We know that negativity exists on our world, but unfortunately we are never prepared when tragedy strikes close to home.

To our neighbors in Baton Rouge, as well as other communities in our great nation who are experiencing tragedy and negativity, we offer our prayers, our love for humanity and hope that as one nation we can unite to support our fellow man/woman, not cause harm.

As a business community we can work together to discuss, share and encourage unity and neighborly behavior. The River Region Chamber of Commerce has a motto “to Grow, Strengthen and Unify business in the St. Charles, St. John and St. James Parishes.” This motto is not only to promote business so much as it is to promote community health. Thank you to those being a part of promoting safety and security day to day.

On June 24, we welcomed Mr. Stephen Waguespack, president of LABI to our General Membership meeting. Mr. Waguespack provided a Louisiana legislative wrap up. Louisiana businesses have been hit extremely hard this time as a result of the regular and two special sessions.

Mr. Waguespack shared that until we get true tax code reform, we will not be able to get a firm hold on our state financial problems and achieve a true resolution to our budget deficits.

Interesting questions were posed. What is Louisiana’s outlook for the next 10-20 years? What should our economy look like?

Currently, for our businesses to survive, as owners and managers, we strategize to plan ahead for the future that will help grow our business and keep jobs intact. Maybe, if our government could take these strategies into consideration as our businesses do, Louisiana may have a better chance of keeping up with our responsibilities to our people.

In the meantime, our Chamber has more informative, business-promoting opportunities for you. You asked for networking events, and we have them!

St. John Theatre will be hosting the July business after hours event on Thursday (July 14) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Plans are being finalized for the August General Meeting, hosting U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy.

September will bring another Lunch ‘N Learn co-hosted by Louisiana SBDC and Goldman Sachs 10K Small business. Be sure to check the calendar for more details. God Bless each of you. Let’s continue to work together for a prosperous community!

Annette Wray is chairwoman for the River Region Chamber of Commerce and service manager for Cox Business. For more Chamber information, email chassity@riverregionchamber.org or log onto riverregionchamber.org.