River Parishes Magazine Summer 2022

River Parishes Magazine Winter 2022

R IVER PARISH RESIDENTS,

Thank YOU! BEST BEST BEST BEST

NEW CAR DEALERSHIP USED CAR DEALERSHIP PLACE TO BUY A USED CAR PLACE TO BUY A RECREATIONAL VEHICLE

WE APPRECIATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE A PART OF THIS WONDERFUL COMMUNITY. WE ARE SO PROUD TO HAVE YOUR VOTES AND BE ABLE TO PROVE OUR SLOGAN "We Do Right BaYOU!" AS IDA RECOVERY CONTINUES FOR US ALL, WE WANTED TO SHARE A SNEAK PEEK OF THE FUTURE OF BAYOU FORD.

PLEASE J O I N U S I N W E LCOMING THE NEWEST ADDITION TO O U R AUTOMOTIVE FAMILY:

We'll Remain OPEN Through Our Progress BAYOU AUTOMOTIVE I BELLE TERRE BLVD I LAPLACE, LA I 70068

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

The Ferry Landing doubles its impact, expanding into 2 businesses

13

Louisiana’s River Parishes: a premier staycation destination

26

Summer may be a vacation for some, but your Chamber is hard at work

24 20

Why Ponchatoula is the perfect place for a staycation

St. James Parish Hospital doctors share their favorite summertime activities

On the Cover: Saint the Alligator A 50-foot alligator bonfire named “Saint” greets visitors outside of the Louisiana’s River Parishes Tourist Commission office on Belle Terre Boulevard in LaPlace. The alligator, designed and constructed by Garyville-based bonfire builders “Blood, Sweat, and Bonfires,” was unveiled in Winter 2020 to commemorate the River Parishes’ unique Christmas tradition.

River Parishes Magazine • 3

One-stop shop for food, refreshments & shopping

The Ferry Landing doubles its impact, expanding into 2 businesses

BY BROOKE R. CANTRELLE

O

ne of the hidden gems of the River Parishes has expanded into a one-stop shop for food, refreshments and shopping.

Nestled along the Mississippi River at 2113 Miles St. in Lutcher, The Ferry Landing has grown into two distinct businesses: The Ferry Landing Café and The Ferry Landing Two Vintage and Makers’ Market.

The Ferry Landing debuted in early 2020, showcasing the talent of local crafters. Everything handmade, homemade and vintage can still be found in The Ferry Landing Two. More than 2,700 square feet has been packed with timeless treasures admired by visitors from near and far.

While both businesses remain family-owned and operated, transforming the charming 1800s house on

The Ferry Landing Café owners Andy and Keri Tramonte enjoy custom made coffees and quality time with their son, Wyatt, inside the family business.

4 • River Parishes Magazine

We're here to help you rebuild.

We have a large in-stock supply of wood fencing materials in the sizes and styles to fit any look or budget.

WOOD FENCING | TREATED PINE LUMBER | WESTERN RED CEDAR LUMBER DECKING | PERGOLAS | PAVILIONS | HARDWARE

LIM

TIME ITED

OFFE

R

Y R E V I EE DEL 00

FR

for a

over s r e d r ll o

$10

4717 Airline Drive | Metairie, LA | (504) 837-3300

Sequoia_Full_Page_7x10.indd 1

sequoiaoutdoorsupply.com

1/24/2022 11:46:25 AM

the back of the property into a cozy coffee shop was a dream come true for husband-and-wife Andy and Keri Tramonte.

Andy and Keri used to travel out of town to find quaint coffee shops where they could spend quality time with their two sons.

What started with mugs of hot coffee, espressos, iced drinks and frappes expanded as Andy began baking.

Vote for Us for

Andy Tramonte is seen preparing a cup of coffee inside The Ferry Landing Café.

Vote for Us for Best of the River Parishes

6 • River Parishes Magazine

The Ferry Landing Café’s offerings continued to increase as Andy grew more confident in the kitchen, preparing sandwiches, paninis, homemade hamburgers, soups of the day and more. Regular customers will often come in bright and early to indulge in breakfast biscuits, muffins, beignets or scones. The menu changes day-by-day as Andy prepares whatever strikes his fancy.

The Ferry Landing Café has started hosting tea parties for little girls, and the eclectic space has become a popular meeting spot for the community. When customers can’t make it to the café, the café comes to them with a mobile espresso cart that has been on location for weddings, baby showers and teacher appreciation events at local schools.

