to those who provide the soundtrack for our city, and it is our mission to grow this database to include artists and culture bearers from more genres.”

New Orleans is brimming with innovative minds, but there is a clear disparity when it comes to diversity within the life-science ecosystem. Our vision for this program builds on our successful efforts to nurture the biotech startup scene in New Orleans, and this grant will enable us to narrow the funding gap by connecting underrepresented business founders with dynamic sources of capital.

Kris Khalil, executive director of NOBIC, speaking on the news that the New Orleans BioInnovation Center and Xavier University of Louisiana received $495,000 in grant funding from JPMorgan Chase & Co. The investment will be used to launch the Advancing Diversity in Life-Sciences Entrepreneurship project, aimed at increasing access to capital for people who historically are underrepresented in the biosciences industry.

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EPISODE 173

The Latest from the Convention Center

President and General Manager of the New Orleans Ernest N Morial Convention Center Michael Sawaya discusses the latest in the $557 million in renovations taking place, an update on the anticipated mixed-use development River District, reception of the new Civil Rights Museum and the highlights from this year’s convention bookings.

EPISODE 172

Can Offshore Wind Help Save the Coast?

Walt Leger III, president and CEO of New Orleans & Company, speaking about a new partnership between New Orleans & Company and WWOZ to create an online compendium of New Orleans musicians called the Musician Database.

Simone Maloz, campaign director of Restore the Mississippi River Delta, talks about the growth potential for the offshore wind industry in the Gulf of Mexico, and how future wind energy revenue could help power the state’s coastal restoration efforts.

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IN THE BIZ

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SPORTS

ENTREPRENEUR

Saints fans have a playoff run on their wish lists

“Ethical entrepreneurism” can benefit your bottom line, and it’s easier to do than you might think.

DINING

Where’s the beef? Two new exciting steakhouses to check out and another on the way.

IN THE BIZ DINING

POPPY TOOKER has spent her life devoted to the cultural essence that food brings to Louisiana, a topic she explores weekly on her NPR-affiliated radio show, Louisiana Eats! From farmers markets to the homes and restaurants where our culinary traditions are revered and renewed, Poppy lends the voice of an insider to interested readers everywhere.

Where’s the Beef?

It’s definitely here, with two new exciting steakhouses to check out and another on the way.

BY POPPY TOOKER

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I L LU S T R AT I O N BY PADDY MILLS

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n the city where Ruth’s Chris’ sizzling steaks were born and neighborhood favorites from Crescent City to Charlie’s and the Steak Knife have fed New Orleanians for generations, I’m excited to share that there’s something new to chew.

Murat Nalcioglu brings many years of restaurant knowledge to Gaia, a “New Age” steakhouse on St. Charles Avenue that opened in late September. After 20 years in the hospitality business in Las Vegas, Dallas and Atlanta, Nalcioglu decided to call New Orleans home.

“I love this city. The culture and food are the rest.” The popular concept expanded to unlike anywhere else,” he said. “I’m honored to Bethesda, Maryland, and Arlington, Virginia, have the opportunity to add something substanbefore coming south to New Orleans. tial to the food scene here.”

Medium Rare’s three-course, prix fixe menu Named for a Greek goddess of the earth, Gaia includes a green salad dressed with Dijon introduces the city to a luxury experience that vinaigrette followed by classic steak frites and begins at the front door. Every detail is designed dessert, astonishingly all for less than $30. to dazzle inside Gaia’s intimate booths and And just as Bucher experienced in the tiny private dining areas. Dry-aging beef doubles as bistro in Paris, there are seconds. art, towering over a lighted, glowing marble bar.

“I don’t want you eating my steak cold” he While more interactive art lines the walls, the stated, explaining why more piping hot meat real theater takes place in the dining room. All and crispy fries are magically delivered without Gaia’s cuts are carved for diners right before prompting halfway through the meal. their eyes, including steaks grilled tableside in Cooked to order, the only cut Medium Rare butter and the showstopping gilded Tomahawk. serves is coulotte, a well-marbled, seldom Gaia sources Wagyu shipped directly from utilized ribeye cap that arrives sliced and Japan while other cuts are from the highest finished with a secret sauce that has stumped quality American prime. the competition for years. With hints of Besides steaks, the menu includes locally mustard, black pepper, and a mysterious umami, sourced Gulf seafood and deep purple mashed “It took us a year to develop,” said Bucher. potatoes straight from Peru. Whether your Sometime in the middle of next year, a third meal begins with a lychee and rose Nitro new steakhouse concept will call New Orleans Martini adorned in crushed, frozen rose petals, home thanks to local restaurateur Billy Blatty, or finishes with a lofty cotton candy sculpture who previously enlisted The Culinary Creative worthy of Marie Antoinette, Gaia offers an expeGroup’s consulting help in opening Sofia, his rience most New Orleans diners have never seen. downtown Italian eatery named Best New Further Uptown on Magazine Street, another Restaurant by New Orleans Magazine in 2019. newcomer, Medium Rare, has been offering a Their relationship blossomed, and earlier this completely different experience since opening year, Blatty merged his hospitality group with at the end of August.

Culinary Creative, making big plans to expand Many years ago, Mark Bucher experienced several of their popular brands here. true steak frites in a tiny Parisian bistro famous One of those brands, Denver’s A5 Steakhouse for just that: steak and fries as only the French has garnered a following for its fun and funky offer. It was an experience he never forgot, atmosphere, great steaks, and Asian-influenced inspiring the seasoned restaurateur to create sides and sauces, in barely two years. A New his own version in America.

Orleans incarnation of A5, located Bucher founded the Medium on Carondelet Street, will include a Rare brand in 2011 in Washington, raw bar featuring local seafood and Catch Poppy D.C., with simplicity as the key. innovative menu items like Chef Tooker on her radio “We make too many decisions Max Mackissock’s bacon-wrapped show, “Louisiana during a normal day,” he mused.

Wagyu meatloaf with curry ketchup.

Eats!” Saturdays “When you come for dinner, just New Orleans meat lovers, sharpen at 3 p.m. and Mondays at 8 p.m. tell us how you want your steak your knives! Beef, it’s what’s for on WWNO 89.9 FM. cooked and let us take care of dinner!T

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IN THE BIZ SPORTS

CHRIS PRICE is an award-winning journalist and public relations principal. When he’s not writing, he’s avid about music, the outdoors, and Saints, Ole Miss and Chelsea football.

Holiday Hopes

Saints fans have a playoff run on their wish lists

BY CHRIS PRICE

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Jordan, linebacker Demario Davis, and cornerback Paulson Adebo — along with rookie defensive tackle Bryan Bresee — have been consistent playmakers and fan favorites.

The biggest threat for this team has been and will be offensive production. Through early November, the team is averaging 21.7 points per game, which ranks 15th out of the league’s 32 teams. That’s better than last year’s average of 19.4, when the team had a revolving door at QB, but still almost a touchdown fewer than the 28.1 points per game the Saints averaged in Drew Brees’ 15 years leading the team.

New Orleans signed veteran signal caller Derek Carr to a four-year, $150 million deal before the season to bring some stability under center, but throughout the season, questions have arisen about offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael’s ability and whether or not he should lose his play-calling duties, if not his job.

Sure, the offensive line has had injury issues, players have been forced to shuffle into new positions, and, at times, they haven’t jelled enough to be a consistent force in pass and run blocking. Still, the team has more than enough firepower at the skill positions to be a contender.

The team has a trio of downfield receiving threats in wide receivers Michael Thomas, Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. They should be stretching the field to create soft spots in

I L LU S T R AT I O N BY PADDY MILLS

t’s the holiday season, and folks are thinking about the gifts and goodies they would like to receive over the course of 12 days or eight crazy nights.

Included in that number are Louisiana sports fans, who have specific hopes and dreams for their teams.

The New Orleans Saints are in the thick of the battle for the NFC South crown and a place in the NFL playoffs. It’s quite an accomplishment considering where the team was just a few weeks ago. But, in all honesty, with the talent on this roster — which is better than the Saints’ division rivals Atlanta, Carolina and Tampa Bay — this team was expected to be here.

Head Coach Dennis Allen is looking for his first winning season at the helm of an NFL team, and it appears he may get it this year. That accomplishment looks like it will come with the Saints returning to the postseason after missing the playoffs the past two years. How deep they go depends on how his coaching staff and the players come together over the remainder of the season.

The Saints’ defense — one of the best in the league — has carried the team. Through early November, it has given up an average of 19.0 points per game — seventh out of 32 — which is better than last season, when the unit was ninth in the NFL in average points allowed at 20.3 points per game. Defensive end Cam

opposing defenses, which would open opportunities for tight ends Juwan Johnson, Foster Moreau and Jimmy Graham to get involved.

A solid passing game is predicated on the team being able to run the ball, however, and more will be needed from running backs Alvin Kamara, Jamaal Williams — who led the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns last year but has been limited with a hamstring injury — and rookie Kendre Miller, the team’s third-round draft pick out of TCU who rushed for 1,399 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2022.

Fans are hoping the calendar change to December will mean more offensive production — namely, the ability to score touchdowns after sustaining the long, clock-eating drives needed to manufacture the points needed to top the opposition while giving the team’s defenders rest.

While Carr suffered a sprain to the AC joint in his throwing shoulder early in the season – which may have impacted his performance in subsequent games – it should be less aggravated now. Hopefully, that means he can start targeting his available arsenal on big passing plays.

Looking at the remainder of the season, the Saints play three home games — Lions (Dec. 3), Panthers (Dec. 10), and Giants (Dec. 17) — before hitting the road to play the Rams on Thursday Night Football (Dec. 21) and, with nine days rest, the Bucs, on New Year’s Eve. They’ll close the regular season in the Superdome against Atlanta on Jan. 7.

