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How much has changed in a year! First, I am certain that I speak for everyone in our parishes when I offer our sympathy and prayers for those devastated by the catastrophe in South Florida. While acknowledging that many in our region are still healing, we are all too familiar with their plight.

I am thrilled to present you with an update on your chamber, especially as I transition to the 2023 Chairwoman, Diane Jackson. Parish presidents Hotard, Jewell and Dufresne were able to share updates on Ida recovery and other positive developments in their respective parishes during the sold-out Parish Presidents Forum hosted at the gorgeous Oak Alley. The atmosphere of tremendous camaraderie and networking in the room exemplifies our region’s “unique sauce.” Our workforce development and business development committees hosted events that centered on acquiring, developing and retaining workers and highlighting economic development initiatives. The month of September concluded with my favorite golf tournament in the neighborhood (in Virginia, we didn’t have wonderful food and beverages at virtually every hole!).

The Board of Directors finalized our strategic plan. The four focus areas include:

• Membership and Recruitment
• Workforce and Economic Development
• Advocacy and Government Affairs
• Organizational sustainment

I urge you to read the strategic plan on our website, www.riverregionchamber.org, under “THE CHAMBER” and I welcome your thoughts and input.

As you are able this fall, please mark your calendars for the following events:

• Tri-Parish Superintendent Forum, Oct. 21, 8:30 a.m. RPCC Reserve Campus
• Women’s Empowerment, Nov. 9, 10 a.m., Legacy Venue and Restaurant
• Tri-parish Sheriff’s Forum, Nov. 16, Cloud9 (Cypress Lakes CC, Destrehan)

 

I continue to be inspired by the corporate and government leaders who volunteer their time and skills to improve our region, and I encourage you to consider volunteering your energy and enthusiasm with the chamber. Our Finance, Ambassador, Public Policy, Economic Development, Workforce Development and Communication committees provide opportunities for you to contribute, network and develop your abilities. These committees’ information can be found on our website, www.riverregionchamber.org.

Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn, and add our chamber website to your bookmarks. Attend events and provide your time and energy as a volunteer. We require your participation, and I am convinced you will gain from it. My hope is that our team will be the impetus for a regional approach to networking and collaboration that fosters community, promotes expansion, and addresses your needs. Please share your ideas by contacting the chamber or by sending me an email at scott.burton@coxmedia.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

 

 

Scott Burton, 2022 Chairman of the Board for the River Region Chamber of Commerce, can be reached at scott.burton@coxmedia.com.