While the business hours read 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Keri jokes that The Ferry Landing Café has turned into an “almost 24-hour business” since delivery options were added.

“Because we live next door, it’s so easy to just pop over here. After I lock the door at 7, I’ll do deliveries.

Everything handmade, homemade and vintage can still be found in The Ferry Landing Two, a business packed with more than 2,700 square feet of timeless treasures.

This vendor booth at The Ferry Landing Two features beautiful, hand-crafted designs layered on top of antiques.

Robert@robertfaucheuxlaw.com www.robertfaucheuxlaw.com River Parishes Magazine • 7

Pictured behind the counter inside The Ferry Landing Café are, from left to right, Keri, Wyatt and Andy Tramonte.

VOTE FOR US FOR BEST OF THE RIVER PARISHES!

8 • River Parishes Magazine

It started with just the hospital’s overnight ER staff wanting coffee, and then we started offering it to nightshift workers. It’s been really popular with the bartenders,” Keri said. “Since we were already on the road, we opened deliveries up to all residents.”

The Tramontes do their best to fulfill all of the community’s requests, even when orders for burgers come in at 1:30 in the morning.

Andy said his interest in cooking came from his family, particularly his mother and grandmother. Every generation of his family seemed to have some tie to the restaurant business, going back to his great grandmother who once operated her own spaghetti shop in Lutcher.

However, Andy credits the creation of The Ferry Landing Café to the perfect storm of circumstances.

“Sometimes you really, really want something, and being able to get that one thing seems so hard. Sometimes you barely have to touch anything and it kind of happens on its own. That’s how this happened,” Andy said. “All of the signs in the universe pointed to this.”

It was especially important to Andy to build a safe haven where his son, Wyatt, can thrive.

“Because of us having a special needs kid, I think that was the true inspiration,” Andy said. “I looked at my wife and said, let’s build something that he can have. The world is cruel enough already. Why not help him enter it with something he can fall back on as a safety net?”

Wyatt, who is diagnosed with autism, is going into seventh grade this year.

At a young age, he already knows the ins and outs of managing a coffee shop and often helps his parents make frappes, bus tables, sweep and clean the dishes.

His 15-year-old brother is also growing into a responsible café operator who helps out however he can.

As The Ferry Landing Café became its own entity, Keri’s mother Mary Walker and aunt Marla Brignac took over the craft and antiques component of the business. The Ferry Landing Two Vintage and Makers’ Market celebrated its six-month anniversary in July, and the business continues to highlight the creations of approximately 60 vendors from the River Region and beyond.

Lloyd Robinson, a member of the Lutcher Police Department, displays antiques he’s collected along his journey inside his vendor booth at The Ferry Landing Two.

Your Local Hurricane Claim Attorney

Located In LaPlace

985-359-1239 showstopperlaw.com

607 Belle Terre Blvd., Suite A Laplace, LA 70068

Henri Dufresne River Parishes Magazine • 9

Local honey and bonfire memorabilia can be found in both The Ferry Landing Café and The Ferry Landing Two Vintage and Makers’ Market.

Photography, homemade tools, antiques, jarred local honey, handmade soaps, candles, scrubs and body products, hand sanitizers, jewelry, door hangers, wreaths, outdoor swings and wall décor can be found within the walls of The Ferry Landing Two. There are even a few charity booths that raise money for a good cause, including St. Vincent De Paul and The Kindness Cross Project.

10 • River Parishes Magazine

A guest book that was recently placed at the front desk has already gained signatures from tourists who hail from different states and countries, reaching as far as France and Israel.

Both Ferry Landing businesses have captured the hearts of visitors who come to the region to tour the plantations along the river.

Beadalicious Jewelry is among the gift items that can be found inside The Ferry Landing Two. However, the shop is equally popular among locals looking for unique gift items for all of life’s occasions.

“I’ve had people tell me they weren’t prepared for all of this awesomeness,” Mary said. “It is unique. I’m not sure of any other place like this where we highlight local talent as well as vendors from out of town and out of state. People didn’t know that these local people had this much talent because there was no place to showcase it.”

The Ferry Landing Two celebrated six months in business with a Christmas in July celebration. The

business currently has a waiting list to accept new vendors, and outdoor market events are periodically held to welcome in new talent.