The start of 2023 season was frustrating for the Who Dat? Nation, but this team’s potential is apparent. There are some really good teams in the NFC, namely Philadelphia and San Francisco, that stand in the Saints’ way of a potential playoff run to the top of the conference, but in professional football, like all sports, a team can come together late in the season and play better than they have all year. Saints fans of all stripes are hoping now is the time for their team to make great strides. A strong run sure would make for even happier holidays. Now is the time. Geaux Saints, geaux! T

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IN THE BIZ ENTREPRENEUR

KEITH TWITCHELL spent 16 years running his own business before becoming president of the Committee for a Better New Orleans. He has observed, supported and participated in entrepreneurial ventures at the street, neighborhood, nonprofit, micro- and macro-business levels.

Good Guys Finish First “Ethical entrepreneurism” can benefit your bottom line, and it’s easier to do than you might think.

BY KEITH T WITCHELL

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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY. Most of the elements here are familiar, so it’s largely a matter of degree in terms of putting them into practice. The most obvious is being a business that recycles everything possible, and even encourages on-site employee recycling.

Reducing wastefulness — by using refillable water bottles and metal straws, or reusing paper for internal communications — is also part of this. Having staff volunteer days to support recycling efforts takes it one step further. While government recycling pickup programs in our area are limited, drop-off recycling is broader and requires only a small amount of extra effort.

Energy consumption is another major piece.

Keeping office or facility temperatures just comfortable enough; creating a culture where lights are always turned off when the room is vacant, electronics are powered down at the end of the day, and curtains or blinds are drawn across sun-facing windows — these all make a difference in reducing energy costs. Probably the top step up this ladder is installing solar panels, for which tax credits are available and which often pay for themselves; our regional weather patterns make solar particularly cost-effective.

SUSTAINABLE, LOCAL SOURCING. Buying from local vendors not only supports the regional economy, it reduces the environmental (and frequently monetary) costs of shipping. Being mindful of when to buy in large or small quantities, helps both sustainability and the bottom line. Vetting vendors for their own policies is

another aspect. When purchasing from companies farther away, especially internationally, including factors such potential suppliers’ labor and environmental practices (the Fair Trade movement) is part of the equation.

EMPLOYEES. While staffing costs are a major business expense, a core tenet of ethical entrepreneurism is knowing what constitutes a local living wage and paying all employees at least that much. It certainly leads to happier and more productive employees. Beyond that, establishing a safe, welcoming work environment is vital. Stepping up here can include benefits like offering child care, parental leave, good physical and mental health insurance, continuing education opportunities, etc. Partnering with other local businesses can make some of these options more affordable.

VOLUNTEERISM, PHILANTHROPY, INVESTING.

Supporting local nonprofits with time and money helps build stronger communities, which indirectly benefits businesses. Sometimes donations of extra supplies can be very helpful without being expensive. For startups to get heavily involved in this arena is asking a lot, but finding creative ways to engage helps build valuable exposure for a new business. When an enterprise matures to the point of investing in other ventures, the environmental and societal impacts of the companies should be considered.

Beyond the right thing to do, ethical entrepreneurism is good for business. Some aspects, such as reducing energy consumption and treating staff well, have direct, positive impacts on costs and profits. Many aspects provide opportunities for enhancing a company’s visibility and image, especially when supported by a good social media program. And, after all, stronger communities are more prosperous communities, with more money to spend with the businesses that help build them.T

I L LU S T R AT I O N BY PADDY MILLS

thical entrepreneurism” is yet another new business buzzword.

What exactly does it mean? What are its impacts on the entrepreneurial imperatives of business and financial success, and how does it apply in our area?

Let’s start with a personal bias: I think that many entrepreneurs launch their businesses because they have identified a problem and believe they have an innovative (and marketable) way to solve it. To me, this is inherently an ethical act. So, by definition, the vast majority of entrepreneurs are by nature ethical —and studies support this.

Ethical entrepreneurship takes this further, by proposing conscious attention to specific aspects of business operations. While grounded in environmentally friendly practices, it includes other important aspects. After doing a little research, here’s my take on some of the key components.

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PERSPECTIVES

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EDUCATION 22 REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION

Two exciting projects in development

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BANKING & FINANCE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

GUEST

New Orleans’s cultural creators — what’s being done to give them a bigger piece of the pie?

The New Orleans Chamber of Commerce looks back on its accomplishments and forward to the future.

How a value-based financial plan and mindfulness can help you navigate economic uncertainty.

Two New Orleans universities share what they’re doing to get students handson experience in a variety of fields.

PERSPECTIVES REAL ESTATE + CONSTRUCTION

RICH COLLINS is an Emmy Award-winning writer, musician and actor known for the Disney Channel TV series “Imagination Movers.” He covers New Orleans business for the Biz New Orleans website when he’s not performing on stages around town and worldwide.

In Development

Real movement on the former Six Flags amusement park and plans for a mixed-use riverfront park topped news this fall

BY RICH COLLINS

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n Oct. 25, developer Bayou Phoenix officially took control of the 227-acre site of the former Six Flags amusement park in New Orleans East. The lease-signing ceremony inspired cheers and applause from stakeholders during a meeting of the World Waterpark Association at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Now comes the hard part: raising a half-billion dollars and signing big-name tenants that can help convert the long-abandoned theme park into a collection of attractions that could include a water park, a youth sports facility, two hotels, an 8.5-acre man-made lake, a movie studio, an amphitheater and retail outlets.

The property was flooded during Hurricane Katrina and has been abandoned ever since, except for its occasional use as a backdrop for movies and TV shows such as 2013’s “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters” or “Project Power” in 2020.

Bayou Phoenix founder Troy Henry — who is partnered with construction company owner Thomas Tubre on the project — said he hasn’t secured funding or partners to operate the attractions, but now that the lease is signed, work can begin in earnest.

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“We are pleased after 30-plus months of pursuit to finally be able to get started on this transformational project,” Henry told Biz New Orleans.

The next step is to clean out the site, removing destroyed rides along the way, and to get to know the property better in the process.

City, state and federal sources are expected to contribute $100 million toward the development. The balance will come from private investors and loans.

The 50-year lease with the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority, which owns the land, includes development milestones. Bayou Phoenix, for instance, must have a sublease in place with an operator for at least one component of the project by Oct. 25, 2024.

Bayou Phoenix was selected to pursue the project in 2021 after a development group that included Drew Brees withdrew from the application process. Its annual rent is $1 a year, but the company estimates it will spend several million dollars just getting the project off the ground.

At the other end of town, Ben Jacobson and Casey Burka have announced the purchase of the Bisso Marine salvage yard located at the foot of Walnut Street just upriver from Audubon Park. They said they plan to invest tens of

millions of dollars of private capital with bank financing to convert the former marine industrial property, purchased from Bisso Marine for an undisclosed sum, into a mixed-use riverfront park called The Batture.

Jacobson and Burka, New Orleans natives and Uptown residents, said they have spent more than five years working to purchase the roughly 10-acre property, which is zoned for maritime industrial uses.

“For the past 170 years, the neighborhood has not had access to this land,” Jacobson said in a press release. “We want to open it up to the community — to bring it to life. We envision a space where families can get together, enjoy the river, let the kids run around on the great lawn and have a bite and a drink from some of the best local chefs and restaurants New Orleans has to offer.”

The Batture project is located on the river side of the levee along Leake Avenue, between Walnut and Lowerline streets. Jacobson and Burka hope to transform the industrial site into an “oasis” that integrates the energy of a mixed-use corridor with the ambiance of a riverfront park. They envision something akin to the Audubon Institute’s Audubon Riverfront Park (better known as “the Fly”) — which is just downriver — but with food and beverage sales and other mixed-use elements.

The developers said that, more than a century ago, the Bisso family envisioned hosting neighborhood dances and picnics on the site, which was just across the levee from a family-owned grocery store at the foot of Walnut Street.

Instead, the tract became home to later generations’ marine services businesses.

The Burkas plan to continue discussions with neighbors, civic leaders, business owners and elected officials to “ensure the project’s success and its positive impact on the community.” They said additional partners will be announced soon. They estimate the project will be complete in 2026.

Jacobson and Burka’s development company is Federated Historic Holdings.T

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PERSPECTIVES BANKING & FINANCE

DREW HAWKINS is a writer and journalist in New Orleans.

He’s the health equity reporter in the Gulf States Newsroom, a collaboration among public radio stations in Louisiana (WWNO and WRKF), Alabama (WBHM) and Mississippi (MPB-Mississippi Public Broadcasting) and NPR. He’s also the producer and host of Micro, a LitHub podcast for short but powerful writing.

Back to the Source

New Orleans’s cultural creators help attract people to the city and keep them here, but these creators don’t benefit like they should. What’s being done to change this?

BY DREW HAWKINS

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t the heart of New Orleans’ economy is a diverse and thriving cultural sector that encompasses music, food, art and heritage.

This cultural economy, though intangible in many ways, forms an essential part of the city’s identity and economic backbone — providing countless opportunities for local residents to showcase their talents and traditions to the world while driving economic growth.

“It’s clear that New Orleans culture is a massive driver in the economy of New Orleans,” said Ethan Ellestad, executive director of Music and Culture Coalition of New Orleans (MaCCNO).

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“It is the center of the multi-billion-dollar tourism industry, and for better or worse, right now that’s what’s driving our economy.”

One of MaCCNO’s primary missions is to advocate for artist rights, including fair wages, proper contracts and affordable access to performance venues. By providing legal resources and support, MaCCNO empowers artists to protect their interests in the world of business and finance. The organization acts as a bridge between cultural entrepreneurs and financial institutions. By fostering partnerships and advocating for the unique financial needs of cultural businesses and creators, the organization helps ensure that these enterprises have the financial support they need to thrive.

But Ellestad also said there’s a caveat to the premise that culture drives the economy here.

