Already this first quarter of 2016 seems tough for Governor John Bel Edwards as he and the legislators address the financial concerns for our state.

As I attend many government and community meetings in the River Parishes, the high priority topic are these financial issues and how they will affect us now and in our future.

As a business community, we need to continue to voice our opinions and work together to share information with our representatives. We all agree our businesses will need support now and in the future in order to remain viable.

As a Chamber, we have a strong, active Public Policy committee connected with our local legislators and other organizations digging into the issues and offering solution-based support that will best fit our region.

Please stay tuned to future newsletter entries from Mr. Henry Friloux, Public Policy Chair, as we continue to keep you abreast on these issues affecting our communities in these next few months.

Locally, our Board of Directors at the January Board meeting unanimously voted on the following goals for 2016:

• Actively participate in creating awareness for our regional workforce development needs.

• Promote small business sustainability.

• Improve member engagement.

Along with these goals, we will continue to work diligently to grow membership.

The more members we have, the stronger the “voice” for business in our region. A big shout out to Bill Simoni of Marathon for spearheading the Education Committee this year. His team’s objective is to develop ways businesses can positively contribute to Education in our communities to support the needs of our future leaders.

The newly refined Business Development Committee is already rolling with new vision and their own dedicated objectives. Thanks to Matt Lundy of REI Promos and Stephanie Ball of 10K Small Businesses for stepping up to co-chair this year’s group.

A kickoff meeting was held last week. Stay tuned as they prepare their menu of opportunity to help business sustainability.

The annual Crawfish Boil and Golf Tournament are being planned as we speak.

Tickets for the Annual Crawfish Boil are being mailed to all members. Please help us support this effort by purchasing your tickets! Share with co-workers, family and friends. This is by far the largest attended event and best networking opportunity.

Take advantage of it.

Special thanks to you from all of us here at the Chamber, Board Members and staff, on your continued investment and support. Staying focused on what truly matters to help grow our region is what we are all about and we will continue as your Chamber to support and grow our communities for this generation and the generations to come.

Thank you, 

Annette B. Wray 

Service Manager,

Cox Business – New Orleans