The Ferry Landing Two is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information, visit The Ferry Landing Café and The Ferry Landing Two Vintage and Makers’ Market on Facebook.

Orders for The Ferry Landing Café can be placed by calling 225-264-3399.

Vote for Us for Best of e River Parishes

Vote for Us for Best of the River Parishes

Best Title Company

on lobservateur.com/contests

607 Belle Terre Blvd, LaPlace LA Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM (985) 359-1239 12 • River Parishes Magazine

Best Take Out Best Sub/Sandwich Best Lunch Under $15 Best Hamburger Best Breakfast Best Cajun Resturant at lobservateur.com/contest

10800 LA-3125, Gramercy, LA 70052

(225) 869-3894

Monday-Friday 5AM-1PM

Louisiana’s River Parishes:

a premier staycation destination

T

BY LORA LUQUET

he River Parishes offer a plethora of attractions steeped in rich Louisiana culture and history, from antebellum homes to swamp tours and scenic byways. With the added bonus of their proximity to the city of New Orleans, it seems like the perfect place for out-of-state tourists to settle to experience what South Louisiana has to offer without the allnight bustle and steep prices found in New Orleans.

However, the River Parishes Tourist Commission, also known as Louisiana’s River Parishes, has made its primary focus attracting in-state visitors since the COVID-19

pandemic swept across the world and international travel declined.

“COVID has slowed people down a little bit on traveling further, so we really concentrate on the five-hour drive,” Executive Director Jay Robichaux said. “Anyone five hours away, we want them to drive in, experience our venues, stay one night, experience the venues the next day and then drive back.”

“Staycations” have also recently ramped up in popularity, offering people an opportunity for a closer-to-home vacation without requiring overnight accommodations such as hotels and motels.

The River Parishes offer many seasonal and year-long attractions, including tours through the Cypress swamps.

River Parishes Magazine • 13

Laura Plantation, located in St. James Parish, is one of the destinations that attracts visitors to the River Parishes, away from the hustle and bustle of the city of New Orleans.

“The state also has really, really pushed staycations,” Robichaux said. “We really want you to go from one parish to another, even an hour drive, drive in and see everything and then drive back.”

According to Kiki Mannear, senior communications and engagement manager at Louisiana’s River Parishes,

• Events

14 • River Parishes Magazine

the River Parishes are the perfect place for Louisiana residents to have a staycation.

“We are conveniently situated at the intersection of I-55 and I-10, making us an easy road trip from all over the state of Louisiana,” Mannear said.

This push for the five-hour drive and staycations has proven to be extremely profitable for the region, which aids in tax relief for the residents of these parishes.

“Research has proven that 60% of visitation to our region is coming from within the state of Louisiana.

We have aligned our marketing efforts to reflect that drive radius,” Mannear said. “Of the 40% of outside visitation, we are seeing the highest concentration from Texas and Mississippi.”

The River Parishes offer many seasonal and year-long attractions and venues for visitors to learn the history of the parishes, enjoy the regional cuisine and participate in fun and exciting family activities.

Visitors may want to begin with the Cajun Pride Swamp Tours, a swamp tour company that offers insight into why the River Parishes have been dubbed the New Orleans Swamp Country.

“This local swamp tour company has been featured on Jimmy Kimmel Live for the colorful experiences that unfold. Tours run daily and last about an hour and a

half,” Mannear said. “As your boat drifts through the waterways, you will learn about the Louisiana Wetlands, the inhabitants of the swamp, particularly the life and habits of the American Alligator, as well as the unique history of the Cajun town of Frenier within the Manchac Swamp.”

The River Parishes also offer the Andouille Trail, a trail of restaurants, markets and cooking experiences where

Historic Riverlands, located in Reserve, offers a church tour and a Soul River musical tour.

tourists can taste Andouille, a dish that was created in the River Parishes by combining the French and German culinary heritages.

“You can see how it’s made, taste a sample, buy some to-go, dine-in, or have it shipped to you,” Mannear said. “Many of our area restaurants also have Andouille on the menu–in Louisiana delicacies like gumbo and jambalaya, all the way to inventive toppings for pizza and potatoes.”