“Despite the billions the culture brings, we don’t see a lot of money actually coming down to the community itself,” Ellestad said. “A lot of that money is brought into the city, but [it is] not hitting the people that are actually creating the culture that brings people here. And so, for us, I think the key is how do we make sure those benefits really flow back into the people?

And how do you make sure the people that are creating their culture are really going to be the ones that drive the economy themselves?”

One way MaCCNO helps direct money produced by the cultural economy flow down to the creators is through the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, or NOTCF. MaCCNO partners with them as a fiscal agent.

As a nonprofit, NOTCF can’t award grants to individuals, so they send the grants to MaCCNO, which then works to distribute the funds to the individuals who apply for it .

“We’re trying to support the cultural community in a larger sense, not just musicians and group culture bearers, but also artists and street performers — anyone who’s self-identified as a cultural creator. The goal is to make sure that they’re able to meet some of their basic needs and stay here in the city.”

And while efforts to put more money into the hands of the people who drive the culture that drives the economy, Ellestead also said it would be beneficial to have more official representation of the cultural community in the city and in institutions designed to support the culture.

“There aren’t a lot of people that are cultural creators in leadership roles in a lot of these larger organizations,” he said. “You don’t have musicians. You don’t have small-venue owners.

You largely have big hotel owners and legacy restaurant owners in the leadership roles. New Orleans really needs to start to change that paradigm and getting people that are in these small businesses and the culture creators into leadership roles so they can direct the funds and make the industry more equitable.” T

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PERSPECTIVES EDUCATION

DID YOU KNOW? Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) was proposed by American psychologist David Kolb in 1984. Statistics have shown that it boasts a retention rate of 90%.

LEARNING

BY DOING Two New Orleans universities share what they’re doing to get students hands-on experience in a variety of fields.

BY DREW HAWKINS

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n order to master an instrument, you can’t just study music theory and memorize the notes and chords. It’s not enough to know where you place your fingers on a flute or read a book about how to engage with and respond to an audience. You have to learn it by doing it.

And in a city known across the world for its music, it’s only fitting that educational institutions in New Orleans are incorporating

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more experiential learning — a dynamic pedagogical practice that fosters and prioritizes hands-on, real-world experiences — into their approaches.

At the heart of experiential learning is the principle that students attain the most profound understanding when actively applying their classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.

This approach fosters a deeper understanding of subject matter and equips students with the practical skills needed for success in their careers

and in life. It transcends the confines of the classroom and encourages students to connect theory to practice, creating confident, adaptable and resourceful individuals.

“Experiential learning gives students the opportunity to directly apply the skills they are learning in the classroom,” said Xavier Cole, president of Loyola University. “Students engage in active, hands-on learning and reflect on these activities to help them understand the transformative nature of learning through experience. Experiential learning encourages a deeper understanding of subject matter than is possible through classroom study alone and builds students’ capacity for critical thinking and knowledge application.”

Loyola University has been a trailblazer in the integration of experiential learning into its academic programs. The institution understands the profound impact that experiential learning can have on students’ development and their contribution to the community.

“Experiential learning programs are carefully crafted by instructors and vetted by committees and the university,” Cole said. “For example, all service-learning courses must be approved by a committee that includes our service-learning director and experienced faculty who have actively been engaged in service learning for a period of time. These courses take careful planning to ensure their learning objectives match the service and that students are placed with agencies that can provide relevant experiences.”

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS

Service learning is one of the flagship programs at Loyola University. Students are paired with local community agencies in need of volunteers.

This connection between classroom knowledge and community needs ensures that students are actively engaged in addressing real-world challenges. Students in the Psychology and the Law course volunteered with the Orleans Public Defenders Office, gaining insights into the court

system and legal processes while providing valuable assistance to the local community.

“As part of their service, students learned to follow the court hearing and record data about what charges were filed and what bonds were set, as well as when alternatives to incarceration were offered and accepted by the court,” Cole said.

Additionally, students in a molecular genetics course volunteered with STEM NOLA, an organization that brings STEM opportunities to underserved populations, to develop and present a hands-on science demonstrations to STEM NOLA participants.

The university also provides experiential opportunities in psychology. Students in the Department of Psychological Sciences participate in clinical practicums, working with various mental health agencies in the New Orleans area.

This exposure allows them to shadow clinical psychologists, gaining hands-on experience in psychological assessment and therapy. Loyola’s commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice is evident in these initiatives.

“Because experiential learning is a high-impact practice for student learning, we consider it vitally important to our mission,” Cole said.

TULANE UNIVERSITY

Next door to Loyola, Tulane University is also making green waves in the field of experiential learning. The university recognizes that students need more than just classroom knowledge; they need practical skills and experiences that prepare them for the ever-evolving job market.

As David Thompson, professor of practice and finance at Tulane, says, sometimes it’s all about making the material stick to students.

“In my popular, senior-level Venture Capital and Private Equity class, I often liken the course to that of plumbing school. Mild scatological humor always seems to get their attention,” Thompson said. “By this point in their education, students have cultivated knowledge in business theory and have developed a ‘chest full of tools;’ however, they lack any real notion on how best to apply those tools. They may know all the theory and science that surrounds the construction and the function of a toilet, but they have never built one or fixed one — although I’m quite sure they have used one!”

Thompson is a 30-year veteran of the investment and capital markets world, and uses his knowledge and experience (and sense of humor) to show students which tools to use and the context in which to use them. He provides these experiential lessons by relaying his own experiences, bringing in expert speakers, and staging a “simulated investment conference.” He’s also partnering with

“

Experiential learning gives students the opportunity to directly apply the skills they are learning in the classroom. Students engage in active, hands-on learning, and reflect on these activities to help them understand the transformative nature of learning through experience.

”

Xavier Cole, president of Loyola University

the Tulane Innovation Institute (TUII) for student-centered investment projects in a “real world” setting that will allow them the opportunity to exercise those skills.

Another prominent program at Tulane is the capstone course, in which students collaborate with local and national companies to work on well-defined projects that deliver actionable results. These experiences often culminate in presentations to company executives, providing students with valuable real-world feedback.

“Each participating professor is either a current or past business leader, bringing a wealth of knowledge and insight showcasing how analysis translates into practical, actionable, and measurable activities that can improve any type of organization,” Thompson said.

The Burkenroad Reports program at Tulane’s A.B. Freeman School of Business — run by

professor Peter Ricchiuti — is another impressive initiative, enabling students to research, write and publish on publicly traded companies, equipping them with the skills and knowledge sought after by employers. In fact, Thompson said his previous employer almost exclusively hired Burkenroad students as junior analysts, “because we knew they were trained and ready to go.”

Tulane’s School of Liberal Arts also offers experiential learning opportunities. Students in the art department interact with working artists and participate in critical reviews, receiving constructive feedback on their work.

Anthropology students have the opportunity to conduct research in Costa Rica, contributing to the field’s body of knowledge. These programs exemplify the university’s commitment to nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving through hands-on experience.

The success of experiential learning programs hinges on meticulous planning, coordination and integration with the academic curriculum. At Loyola, a committee approves service-learning courses, ensuring alignment with student learning objectives and community needs. Students’ assessments are designed to encourage reflection on their experiences and the synthesis of these experiences with classroom learning.

Tulane adopts a similar approach, with faculty collaborating with external organizations to design experiential learning events.

These collaborations help create meaningful experiences that equip students with practical skills and the ability to adapt to the complexities of the business world.

Experiential learning is not just an educational concept; it’s a transformative approach that empowers students to become proactive, confident learners. Loyola and Tulane are two universities leading the way in providing students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their understanding, skills and readiness for the workforce.

As the world continues to change and evolve, experiential learning will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders, thinkers and problem solvers in New Orleans and beyond. It’s a commitment to learning by doing, bridging the gap between theory and practice, and fostering a deeper, more impactful form of education. In doing so, these institutions are setting the stage for a brighter future for students and the wider community. The impact of experiential learning extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of education and the workforce in the Big Easy. T

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PERSPECTIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Decades of Devotion

Preparing to mark a milestone year, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce looks back on its accomplishments and to the future with a new campaign.

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We understand that a connected business community is a stronger one. With that in mind, the chamber hosts more than 75 networking events annually. Attendees share that our events are a friendly, welcoming environment where our staff and volunteers cultivate and foster productive networking. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime member, you’ll find a sense of belonging that’s hard to match.

The chamber collaborates with and supports our local economic development partners including GNO, Inc., New Orleans Business Alliance and Downtown Development District to create an environment where businesses can thrive. We partner with other local organizations and co-host events to bring people and businesses together. This year, we united with other chambers of commerce across Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana to form a united front called the I-10 Gulf Coast Chamber Coalition.

ADVOCATE

The Chamber also serves as a unified voice of the business community to provide a powerful influence on local, state, and federal policies and regulations. We promote economic growth and prosperity and work to create a business-friendly environment that encourages entrepreneurship, job creation and investment.

It’s critical that businesses have access to resources, information and opportunities that they otherwise may not be informed of, and we serve as that source.

AMPLIFY

The Chamber will host its second annual Washington Mardi Gras event in 2024, gathering business, civic and governmental leaders in the nation’s capital where more than 2,000 people come together to advocate for the collective interests of Louisiana. This year, our CEO participated in a D.C. fly-in to present topics of concern and ideas for change to the federal delegation. The fly-in focused on five areas, including disaster response and recovery, flood insurance, coastal protection issues, fisheries, and public safety. Plans are also underway to host a New Orleans Chamber Day at our state Capitol to provide our members with the opportunity to learn about the legislative process and status of legislation critical to Orleans Parish.

ELEVATE

Advocacy goes beyond business interests. Public safety, infrastructure, workforce development, housing, education, healthcare, sustainability, accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion are all issues that affect the overall quality of life for the people who live and work in New Orleans.

We are proud members of the NOLA Coalition, spearheaded by GNO, Inc., to harness the collective resources of the community to reduce violence and drive generational change.

