It’s hard to believe that the first quarter of 2018 is already behind us.

As I reflect on my first three months as chair, I am excited about the progress that WE are making for our region.

In March, the first ‘Chamber Connections’ luncheon was held at Belle Terre Country Club. A very enthusiastic group consisting of 40 Chamber members had an opportunity to pitch their business or organization to their fellow Chamber members.

It was great to see the networking and camaraderie before and after the event. If you were not able to attend, plans are in the works for another luncheon sometime in June.

Our inaugural Leadership River Region program will be wrapping up soon. The participants are looking forward to their graduation program, which will take place on June 6.

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available for this event and can be secured by calling the Chamber office. Applications for the 2018-19 class will be available in May.

Workforce development initiatives continue to take center stage. Through the LA Calling Campaign, we are collaborating with our regional leaders and educators, as well as our business and industry partners, to showcase the educational pathways that lead to high-value jobs and sustainable careers in our region.

Don’t miss out on our biggest networking event of the year! Our annual crawfish boil will be held on Thursday/April 19 at 5:30 p.m. on the grounds of the Lutcher Park Pavilion.

If you haven’t purchased your tickets, please call the Chamber office at 985-359-9777 to reserve your seat.

A special thank you to St. James Parish President Timmy Roussel and his staff for serving as our host this year.

I look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events. Let’s get GROWing!

Kim B. Bourgeois works for Louisiana Federal Credit Union and is the 2018 Chairwoman of the River Region Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.