The tourist commission also encourages visitors to appreciate the plantations located in the River Parishes and all of the historical information and artifacts they have to offer. Plantations located in the River Parishes open for visitors include Destrehan Plantation, the 1811 Kid Ory Historic House, Laura Plantation Creole Heritage Site, Oak Alley Plantation, Felicity Plantation, Ormond Plantation, Poche Plantation, St. Joseph Plantation and Whitney Plantation.

“New Orleans Plantation Country spews with charm, but also strives to inform visitors on its history pertaining to slave narratives, genealogical records of the enslaved, and the emotional hardships that countless enslaved people experienced here,” Mannear said.

The River Parishes also offer exciting attractions such as ZipNOLA, the world’s first fully aquatic swamp zipline.

Vote for your favorites at lobservateur.com/contests starting on August 1st To advertise your business, Contact Gene Franques 504-234-2665 or gene.franques@lobservateur.com River Parishes Magazine • 15

“The course is roughly one-half mile long, taking guests approximately an hour-and-a-half to complete,” Mannear said. “Riders begin the adventure from atop of a 60foot start platform, with complete views of the magnificent Maurepas Swamp, Lake Pontchartrain, the historic town of Frenier, and even the New Orleans skyline!”

During the holiday season, the River Parishes offer unique bonfires on the levee along the Mississippi River.

This annual event is a long-standing tradition to celebrate Christmas the Louisiana way.

“During the weeks that follow Thanksgiving, families and friends come together atop the Mississippi River levees to construct nearly two hundred 20-foot-high wooden bonfires that celebrate and honor the region’s storied past,” Mannear said. “Parades, festivals and open houses during Bonfire Season build anticipation for the spectacular Bonfires on the Levee on Christmas Eve.” Louisiana’s River Parishes are also home to many hotels, motels and unique overnight accommodations to cater to any preferences.

Vote for Us for Best of the River Parishes

16 • River Parishes Magazine

Louisiana’s River Parishes are home to unique agriculture.

Kayak tours are one of many ways to experience the swamp.

“We have a plethora of traditional hotels in varying budgets peppered throughout the region. The region is also home to over 20+ RV parks and campgrounds,” Mannear said. “One of the most unique places to park your RV is Poche Plantation. They are currently running a special where you can stay three nights and get the fourth night free.”

This list is only a fraction of what the River Parishes have to offer for a staycation journey. The River Parishes Tourist Commission offers a variety of self-guided itineraries and trails to explore the region on their website. This makes it easy for visitors to pick and choose their favorite places to explore during their stay.

To access these itineraries, or for more information on the River Parishes, visit the Louisiana’s River Parishes website, https://lariverparishes.com/.

Located in LaPlace, ZipNOLA a is the first and only swamp zipline adventure.

Whitney Plantation in Wallace puts the spotlight on the experiences of the enslaved.

Bonfires on the levee are a beloved Christmas tradition in St. James and St. John the Baptist parishes.

River Parishes Magazine • 17

Seen it

The newly formed Kiwanis Club Tri Parishes is seen after its July 12 meeting. The guest speaker was St. Charles Parish President Matt Jewell.

Saint Optical shows off its current staff.

The Rotary Club of LaPlace recently had its award banquet. Pictured are Robert Tamplain with Rotarian of the Year and 2022-23 President Demetria Robinson-Carter and 2020-2022 President Lucien Gauff.

The newly elected officers of LaPlace American Legion Post 383 are pictured with the Department (state) Commander Allen Dunn. The local post is led by Commander Allan Reynaud.

18 • River Parishes Magazine

St. John the Baptist Parish Schools recently attended the reverse trade show explaining how the public can do business with them.

Pictured are Janice Gauthier, Dr. Curt Green and Robert Schaff.

The LaPlace Ladies Auxillary of the American Legion Post 383 take a moment to smile after being installed.

The River Region Chamber of Commerce sponsored a Reverse Trade Show allowing businesses the opportunity to meet with other larger entities. Pictured are from left to right, Rene Ockman (IMTT), Jay Robichaux (River Parishes Tourist Commission), Chassity McComack (River Region Chamber), Lawrence Garrison (Kacen’s Kare) and Wayne Aucion (SBDC).

Betty Martin and San Rixner, Rotarians from LaPlace, take a moment for a picture.

Executive Chef Natasha Clement of Santos Restaurant in Luling prepares a delicious meal.