BUSINESSES BELONG HERE

We believe businesses belong here and invite them to invest in Chamber membership to become a part of a group of like-minded professionals focused on the betterment of our community. Together we can create a thriving business ecosystem that continues to make an impact for years to come. Find out more at neworleanschamber.org. T

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significant milestone awaits the Ne w O r l e a n s C h a m b e r o f Commerce in 2024: 20 years of dedicated service to the business community of Greater New Orleans. Our 20th anniversary is an occasion to commemorate our journey and contributions while sharing our vision for a future full of impact. For two decades, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce has been the catalyst behind countless connections, partnerships, and collaborations.

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As we evaluate what the next 20 years will look like for the Chamber, strategic plans are underway to continue the growth of our network because local businesses are the backbone of a strong economy and the New Orleans way of life.

In time for our 20th anniversary, we will launch a Businesses Belong Here campaign to advance collaboration and partnerships, advocate for an environment where businesses can prosper, amplify the voice of the business community and support an elevated quality of life.

COLLABORATE

BY PAIGE DAVIS

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PAIGE DAVIS is the director of development for the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce. With a network of more than 1,200 member businesses, the Chamber is a driving force in the Greater New Orleans business community. She may be reached at (504) 799-4260 or paige@neworleanschamber.org.

PERSPECTIVE GUEST

REBECCA M. GUSTAFSON, CFP, MSFP, AEP, ChFC, CLU, CAP, RICP, CASL, LUTCF, CLTC is an estate and business planning specialist with Northwestern Mutual. She can be reached at (985) 290-6745.

Handling Economic Uncertainty How a value-based financial plan and mindfulness can help you navigate economic uncertainty.

BY REBECCA GUSTAFSON

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In an era where market fluctuations are a regular occurrence, having a financial plan in place that not only safeguards your financial future but also nurtures your overall well-being is crucial.

According to the same study by Northwestern Mutual, 36% of Americans say uncertainty about their finances keep them up at night at least monthly. However, the study indicates that those who work with a financial advisor and who identify as a disciplined planner are more likely to feel confident in other areas of their personal and professional life.

Value-based financial planning involves working with a value-based financial planner to align your financial goals with your core values. Beyond just accumulating wealth, I see this approach as achieving a balance between your present needs, future aspirations and the legacy you wish to leave behind. A value-based financial planner can work with you to make thoughtful decisions that both honor your priorities and help you work toward your goals, while anticipating market fluctuations. You can expect a value-based financial planner to ask questions that extend beyond your current financial situation, including: • What are your earliest memories with money?

• What core values and beliefs are important to you?

• Do you have any charitable or philanthropic goals?

• What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your family?

• If money wasn’t a factor, how would you choose to spend your time and who would you spend it with?

• How do you think your lifestyle will change as you enter this new life phase (i.e. having children, becoming an empty nester, being retired)?

MINDFULNESS IN FINANCIAL PLANNING

Mindfulness complements a value-based approach to financial planning. It encourages

you to stay present, emotionally balanced and focused on your financial objectives. There are small things you can do regularly to create mindfulness in financial planning.

• Regular budget check-in: Carving out dedicated time to review your spending can help you stay present with your current financial state and drive accountability with your longterm financial planning. Implementing regular check-ins can also eliminate some of the fear associated with checking your spending and can also lead to more thoughtful purchasing.

• Gratitude journaling: Expressing gratitude is a great way to increase purpose-driven spending. While journaling is not going to be the solution to all your financial worries, it’s a great step to increase mindfulness and improve your mental well-being. Gratitude journaling can also help you recognize which activities or purchases bring you joy to ensure your cash flow aligns with your values.

• Taking a purchase pause: Oftentimes, consumer purchases are driven by emotions rather than by intentionality. By taking a few moments to consider if this purchase fits into your financial plan, you can potentially avoid impulse spending.

• Viewing your plan with foresight: Having annual financial reviews to see how your current financial habits and strategies are impacting your long-term goals and dreams can help reduce the stress of the short-term uncertainty that we see in the market and economy.

Although experts can try to predict the fluctuations of the economy, it’s impossible to know with full certainty what the economy will look like in the future. This uncertainty underscores the importance of implementing this redefined approach to wealth management — the synergy between value-based financial planning and mindfulness offers a powerful shield against economic volatility. In these unpredictable times, this holistic approach to financial planning is not just beneficial, it’s essential for your financial well-being and peace of mind.

For more information, please visit beckygustafson.nm.com. T

I L LU S T R AT I O N BY S.E. GEORGE

ver the last few years, economic uncertainty has dominated the thoughts and concerns of families across the nation. In response, Americans have been forced to make a wide array of adjustments, both small and large, to their financial priorities and choices.

These findings were confirmed in a recent study by Northwestern Mutual exploring Americans’ outlook on the current state of the economy and how economic uncertainty has influenced their financial choices, with 64% of respondents reporting cutting costs and 41% admitting to postponing significant expenses until the economy regains its stability.

As a financial planner, my goal is to empower individuals to navigate economic turbulence without uprooting their lives by reimagining wealth during economic uncertainty. This concept encompasses a dynamic value-based approach to financial planning that incorporates mindfulness into financial decision-making, helping build financial confidence and contentment as a result.

THE IMPORTANCE OF VALUE-BASED FINANCIAL PLANNING

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top stor

DID YOU KNOW?

LAST YEAR AT THIS TIME, we were all dealing with a lot. Our 2022 top story of the year was crime — not a surprise as New Orleans had officially claimed the title of “Murder Capital of the Country.”

We were also still fresh off a string of hurricanes and facing the reality of skyrocketing insurance rates — our No. 2 story for the year.

In the closing of last year’s intro to the top stories of the year, we ended with the hope that in 2023 our state would be energized “to tackle the issues that are to come and find the opportunity that lies within.”

The good news is, we’re seeing evidence of that happening.

Unlike in 2022, most of our top stories this year are those of action, not devastation. We’re seeing new legislation and government funded programs to address our insurance crisis, the launch of a $3 billion project aimed at rebuilding our disappearing coastline, and another mixed-use development project with the potential of bringing more than $1 billion to our local economy by realizing the potential of our long-neglected riverfront.

We’re seeing announcements of new railway projects to both the east and west, along with movement to diversify our oil and gas industry into wind, and so much more.

In 2023 we saw a lot of strong beginnings. Going forward, may be build on them, and continue to make our region into the place we know it can be.

ries

These organizations celebrated a big anniversary in 2023: ­­ — 130 Commanders Palace 40 Copelands 40 CrescentCare 115 Fidelity Bank 40 French Quarter Fest 40 Habitat for Humanity New Orleans 10 Impetus 40 Lakefront Arena 100 Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association (LMOGA) 10 Ochsner Eat Fit 10 Spirit Airlines 10 Valbridge Property Advisors 85 Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents & Associates (VCPORA)

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State Legislation Takes Aim at Insurance Crisis

01 IN FEBRUARY, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards called for a special legislative session to address the state’s property insurance crisis. During the session, insurance commissioner Jim Donelon — who announced in March that he would not be seeking reelection — asked the Legislature to allocate at least $45 million for a newly created incentive fund aimed at luring insurance firms to Louisiana.

Under the $45 million funding bill — which easily passed the House and Senate — qualified companies can be awarded grants between $2 million and $10 million. In return, those insurers must provide 100% matching funds for the grant.

In only two years, 2020 and 2021, Louisiana was hit by four hurricanes — two Category 4 hurricanes, one Category 3 and a Category 2. In the wake of a flood of claims, as of July 2023, 34

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about a dozen insurance companies had failed, and about another dozen stopped writing in the state. Those property owners who could not secure insurance were pushed to Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Company — the state-run insurance company of last resort — which saw its number of policies almost triple to over 130,000.

Donelon has said 10 insurers are interested in participating in the program, including seven already operating in Louisiana. While the commissioner said he can’t guarantee that the program will decrease premiums, he hopes it will “stabilize” the market.

While incentivizing insurers, the state also took action this year to start to lower risk. In

October the state began offering the first group of grants of up to $10,000 per property to help owners repair or replace their roof with an upgraded “fortified” roof. Multiple rounds of grants were offered on a first-come, first-served, basis. The state has set aside $30 million for the program this year. The goal is to lower the number of policies held by Louisiana Citizens, draw more insurers to the state and help owners secure lower rates. Under a new state law, insurance providers are now required to offer discounted rates to any property with a fortified roof.

Multiple new laws were also passed statewide this year to assist property owners with damage claims after a storm. Among them is

OPENED ­­ — St. Tammany Corp. and Crosby Development — 919-acre Gulf South Commerce Park in St. Tammany Parish The National WWII Museum — Capstone Liberation Pavilion, final permanent exhibit hall Caesars Superdome — first phase of $500 million renovations New Orleans Public Belt Railroad — completed France Road Railyard West Jefferson Medical Center — renovated atrium as part of ongoing $86 million renovation Audubon Nature Institute — opened reimagined Audubon Aquarium/ Insectarium Poydras Home — unveiled $23 million expansion I-10 Flyover Ramp to MSY

one that requires insurers to provide hurricane, wind and hail deductibles when they propose a policy, while another requires all insurers to provide a catastrophe response plan to do business in Louisiana. All insurance companies, including health maintenance organizations (HMOs), will now have to provide detailed plans addressing how they will send adjusters into the field after a disaster and where they will operate if their offices are impacted.

Insurers must now also offer additional living expense coverage for homeowners who suffer a total loss from a storm or insured peril.

Qualifying policyholders will now receive three months of increased living expenses. — Misty Millioto

Debris and electrical wires are piled up in a front yard in Chauvin, Louisiana following Hurricane Ida. A $45 million funding bill passed this year to address soaring homeowners insurance rates in hurricane-battered Louisiana. (AP Photo/ Jessie Wardarski)

2 Mid-Barataria Diversion Project Launched Amid Doubts and Controversy After years of planning and hearings – not to mention opposition and controversy – the nearly $3 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project finally broke ground in August.