Upcoming Events August

• Tuesday, August 9, at 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Berries & Business Luncheon at Ponchatoula Kiwanis • Saturday, August 27, at 8:00 am - noon Mystic Crusin’ Strawberry Parking Lot

September

• Tuesday, September 13 at 6:00 pm - 8:00pm Ponchatoula Business Expo-Ponchatoula Lion’s Club • Saturday, September 24 at 8:00 am- noon Mystic Crusin’ Strawberry Parking Lot

October * November

Homecooked, Breakfast & Lunch

Monday-Saturday 7AM-2PM paulscafe.net

• Saturday, October 15, 5:30 pm - 8:30pm Art and Wine Stroll • Friday, October 22, 5:30pm - 6:30pm Trick or Treat on Pine • Saturday, October 29, 8:00 am -noon Mystic Crusin’ • November 4, 5, 6 at 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Antique Trade Days and Arts & Crafts Fair

River Parishes Magazine • 19

The Mayberry of the South

Why Ponchatoula is the perfect place for a staycation

BY CRISTIE ANN ADDISON

W

hen we think of Ponchatoula, we think of strawberries, but there is so much more to this little big town. “Mayberry of the South” best describes Ponchatoula with its beautiful parks, alligator farm, restaurants and shops.

Ponchatoula is only a 45-minute drive from Metairie, where I grew up. I always enjoyed the festivities, antique shops and the best strawberry daiquiris around. This town always gave me that cozy small-town feeling that I still feel to this day, and I want to share this experience with others.

The annual Strawberry Festival is among the most popular local attractions.

20 • River Parishes Magazine

One of my favorite things is a staycation, and Ponchatoula is one such place that is far enough from the craziness of a big city but close enough for a short trip. Guests can choose from one of the many Airbnbs in town, including some quaint and cozy cottages just steps away from downtown. Plus, they offer plenty of parking.

Guests can walk to Paul’s Café for some excellent homestyle breakfast or lunch while taking in the historical architecture on Pine Street, then take a stroll downtown to enjoy a variety of shops, art and museums.

Visitors can take a step back in time by entering one of the many antique shops. Trail’s End Antiques is only one example of what Ponchatoula has to offer. For vintage, homemade and other specialty items, there are many boutique and specialty shops in the area.

After a day of shopping, stop at one of the local bars to enjoy a variety of famous daiquiris. We have bars perfect for those looking for a game of pool, great music, and a variety of daiquiris, local beers or cocktails.

Ponchatoula is a host to many events year-round. One is the second-largest event in the state of Louisiana, the Strawberry Festival. This event is a three-day festival including rides, a parade, music, various foods, and of course, strawberries from our local farmers.

Ponchatoula is widely known as the Strawberry Capital of the World.

Events: Art & Wine Stroll

October 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Antique Trade Days and Arts & Crafts Fair

November 4, 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mystic Crusin

August 27, September 24 and October 29 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

River Parishes Magazine • 21

The Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce thanked all of the businesses and vendors that participated in the most recent Art and Wine Stroll. Chairpersons Annie Hildalgo and Kyla Broussard are pictured at the center of the collage.

22 • River Parishes Magazine

Trail’s End Antiques is one of the idyllic shops that Ponchatoula has to offer.

Art lovers can enjoy the popular Art and Wine Stroll in the fall and take in the beautiful creations from our talented and creative artists as they stroll Downtown.

Northshore visitors can also share their creative side by joining a painting class on an old school bus transformed into a work of art.

While your family enjoys this great place, don’t leave without taking a picture with our Giant Strawberry Statue by Strawberry Park. The statue has become a very photogenic spot in the area.

I have always enjoyed Ponchatoula and am blessed to be working in this beautiful place. Ponchatoula continues to give me that cozy feeling when I come into town. I have lived in two other states, and people know about this little big town whenever I mention Ponchatoula, LA. This town proved its resilience post-COVID and Hurricane Ida by continuing to prosper and flourish. They show visitors that nothing will break their traditions by working together to bring back what Ponchatoula is all about, the love of people and their town.

They call this town “Mayberry of the South” for a reason.

The people take pride in the architecture, culture and, most notably, their hospitality. So, give yourself a break from a busy life, go on a Staycation in Ponchatoula, and enjoy the history, the beautiful art, fantastic shopping, delicious restaurants and most of all, the people.