Located in Plaquemines Parish on the west bank of the Mississippi River, the project aims to create 20 to 40 miles of new wetlands over the next half-century.

The largest attempt yet to rebuild South Louisiana’s disappearing coastline, the diversion essentially recreates the natural processes that built the river delta in the first place.

Thousands of gallons of muddy water from the Mississippi that would otherwise flow straight to the Gulf of Mexico will be diverted toward Barataria Bay, depositing sediment along the way to replenish lost land.

While no one doubts that restoring the wetlands is essential to the survival of Southeast Louisiana, and the Barataria Bay area has seen some of the greatest land loss anywhere along the coast, opposition to the project has come from a variety of sources, for a variety of reasons. This starts with the technology itself, which state officials acknowledge is new and unproven.

While state and Army Corps of Engineers personnel have expressed confidence that the new approach will work, opponents suggest that other,

more proven methods would be preferable and have fewer negative impacts.

Techniques such as pumping water through pipelines directly to areas targeted for land rebuilding and building barrier islands to reduce wave erosion have had positive effects in shorter time frames. They have not, however, worked on the scale envisioned for the sediment diversion.

Skeptics counter that ongoing factors such as climate-induced sea-level rise and land subsidence call into question the net amount of new land that will actually be created.

All involved acknowledge that there will be negative economic, cultural and environmental impacts. Diverting fresh water from the Mississippi will reduce the amount of salt in the Barataria Bay water. Most of the bottlenose dolphin population in this area is expected to perish because of this, and there will be severe impacts on sea turtles, birds, fish and shellfish.

The last two are causing the most controversy. Fishermen and oystermen fear the loss of their livelihoods, a lifestyle that in many cases goes back generations. Louisiana has committed $10 million to assist these individuals in adjusting to the changes, but millions more may need to be spent on local infrastructure, such as roadways, that could become vulnerable to new flooding as land is rebuilt.

Nevertheless, the Mid-Barataria project is moving forward.

While it may be a huge roll of the dice, coastal land loss is an existential threat to the greater New Orleans region. Big problems often require big — and sometimes risky — solutions.

— KEITH TWITCHELL

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The Rise of The River District

FOR NEARLY 20 YEARS, the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority has sought viable development options for a stretch of low-density riverfront upriver from the Crescent City Connection.

Closure for this quest finally came in the latter part of 2022, when the authority approved the master development plan presented by River District Neighborhood Investors, LLC (RDNI), involving an extensive mixed-use residential and commercial project called River District.

The project, touted as a “once-in-a-lifetime boost” for the city and state economy, promises big things, including a projected $43 million in new annual net tax revenues, more than $1 billion for the local economy and an estimated 6,000 permanent jobs.

Linking the Warehouse and Lower Garden Districts with the Riverfront and Convention Center, the River District features several residential formats, including 900 condos and apartment units, half of which will offer affordable and workforce housing for hospitality and entertainment industry employees. The project will also provide retail space, hotels, restaurants, services and entertainment options.

Composed of what RDNI’s website calls “a diverse, talented, and well-capitalized group of development partners with deep local roots,” the organization has committed to getting at least 30% participation from small and emerging businesses (SEB) and disadvantaged business enterprises (DBE) during the project’s development, construction and design.

“This is a major milestone for all of us, as this partnership and project development plan will create hundreds of new jobs while providing additional business opportunities to small, emerging and disadvantaged businesses

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4 enterprises in our community,” said Authority President Jerry Reyes.

The project gained momentum this year with several new developments announced, including a planned $40 million Topgolf location. Slated to open in January 2025, the sports and entertainment venue is expected to generate up to 400-450 new jobs.

In September, meanwhile, Shell’s Gulf of Mexico operations announced it would anchor the district’s commercial office space with a

142,000-square-foot, multi-floor office building scheduled to open in late 2024 or early 2025.

Located at the corner of Henderson and Euterpe streets on Convention Center Boulevard, it will serve as Shell’s Gulf of Mexico operations headquarters and accommodate approximately 850 employees. A significant win for local real estate, the Shell River District location has a 12-year lease and is the first Class A office building to be constructed in the city since 1989. — Nicole Dufour

A Big Year for Louisiana Republicans After two terms under Democrat Gov. John Bel Edwards, on Oct. 14 Republican Jeff Landry was declared the winner of Louisiana’s governor’s race. With more than half the votes, Landry avoided a runoff and won the race outright, becoming the state’s 57th governor.

Landry has served as the state’s attorney general since 2016. He announced his bid for governor in October 2022, and just a month later he received an uncommon early endorsement from the state’s Republican Party before any other GOP candidate had entered the race — a move fellow Republican Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said looked “more like communist China than the Louisiana we know and love.”

LOUISIANA-BASED nonprofit system

LCMC Health first announced plans to acquire three Tulane University-affiliated hospitals — Tulane Medical Center, Lakeview Regional Medical Center and Tulane Lakeside Hospital — from HCA Healthcare in 2022.

The Federal Trade Commission expressed concerns about the deal, as it could yield a duopoly in the New Orleans area by increasing LCMC’s local market share to 55%. The FTC wanted to force the health system to apply for approval from federal regulators, but LCMC got a green light for the acquisition and merger from the state attorney general’s office. LCMC then sued the

FTC in federal court to assert its ability to move forward with the integration.

On Sept. 27, the District Court of the Eastern District of Louisiana ruled in favor of the purchase, adding its approval to that of the Louisiana Department of Justice and Louisiana legislators.

LCMC plans to move doctors from Tulane Medical Center, which will be transitioned into a teaching facility, to East Jefferson General Hospital and University Medical Center New Orleans (UMCNO). The health system will keep a freestanding emergency room onsite.

“We are pleased to announce that the District Court has recognized the value of our partnership with Tulane

LCMC Acquires Three Tulane UniversityAffiliated Hospitals, Bringing New Orleans’ Healthcare Market Down to Two Players

Convention Center Boulevard (Architect Rendering)

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Shawn Wilson, the former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and the sole major Democratic candidate, was the second runner-up in a race that saw the lowest voter turnout in more than a decade. In New Orleans, only 27% of eligible voters cast a vote — lower than the 32.7% of the state as a whole.

“The citizens of Louisiana spoke, or didn’t speak, and made a decision,” said Wilson in his concession speech.

In his new role, Landry, a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, will lead a state with a Republican supermajority in both chambers of its Legislature.

Moving forward, Landry has announced the formation of 14 transition councils to provide policy recommendations on topics statewide including the environment, infrastructure and education, but included

University and upheld the State of Louisiana’s approval,” said LCMC Health CEO Greg Feirn in a statement.

“Earlier this year, LCMC Health and the Attorney General Jeff Landry took a strong stance by taking legal action to safeguard this significant collaboration.

This partnership underwent a thorough review and approval from the Louisiana Department of Justice, which has been validated by the court’s decision.”

is a New Orleans council that will specifically address the city’s issues and will be headed by former Bollinger Shipyards CEO Boysie Bollinger.

While one Louisiana Republican reclaimed the governor’s seat for his party, only 11 days later, another was elected as speaker of the U.S. House.

Following more than three weeks of fighting within the GOP, Rep. Mike Johnson received unanimous support from his party. Fellow Louisianan and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise had been a contender for the position but dropped out after failing to secure enough support.

Currently serving a fourth term in Congress representing Louisiana’s fourth congressional district, Johnson is also a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump and played a major role in his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, filing a brief in a lawsuit

The integration of Tulane University’s facilities with its new parent system will proceed through 2024, according to the organizations. Operations will continue as normal during that time and all employees will continue to have jobs with LCMC. LCMC said it plans to transition “the majority of services” at the 235-bed Tulane Medical Center over to LCMC’s East Jefferson General Hospital and UMCNO. The deal comes with a $150 million price tag and, according to LCMC, will be accompanied by a $220 million initial capital investment into the hospitals.

LCMC Health said the deal will expand access to care and increase career opportunities.

“With this transformational partnership, we can build on our strong history of collaboration with our academic partners, Tulane University and Louisiana State University, to do more for our patients, communities and region together than would be possible as separate organizations,” Feirn said. “By joining forces, we will increase access to comprehensive and specialty care across our region, ensuring all our patients and communities receive extraordinary care, right here at home.”

LCMC was established in 2009 and currently manages six hospitals across the New Orleans area. The acquisition will bring its total to nine. — Misty Millioto

seeking to overturn the results, which was quickly thrown out by the U.S. Supreme Court. Following the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, he voted against certifying President Joe Biden’s win.

A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues and a devoted evangelical Christian, Johnson, in his first act in Congress, introduced a bill that includes $14.3 billion in emergency funding for Israel but is tied to rescinding the same amount of IRS funding from the Inflation Reduction Act that Biden signed last year. — KIM SINGLETARY

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Offshore Wind Opportunity Begins to Blow Our Way In a state that has long been trying to diversify from its reliance on the hospitality and oil and gas sectors, the opportunities with an emerging wind sector have brought excitement.

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards approved the state’s first Climate Action Plan in early 2022. The plan includes a goal of 5gw of offshore wind power by 2035. In March 2023, the Biden administration announced its strategy aimed at providing 30gw of offshore wind by 2030. These ambitious goals have spawned movement in the industry.

Economic development leader GNO, Inc., has been an early and fervent

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supporter of building up the offshore wind industry, pointing out that in a 2020 report, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) ranked Louisiana fourth in state offshore technical wind potential. The organization has created the GNOwind Alliance, a group composed of more than 250 companies and organizations.

“The existing Gulf of Mexico oil and gas supply chain, workforce and port infrastructure represent unique advantages to a potential offshore wind hub,” explained Sam Eaton, CEO of German multinational energy company RWE offshore holdings LLC, in a press release.

In March of this year, Entergy announced it was partnering with RWE to analyze the Gulf of Mexico offshore wind market to evaluate the delivery of clean energy from offshore wind to industrial customers in Texas and Louisiana.

Texas currently leads the nation in electricity generated by wind.

Along with oil rig supply ships, Louisiana shipbuilding giant Edison Chouest Offshore announced in early April that it was assembling 260-footlong ship called Eco Edison in coastal Terrebonne Parish. When completed next year for Ørsted — a Danish firm that builds and operates wind farms worldwide — the ship will house U.S. offshore wind technicians and their tools as they run and maintain wind farms in the Northeast.

On Aug. 29, the first-ever Gulf of Mexico offshore wind lease sale

NOTABLE RENOVATIONS/ EXPANSIONS

ANNOUNCED/ BROKEN GROUND ­­ — Kindle Energy — broke ground on $750 million electricity generation plant in Iberville Parish MKS Plastics — $14 million to double the size of its production facility in Tangipahoa Parish

07 Two Big Railroad Announcements

Loop Linen Service — building $15 million commercial laundry facility in Bridge City City of New Orleans — secured $24.6 million to redevelop Lincoln Beach CrescentCare — broke ground on new $21.6 million Mid-City location Hynes Charter School and University of New Orleans — broke ground $28 million Hynes-UNO campus

auctioned off three tracts of federal waters for wind energy generation.

Only two companies participated and only one tract received any bids.

RWE Offshore US ended up winning a 102,000 tract off the coast of Lake Charles for $5.6 million.

“Today’s auction results show the important role state public policy plays in offshore wind market development,” said Luke Jeanfreau of the Business Network for Offshore Wind, an organization formed to aid the development of offshore wind, noting a lack of mandates for renewable energy in the state. Jeanfreau added, however, that “Gulf expertise in offshore construction is unparalleled, and their innovative solutions will continue to drive the U.S. and global offshore wind industry forward.” — KIM SINGLETARY

IN SEPTEMBER, the Federal Railroad Administration authorized $178.4 million in funding to restore passenger rail service along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The grant will be used to improve tracks and build a new platform in Mobile, Alabama.

The decision means Gulf Coast passenger rail service, which has been suspended since 2005, could come as soon as the first quarter of 2024.

“This is a significant milestone, representing years of dedicated efforts to reconnect our communities after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina,” said U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss, in a press release. “Restoring passenger rail service will create jobs, improve quality of life and offer a convenient travel option for tourists, contributing to our region’s economic growth and vitality.”

The Southern Rail Commission — led by 15 gubernatorially appointed commissioners representing Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi — is committed to establishing twice daily, round-trip passenger rail service between New Orleans and Mobile with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi and Pascagoula. Its long-

term goal also includes extending passenger rail service to Orlando.

On Oct. 26, more good news was announced for the future of New Orleans rail access when Gov. John Bel Edwards was joined by representatives from the Department of Transportation and Development and Amtrak for the signing of a service development agreement that will start the process of returning passenger rail service back between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The last passenger train between the two cities was discontinued in November 1969.

The new route will eventually connect to the New Orleans-to-Mobile corridor projected to open in 2024.

According to the agreement, passenger service could start as early as 2027. Amtrak will use tracks currently in place along the I-10 corridor.

“An Amtrak line connecting Louisiana’s capital to the largest metropolitan area in the state will have immense economic benefits for both cities and the parishes in between,” said Gov. Edwards.

“Not only will this service potentially reduce the number of vehicles on the roadways which will result in less congestion, but it will also connect communities through employment opportunities and allow for more transportation options for festivals, sporting events, and concerts.”

The currently planned route will include two stops in Baton Rouge, along with stops in Gonzales, LaPlace, New Orleans International Airport, Jefferson Parish and the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

The initial plan is for one round trip daily, expanding to two daily round trips later, pending evaluation of operations and potential railroad improvement needs.

Additional round trips could be introduced in the future. — Misty Millioto

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08 The Saltwater Wedge Wake-Up Call

NEW PIPE REPLACEMENT PLANS are underway

following the recent saltwater threat from the Gulf of Mexico, which exposed critical issues to New Orleans’ and other Louisiana cities’ water supplies.

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For the second year in a row, the hot and dry conditions of Louisiana’s summer have allowed saltwater to creep inland. This poses a threat not only to water intake plants but to New Orleans’ entire water supply and piping. New Orleans’ water supply is almost entirely dependent upon the two Mississippi River intakes on the east and west banks of the river.

The west bank intake pumps up to 15 million gallons a day, while the east bank intake pumps up to 150 gallons a day. While initial forecasts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers predicted the saltwater would affect New Orleans in October, the threat seems to have abated at this time, with new forecasts predicting that water intake facilities are safe this year unless something drastic happens.

However, Jefferson and Orleans parish officials are not taking the situation lightly, as the threat of higher salt levels to New Orleans’ drinking water supply poses potentially significant issues to the thousands of lead pipes throughout the city.

If mass amounts of saltwater were ever to make it to the river intake systems, it would cause salt levels to rise in New Orleans and the surrounding areas depending on these intakes and water supplies.

The real problem is what the salt levels can do to lead pipes. Extra salt within the processed water can easily corrode lead pipes. This corrosion leads to unsafe lead levels in the drinking water that flows throughout these pipes. The city has also been battling with leaking water mains for decades, furthering complications.

The possibility of higher salt content in the drinking supply could lead to a major crisis within the city. Luckily, $1.2 billion in funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have been allocated from the federal government to replace lead pipes around the country.

In an October BizTalks podcast episode, Ghassan Korban, executive director of Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans, said the city should receive a fair amount of this funding due to the high levels of lead pipes within the city.

S&WB plans to inspect every pipe to determine whether or not it needs to be replaced by the end of 2024 and will begin the replacement process at the start of 2025.

The plan encompasses not only the main waterlines within the city but also the private portion of lead lines, such as homeowners’ pipes. The main goal of this pipe replacement campaign is to ensure a better, healthier future for the residents of New Orleans. — Ross Regard

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Massive Avondale Redevelopment Still Up in the Air

Entergy Proposes “Operation Gridiron” and Sells its Gas Business

Dredging operations to build an underwater sill are seen in Plaquemines Parish on Tuesday, Sept.

26, 2023. The sill was crafted to address the saltwater wedge slowly moving upriver from the Gulf of Mexico due to the unusually low water level in the river. (AP Photo/ Gerald Herbert)

On Oct. 17, Entergy New Orleans announced that it was sending its “Operation Gridiron” proposal to the New Orleans City Council for review. The $1 billion power infrastructure program seeks to make the city’s grid stronger to withstand more frequent, stronger storms.

The proposal includes many projects across the city over the coming decade that will allow Entergy New Orleans to keep the lights on longer when a storm hits, and to restore power more quickly. If the proposal is approved, Operation Gridiron will provide New Orleans with “one of the most storm-ready power infrastructures in the United States,” according to a spokesperson for the utility.

Part of the proposal includes upgrading thousands of utility poles to withstand winds of up to 150 mph and hardening 650 miles of power lines.

In so doing, Entergy New Orleans says it can reduce outage frequency and duration, saving customers millions of dollars.

Meanwhile, in October the Biden administration — in the largest federal investment ever in grid infrastructure — announced it was

handing out $3.5 billion to 58 projects across the country — including $55 million to Entergy New Orleans — to strengthen electric grid resilience as extreme weather continues to strain the nation’s aging transmission systems.

Among the projects to be funded include $249 million each for rural areas in Georgia and Louisiana.

In Louisiana, two projects will focus on helping disadvantaged communities withstand extreme weather and develop microgrids to work with local utilities and back up existing assets.

Only two weeks later, on Oct. 30, Entergy announced it had entered into an agreement to sell its gas distribution business to Baton Rouge-based Bernhard Capital Partners, a services and infrastructure-focused private equity management firm, for approximately $484 million in cash, subject to certain purchase price adjustments.

Entergy New Orleans’ gas business serves approximately 109,000 homes and businesses in New Orleans.

Barring regulatory approvals, the sale is expected to close in 2024.

— MISTY MILLIOTO

IN ITS HEYDAY, Avondale shipyard was the

largest employer in the state. After closing in 2013, however, the 254-acre property sat largely unused until it was purchased by the shipping and stevedoring company T. Parker Host in 2018. The purchase price was $60 million, and Host claims to have invested approximately $100 million in improvements since then.

In January, the Port of South Louisiana announced an agreement to buy the property — now positioned as the “Avondale Global Gateway” — for $445 million, most of which would be financed by a state bond issue.

Host announced $46 million in gross revenues in 2022, and supporters project a total economic impact of $32 billion by 2027. This would include 4,500 new jobs and $8.6 billion in payroll.

Skepticism emerged almost immediately.

Many observers questioned the economic projections and the port’s ability to make bond payments if revenues fell short. The vast profit that Host would realize also raised eyebrows, especially in light of conflicting value assessments for the property.

In August, Host and the port announced that they had settled on a new selling price of $330 million — a 25% reduction. With considerable doubts still remaining, including among members of the State Bond Commission, in October the partners announced that they were “pausing” their request for “further evaluation.”

A thriving, built-out Avondale would bring tremendous economic benefits to the entire region. Though the deal was not completed in 2023, its announcement brought considerable attention to this vital property, with hopes that an agreement can be finalized next year. — Keith Twitchell

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Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO)

HUB International

Advidly

BIOS Technologies

gulfbank.com

504-875-3908 JEDCO.org

hubinternational.com

Advidly.com

BiosITGroup.com

With over $3.1 billion in assets, Louisiana-based Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company serves its business and personal banking clients through its bank branches, loan production offices, trust and investment offices and business credit offices.

As an internationally accredited economic development organization, Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) is a leader in building a resilient, equitable, diverse, and competitive economy for Southeast Louisiana.