You may reach us at the Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce, and we will be happy to help with information regarding upcoming events, shops and restaurants we have here in town. Or come and visit us at the chamber at 160 W Pine St. Ponchatoula, LA 70454 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday.

We can be reached by phone at 985-386-2536.

River Parishes Magazine • 23

St. James Parish Hospital doctors share their favorite summertime activities

L

ouisiana is often described as “sportsman’s paradise” for its landscape and rich history in fishing, hunting and hiking. Families don’t have to leave the state (or often even the River Parishes) to enjoy a fun time together and make lasting memories.

Here, the doctors at St. James Parish Hospital share their favorite summertime activities and outdoor adventures near home.

When I have free time and want to stay local, I like to play golf and hike. – Dr. Cullen Ocmond, Family Practice Physician, St. James Parish Hospital 24 • River Parishes Magazine

My favorite thing to do during the summer is to go fishing down in the Atchafalaya Basin for sacalait. – Dr. Dylan Poche, Family Practice Physician, St. James Parish Hospital

I enjoy walking my dog for a few miles before sunrise— it’s still cool—and we get to see the sunrise at the end of the walk. – Dr. Clay Boyd, Urologist, St. James Parish Hospital

We like to go behind the levee or to back of cane fields to look for fireflies. It brings back many childhood memories. It is magical to see groups of fireflies lighting up.

We also like going outside to look at the stars and go for walks after the sun has gone down. Enjoying snowballs is also a fun thing to do in the summer. We like to visit the pink snowball stand in town.

– Denise Louque, Family Nurse Practitioner, St. James Parish Hospital

Summertime health tips from trusted physicians The physicians at St. James Parish Hospital shared the following tips to stay healthy as temperatures come to a peak this summer.

• Slowly get used to working in the heat a little at a time over several weeks to get better heat-acclimated for the summer.

• Hydrate BEFORE going out in the heat and sun.

• If possible, avoid activity in the hottest parts of the day.

• Stay hydrated with not only water but also a sports drink to replace electrolytes—especially when sweating. Drink equal parts water and electrolyte drink.

Staycations are an option for budget-conscious vacationers or people who simply do not want to travel too far from home due to mobility issues or other restrictions.

Enhancing staycations with entertaining themes can improve the fun factor. While any themed day can be inspired by an active imagination, these ideas can get the creativity flowing.

• Superhero day: Embrace your favorite superhero by dressing up in his or her colors, donning a superhero T-shirt or watching an action-packed superhero movie.

•P ajama day: This is a fun theme for rainy days when Mother Nature keeps you indoors. Stay in your pajamas all day and enjoy a cozy, lazy day.

•A lma mater day: Parents and children can pull out their trusted college T-shirts, sweatshirts or other school attire. Bake up some tasty treats in school colors and then find some old photos or look for highlights of your alma mater’s sports teams online.

• Throwback day: Take a step back in time by playing games or engaging in activities from your youth. Teach youngsters about the toys you enjoyed or watch movies from the era in which you grew up.

•C razy hair day: Embrace bed head, plug in the curling iron, double down on hair gel or pomade, or put those wacky coiffures into full effect.

• Cultural day: Tap into your personal heritage by researching your family tree and then preparing a meal that coordinates with your heritage.

• Arts and crafts day: Get crafty by tackling a creative project that the family will enjoy. Or engage in individual projects before comparing the final results collectively.

PUSH STAYCATIONS TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ENTERTAINING DAYS BASED ON CERTAIN THEMES.

•W ear sunblock and reapply often if sweating or swimming.

•W ear hats to help keep sun off of the face and head.

St. James Parish Hospital offers primary care services in Lutcher and Vacherie. To schedule an appointment, call 225.869.9890.

Several specialists also see patients at the Medical Plaza next to the hospital. Call 225.258.5930 to find a specialist.

Visit www.sjph.org/clinical-services for a complete listing of services.

Summer may be a vacation for some, but your Chamber is hard at work

BY SCOTT BURTON 2022 Chairman of the Board

G

reetings, River Parishes. I hope you are staying safe, avoiding the next iteration of COVID and managing rising costs and the disrupted supply chain. With summer vacation underway, I want to give a special

thanks to the teachers, administrators, and school employees for navigating the 2021-22 school year for our children. Congratulations to the many graduates in our parishes, leaving college for the next step on their career journey, completing high

The River Region Chamber receives a donation from the St. Bernard Chamber for recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. 26 • River Parishes Magazine

The River Region Chamber of Commerce members have fun with props at the 2022 banquet held at Belle Terre Country Club.