At HUB International, Senior Vice President Annette Dowdle thrives in helping businesses implement innovative benefit programs for recruiting and retaining best-in-class employees.

Committed to simplifying the complicated world of employee benefits, she champions a modern approach to employeecentric benefits.

Hey there, business owners! We all know how tough it can be to stand out and attract new customers, but guess what? Advidly is here to save the day!

As a business leader, you know that managing technology can be a headache, especially when you have a growing business to run. At BIOS Technologies, we understand that the disruptions caused by IT can take valuable time away from focusing on what really matters.

Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company has more than 850 employees across 20 branch locations in Southeast Louisiana and more than 49 total locations in 29 other states. Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company branch offices sprawl out into Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and East Baton Rouge cities.

Visit gulfbank.com for more resources.

Visit JEDCO.org or call 504-875-3908 to learn more.

Annette and her team help organizations build the employee benefits experience that sets them apart. How does it work?

First, they take an in-depth look at your current plans and policies. Next, they use data and analytics to better understand your workforce, providing key insights to employees’ unmet needs.

Then, Annette and her team help design a better benefits experience.

This approach allows businesses to create an easy-to-manage, highly personalized, and affordable benefits program that elevates the quality of the employee experience, ultimately retaining and attracting the most sought after employees in the marketplace.

You can reach Annette at annette.dowdle@ hubinternational.com or 504-491-5575.

Our mission? To tell YOUR unique story and help you build a strong brand identity that your audience can’t resist! With killer video advertising, expert social media management, and online platform domination, we’ll get your brand the attention it deserves.

So, if you’re ready to level up and achieve your growth goals, don’t wait – visit us at Advidly. com to get started today!

Your new marketing team is waiting!

For over 20 years, we’ve provided premium IT solutions to businesses in Greater New Orleans, specializing in Cyber Security, Remote Work, and Disaster Recovery.

Our team of experts will help reduce disruptions, improve uptime, and protect your business from unnecessary risks.

Whether you’re a small team or a large organization, our goal is to provide you with the right tools, processes, and team members to keep your business moving forward.

Make IT your strategic advantage and schedule a free consultation with us today at BiosITGroup.com.

BI Z N E WO RL E AN S.COM

As a community bank, Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company commits itself to nonprofit organizations in Southeast Louisiana through sponsorships and charitable giving.

Each year, Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company hosts a fundraising event, Auctions in August, for local and national organizations, schools, churches, and community groups. Since its inception in 2008, Auctions in August has raised over $1,397,000.

JEDCO drives the retention and creation of quality jobs, entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment in Jefferson Parish by providing a mix of resources, support, and connection to partners.

JEDCO also attracts new business to the community and supports existing businesses through a variety of services, including small business financing, tax incentive guidance, site selection, and Parish interface.

We’re not your average digital marketing agency – we’re a full-service team of content creators & entertainers dedicated to helping you crush the competition! No matter if you’re a small business or a big-time corporation, we’ve got the strategic minds and innovative skills to guide you from planning to launch and beyond.

B2B Service Guide

Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company

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FROM THE LENS

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WHY DIDN’T I THINK OF THAT?

NEIGHBORHOOD GEM

NEW ORLEANS 500

Want to experience top-tier restaurants around the country right in your home? Now you can, thanks to a unique subscription meal offering.

Plants, pots and neighborhoodbuilding all come together in this Algiers business.

Philip Gunn, senior advisor at EisnerAmper

GREAT WORKSPACES Modernity meets efficiency at the downtown law offices of Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann.

FROM THE LENS GREAT WORKSPACES

STONE PIGMAN WALTHER WITTMANN L.L.C. 909 Poydras St. // stonepigman.com // facebook.com/stonepigman; // linkedin.com/company/stone-pigman-walther-wittmann

DESIGN FOR A NEW CENTURY Modernity meets efficiency at the downtown law offices of Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann.

BY MIST Y MILIOTO

PH OTOS BY SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

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S

eeking a modern and efficient law office, Stone Pigman’s move to 909 Poydras Street involved a committee of partners who worked with Nelson Worldwide to oversee the architectural renovations as well as the interior design, which were completed in August 2017. Using the blank slate of the existing office space, the team built out shell space for the three floors they now occupy in the high-rise office tower.

JOURNEY TO THE 21ST CENTURY

Prior to the move, the firm’s offices were located in a building built in 1905 — the original City Hall

Stone Pigman’s practice offices are located on separate floors from the public meeting offices and other public spaces to ensure client confidentiality.

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Annex at 546 Carondelet Street. With the move, Stone Pigman used the opportunity to move from the 20th century to the 21st century in terms of both contemporary office design and furnishings.

“We wanted to be as efficient as possible in laying out our space requirements,” said Michael Walshe, chair of Stone Pigman’s management committee. “We wanted to have exterior light in the interior spaces to the [highest] degree possible, which informed our decisions about using clerestories in perimeter offices and laying out corridors to allow exterior light and views to be open on each floor.” In addition to allowing in the exterior natural light, the new offices also feature open and airy public spaces.

The management committee also wanted to separate the lawyers’ practice floors from the public meeting spaces on the 31st floor.

“It is not desirable to have client meetings in rooms that are in close proximity to lawyer

offices where clients might overhear confidential conversations,” Walshe said.

“Because the 31st floor would be our public floor, we built team rooms on the practice floors for internal meetings,” Walshe added. “We also made a significant investment in technology both on the 31st floor and on the practice floors.”

An example of the technological upgrades is that all employees now have motorized adjustable-height desks. At the time, Stone Pigman was also attempting to reduce its paper usage, which led to less space needed for document storage.

In the new location Stone Pigman also has access to two outdoor terraces on the 31st floor of the high-rise building — space that the team was able to incorporate as outdoor meeting and entertainment space.

“We built out a new kitchen and cafe,” Walshe said. “This unique downtown feature [now]

The redesigned office space features open and airy public meeting spaces, allowing for plenty of natural light.

QUICK LOOK Number of years in operation 94

Goal design a modern law firm Square footage 42,748

Number of Employees 98 total, 58 lawyers and 40 staff

Persons in Charge Michael Q. Walshe, chair of management committee Architecture NELSON Worldwide, Inc. Interior Décor NELSON Worldwide, Inc. and Interior Investments Initial Brand Development NELSON Worldwide, Inc. and Interior Investments Art and furnishings Interior Investments

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ADDITIONAL IMAGES AT BIZNEWORLEANS.COM

The Stone Pigman management committee worked closely with advisors through each phase of the redevelopment to achieve the luxe final design.

allows employees to have lunch outside in the middle of downtown. We are also able to host events for clients and organizations, employee happy hours and parties throughout the year on the balconies.”

Other standout features include two commissioned pieces from artist Shirley Rabe Masinter and unique architectural features.

“The wooden wall behind the receptionist desk and the desk itself were specifically designed for our space,” Walshe said. “We also have a good deal of custom millwork in the conference rooms and in the cafe.”

While Walshe admits that this certainly was a big project, he says that the Stone Pigman management committee worked closely with advisors through each phase of the redevelopment to achieve the firm’s move-in date and budget.

A SOLID HISTORY

Founded in 1929, Stone Pigman works with businesses of all size on litigation matters for clients in state and federal courts throughout Louisiana and the Gulf South. The firm’s business lawyers assist clients in negotiating and documenting transactions both regional and national in scope.

Stone Pigman’s business practice grew from its origins in taxation and real estate, but, beginning in the 1970s, the firm’s litigation practice grew from antitrust into securities, oil and gas, utility regulation, bank regulation, insurance regulation, toxic tort, environmental, class action, and multi-district litigation.

Today, the firm is known throughout the Gulf South for its preeminent litigation practice. Its business practice has also grown from a corporate, tax and real estate base to include mergers and acquisitions, corporate and business law, securities, corporate finance, health care, employment benefits, intellectual property, technology, executive compensation, franchising, estate planning, and environmental and intellectual property law. T

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FROM THE LENS WHY DIDN’T I THINK OF THAT?

MOVEABLE FEAST Want to experience toptier restaurants from around the country right in your home?

Now you can, thanks to a unique subscription meal offering.

BY ASHLEY MCLELLAN

PH OTOS BY EDMUND D. FOUNTAIN

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MOVEABLE FEAST moveablefeast.io //

@moveablefeastathome

PH OTO BY A DA H L I A C O L E

Each box is packed with a multi-course meal specially designed by a toptier chef. Each course is fully cooked and only requires assembly, with a handy step-by-step guide included.

I

nspired by a wealth of high-level restaurants across the United States, paired with pandemic-inspired creativity within the culinary community, restaurateurs John Stubbs of New Orleans’ own Jewel of the South and Jon Sybert of the Michelin-recognized Tail Up Goat in Washington, D.C., launched a one-of-a-kind subscription meal box that brings the dinner party home.

“We wanted to provide greater access to the most exciting restaurants in America,” Stubbs said. “Right now, there are a number of obstacles to access these experiences. You may have to travel great distances, or even across the country...You often have to go to great lengths to secure a reservation. You may have to fight traffic and find parking in a crowded city. You may need a babysitter. What if we could simply bring these experiences home to you?”

Unlike the popular weeknight meal prep kits that proliferated in the market during COVID-19 (think Hello Fresh or Blue Apron), Moveable Feast is a wholly unique service,

featuring top tier menus designed to be easy to reheat and serve to guests, along with, soon, paired cocktails or wine, all with the goal of taking the guesswork out of entertaining at home.

“Moveable Feast is different because of our restaurant partners,” Stubbs said. “We are currently working with the restaurants on the lists — the ones winning awards, leading the industry in taste, sustainability, employment practices and setting new standards for hospitality. We get to work with the best in the business and deliver access to experiences worthy of these restaurants to homes across the country.”

Moveable Feast subscriptions are available seasonally ($1,400 for four feasts), year-round ($3,960 for 12 feasts) or available as a one-off feast for gifting to yourself, family or friends.

The October box included a six-course menu

by Jewel of the South Chef Phil Whitmarsh featuring Hakurei turnips with bone marrow and smoked Maldon, braised short rib pie Bourguignon, and a dessert of Eccles cake with potted cheese, and was available in three sizes

and prices ($385 for four people, $770 for eight and $1,155 for 12). The box also included the ingredients (sans alcohol) to mix up a specially designed cocktail called “The Ponchatoula” by Tales of the Cocktail award-winning bartender Chris Hannah of New Orleans.

“It’s easy to gift dinners to family, friends, clients, or employees,” said Stubbs. “You can even opt to send an elegant invitation by old-fashioned postal mail. Your recipient then reviews our slate of upcoming restaurants and menus, finds one that suits their tastes, and secures a reservation for a date that is convenient for them. At that time, they can also let us know about any allergies or dietary restrictions,” Stubbs said.

For Moveable Feast, specially curated menus and market fresh ingredients set it apart from its everyday competitors.

“We built our first kitchen in Napa to get access to better farms, better ingredients, and longer growing seasons,” he said. “We only work with farmers that employ sustainable, biodynamic or organic growing methods. Our menus are seasonal, always. We work hand in

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hand with our restaurant partners to select each and every ingredient, and everything is selected with intention. There are no recipes to follow. Everything arrives cooked. We walk you through heating and plating with color-coded instructions and short videos. It requires no experience in the kitchen, and only about 30 minutes to put everything together for your table. My 11-year-old son enjoys prepping and plating the feats for us at home.”

Each box goes behind the meal, with a unique glimpse inside the restaurant kitchens of each, along with the chef and staff personalities, to round out the at-home dining experience.

“We have done most of the work for you,” Stubbs added. “Have fun with our playlists. We include one from the ‘back of house’ — this is what the kitchen staff play while prepping in the restaurant. And then there is another playlist for the ‘front of house’ — this is what you would experience as a customer in the dining room.

Learn to plate like a pro with our color-coded instructions and short videos, and set the table with individual menus for your place settings.”

While current boxes incorporate dining experiences for a group, Stubbs teases a new product that will be perfect for a more intimate get-together.

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“We currently have one product, Dinner Party, that serves four or more people,” he said. “In 2024, we will add a second product, Date Night, that serves two. We love what Dinner Party has to offer, and what it does to bring people together around the table. It’s not always possible to host guests, and Date Night should provide even more opportunities for our customers to enjoy restaurant experiences at home.”

PANDEMIC INSPIRATION

Pandemic protocols prompted significant changes to how restaurant-goers and restaurateurs approached dining, with those changes continuing to influence the industry from hospitality-rich cities like New Orleans and beyond.

“During the pandemic, we saw innovation at every level in the restaurant industry, and for a moment we saw some incredible restaurants create unique experiences for their customers to enjoy at home,” said Stubbs.

“That ended once restaurants reopened to guests. Most of our best restaurants are not built

to simultaneously service customers in their dining room and customers at home.”

Beyond providing a new culinary experience for diners, innovation outside of restaurant dining rooms proved to be a vital lifeline for many hospitality workers and restaurant owners.

“At the beginning of the pandemic, when restaurants were forced to close by government shutdown orders, I was part of a small group of restaurant owners who came together to engage policymakers in Washington, D.C.,” said Stubbs.

“Our group created the IndepenDID YOU KNOW? dent Restaurant Coalition, and HelloFresh was the we worked on legislation such as most popular service provider in the United the Paycheck Protection Program States, accounting and the Restaurant Revitalization for more than 70% of Fund. I’m incredibly grateful and the meal kit market in proud of the efforts of that group 2022, and with over $3.2 billion in U.S. to create lifelines that saved many revenues. restaurants.”

HelloFresh now “In executing this work, a few boasts more than 7 dozen restaurant owners met million subscribers twice weekly online for more than around the a year. These sessions were part world, with global strategy and part therapy, and we revenues reaching $6.5 billion. became fast and close friends,” he continued. “Several restaurant SOURCE: Statista leaders from that experience are founding partners of Moveable Feast, including Nina Compton (Compère Lapin, New Orleans), Kim Alter (Nightbird, San Francisco), Bobby Stuckey (Frasca Food & Wine, Boulder), Amanda Cohen (Dirt Candy, New York), and, of course, my co-founder Jon Sybert and his partner, Jill Tyler (Tail Up Goat, Washington, D.C.).”

Moveable Feast’s subscribers run the gamut, from tried-and-true foodies, to home cooks, families and more, according to Stubbs — a following the company is embracing and still exploring through new options and add-ons.

“We’ve been on the market less than a year, and we continue to learn a tremendous amount from our customers about how we can provide access to great chefs and restaurants,” said Stubbs. “We have customers who enjoy dinner with us every month and prepare the meals with their children as an elevated family night at home. We have professionals who regularly send dinners to clients and employees. There is a collection of customers who host dinner parties, and we are an alternative to catering or spending the week prepping the party. It’s exciting to learn about all the ways we are helping people create new experiences at home.”T

ADDITIONAL IMAGES AT BIZNEWORLEANS.COM

Ingredients for each box are fresh, seasonal and sourced from farmers that embrace “sustainable, biodynamic or organic growing methods.”

THE MEAL KIT CRAZE CONTINUES TO GROW Since its introduction in 2012, online meal kit delivery services have continued to expand. Meal kit revenue worldwide is expected to grow to over $17 billion in 2023 and is forecast to exceed $25 million by 2027.

SOURCE: August 2023 report from Statista

COCKTAIL

THE PONCHATOULA BY CHRIS HANNAH Add 1.5 oz. Cocktail & Sons Fassionola Mixer and 2 oz. rum into a cocktail shaker.

Add ice and shake.

Strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel.

FROM THE LENS NEIGHBORHOOD GEM

NEW ORLEAVES 800 Brooklyn Avenue // Algiers

New Orleaves

Plants, pots and neighborhoodbuilding all come together in this Algiers business.

BY KEITH T WITCHELL

R

aven Funches loves her city and her neighborhood, as reflected in both the name and location of her business.

New Orleaves is an eclectic operation, selling pottery, plants, art and terrariums; providing on-site plant and garden installations; and offering pottery classes at its new location at 800 Brooklyn Avenue in Algiers Point.

“I love the name,” exclaimed Funches. “I am very much proud of this city, and I love plants.

It felt natural, it made sense for me and for my vision of my business.”

As for the location, Funches said Algiers was a must.

“I grew up here, went to school here. It brought everything full circle.”

Funches has been making pottery for seven years, but didn’t open the teaching part of the business until around three years ago — right when COVID-19 hit. While the pandemic put an abrupt halt to in-person classes, she made it through by selling her various products and by doing plant installations and maintenance.

Now that social gatherings can proceed, the pottery classes have resumed. New Orleaves has six pottery wheels and all the necessary supplies for its students. Funches offers date nights, team-building exercises and family projects, among other opportunities. She emphasized that pottery-making is accessible to anyone.

“All you really have to do is relax and enjoy it,” she said. “People aren’t accustomed to the

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moving wheel, but they catch on pretty easily.”

For the plants and terrariums side of the business, Funches noted, “I like a complete micro-ecosystem,” which includes designing many of the terrariums to accommodate small reptiles. “A bio-active system is much more interesting.”

Her focus is largely on native plant species, especially in the installations she provides.

These usually fall into the green infrastructure category, meaning the landscape can capture and retain more rainwater, resulting in both beautification and flood abatement.

As is the case for many small businesses, marketing is a major challenge for New Orleaves.

“I appreciate grassroots and word-of-mouth marketing,” Funches said, “but when it’s time to scale up, it does not suffice.”

To support her business’s growth, she has developed a new website and is expanding her social media presence. She invites local artists to show and sell their works in her shop, which helps draw more people through the doors.

Finally, she is working to engage other neighborhood businesses in collaborative marketing and events and engaging nearby residents in a general community-building approach. One neighbor played music at her grand opening, and she had a pre-opening event for the neighborhood before she welcomed the general public.

Funches is definitely a people person, which, combined with her love of her neighborhood, has her very excited about the future of her business.

“It’s an interdisciplinary studio, with the pottery, the plants and terrariums, and the green infrastructure,” she elaborated. “We even do candle-making sometimes. But everything ties in together, and there is nothing even remotely similar to what I’m doing in this area. I want to get whole families involved, and I want to get the whole neighborhood involved!” T

FROM THE LENS NEW ORLEANS 500

DID YOU KNOW? A native New Orleanian, Philip Gunn has worked in public accounting for more than four decades with a focus on energy, industrial and consumer products companies. He’s the former president of the Society of Louisiana CPAs, among other professional groups, and is active in many civic organizations, including Greater New Orleans Inc. and Crimestoppers GNO. Education: University of New Orleans (BS)

Advice: Exceed expectations; both in your professional and your personal life.

Go-to Restaurant: I like Commander’s Palace for special occasions and Mandina’s for casual.

Hidden Gem: Oak Oven in Harahan

Nonprofit Cause: American Heart Association

Philip Gunn

Senior Advisor at EisnerAmper PH OTO BY MIKE LIRET TE

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BIZ N E W ORL E ANS

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On the Horizon: Postlethwaite & Netterville has become part of EisnerAmper, a top 20 U.S. CPA firm. The merger will allow us to expand the resources and services we can provide to our Louisiana- and Gulf Coastbased clients while some of the leading practices of P&N (government and energy industries; and our courtsettlement and programmanagement consulting services) will have the larger EisnerAmper footprint to help with growth. More importantly, our nearly 600 P&N employees will have the chance to significantly expand their skills and experience, and the merger provides greater career opportunities for everyone from the home city where they currently reside whether in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas or Washington, D.C.

ADDITIONAL Q+A ONLINE AT BIZNEWORLEANS.COM