River Parishes Magazine • 27

The Jambalaya Shoppe was among the recent ribbon cuttings celebrated by the River Region Chamber.

The River Region Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a successful Reverse Trade Show at the Edward A. Dufresne Center in Luling. Pictured are Dayna James and Rachael Burns.

28 • River Parishes Magazine

Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore hosted Chamber Perks, an exciting networking opportunity. school and entering college, starting a career, or joining the military and the middle and elementary students graduating to new schools. It cannot be overstated how resilient our teachers and students are for their efforts this past year.

It may be vacation for some, but your chamber is thriving and growing and very busy connecting businesses and governments to each other. We recently completed the Hurricane Preparedness Seminar with a huge thanks to Entergy (our sponsor) and to Mark Johnson, Chamber Board Member who facilitated this important event. As we begin what is expected to be an above average hurricane season, we are well aware that thousands of residents and businesses continue to recover from Ida. I can promise you I am much more attentive to the checklist and steps to prepare!

In June, the Chamber also hosted a Reverse Trade show which provided a key opportunity for small local and regional businesses to connect with industry and government. This is a highly requested event the Business Development Committee was eager to resume post-pandemic.

As reported previously, committee execution and member engagement will drive the chamber forward.

Membership is steadily increasing but not yet to pre-pandemic levels. Our ambassadors are working to retain current members and increase new members.

If you want to build your networking and business development skills, co-chairs Danaya Gathers and Michele Millet welcome your energy and participation.

Our policy committee is sponsoring a Parish Presidents Forum in August, an event that consistently attracts high attendance and serves in the true spirit River Parishes Magazine • 29

of regionalism having all three parish leaders in attendance giving important updates on their respective parishes. The Workforce Development committee continues to provide a platform for all three school systems to meet and discuss training needs provided to help create a qualified future workforce for our business and industry.

Information on these committees can be found on our website at www.riverregionchamber.org.

Looking forward, events to bookmark and add to your calendar include the following: •P arish Presidents Forum, Aug. 19, 8:30 AM •C hamber Golf Tourney, Sept. 26, 7 AM & 1 PM •W omen’s Empowerment, Nov. 9, 10 AM Again, my ask of you is to support your chamber by following us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and bookmarking our chamber website. Attend events and volunteer your time and energy. We need you and I am confident you will benefit

The Chamber works closely with the Port of South Louisiana to support the growth of the River Region. from engaging. My expectation of our team is to be the catalyst for a regional approach to networking and collaboration that builds community, reinforces growth, and responds to your needs. Please share any ideas you have by reaching out to the chamber or by emailing me directly at scott.burton@coxmedia.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Looking to grow your business?

We can help you find the audience for your product or service.

For more information, email christine.browning@lobservateur.com 985-652-9545 or 985-233-0809

30 • River Parishes Magazine

Award-Winning mammography care, right here at home.

The 3D Mammo Team at St. James Parish Hospital was recently recognized with a Skin Marking in Mammography Excellence Award for their use of a specialized marketing system that can help make the interpretation of mammograms more accurate and efficient.

Learn more. sjph.org/mammographyexcellence-award/

Schedule a 3D Mammogram.

225.258.5953 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Visit Us. 1645 Lutcher Ave, Lutcher, LA

Located just 30 minutes from New Orleans Louisiana’s River Parishes offer excitement around every corner. Discover it in the uniquely fl avorful aromas drifting from the gumbo pots and smokehouses along the Andouille Trail or i n the delicate, curling smoke rising from a Perique tobacco cigar.

Make adventure your destination in the bayous, s wamps, and lakes of New Orleans Swamp Country where you can fish the waters of the C atfish Capital of the World. Go further and you’ll find hiking on boardwalks raised over

marshy swamplands, or kick back and enjoy a guided bayou boat tour.

Our history, real and unvarnished, is felt in the landmark homes of New Orleans Plantation Country and the museums along the 1811 Slave Revolt Trail; offering compelling and authentic experiences which provide a stark, yet stunning, reminder of our complex past.

Find your adventure Out Here

at LARiverParishes.com

51

51 New Orleans: 30 min.

Baton Rouge: 30 min.

LARiverParishes.com