Bossier Chamber gala touts new business opportunities
Several businesses and partnering agencies will be honored by the Bossier Chamber of Commerce with awards at their 66th annual meeting and gala on Jan. 28 at CenturyLink Center.
Ginger Collier, director of communications for the Bossier Chamber, said, “The Bossier Chamber’s annual meeting and gala is all about connecting business to business. It’s a chance for members to gather and learn how the Bossier Chamber has advocated for their business and community growth throughout the year.
“The Chamber represents over 1,000 local businesses all from across a variety of industry sectors and diverse backgrounds. The event helps to unify the local business community by bringing businesses both large and small together for an evening filled with glitz and glamour and provide a chance to celebrate outstanding business leaders in the local community.”
“In addition to recognizing Business of the Year and Business Person of the Year, awards will also be given for New Member of the Year, Media Partner of the Year, Military Relations Supporter of the Year, Diplomat of the Year and more.
The Bossier Chamber has seen significant growth in membership and programs over the past several years helping to tie in the event’s theme, ‘Opening Doors to New
Opportunities,’ which expresses the vision for the future as the Chamber continues to grow.
Jason Smith, 2013 Chairman of the Board, will pass the reigns to the incoming Chairman, Chancellor Jim Henderson. The outgoing and incoming Board of Directors will be recognized, and guests will receive the 2013 Annual Report and Program of Work.”
Highlights for the Bossier Chamber in 2013 have included being awarded 4-Star accreditation by the U.S. Chamber for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement.
In order to receive accreditation, a chamber must meet national standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology.
“Achieving 4-Star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber is a huge compliment to not only the staff and leadership of the Bossier Chamber, it is a testament to the growth and innovative thinking of our business community, local government officials, school systems and their collective commitment to the area,” Smith, vice president of Citizen’s National Bank and Chairman of the Bossier Chamber Board of Directors, said.
“The U.S. Chamber recognizes our Chamber’s commitment to the business community in conferring this accreditation.”
Bossier Chamber President Lisa Johnson said, “We are honored to receive this 4-Star achievement and join the top 3 percent of Chambers nationwide.”
Collier said the Chamber has celebrated significant growth in recent years and plans to continue to build on that momentum. Plans for the organization’s future include application for 5-Star Accreditation, a comprehensive re-branding initiative and a focus on initiating partnerships and advocating for issues affecting our member’s interest and the growth of Bossier Parish.
“Each year, the Chamber recognizes the business community and those that excelled in areas of leadership, growth and involvement. The honor of Business and Business Person of the Year is reserved for those that are dedicated not only to their company, but to making an impact here in their own backyard. Nominations can be submitted through www.bossierchamber.com and must be received by Jan. 10. To be considered, nominees must be members of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.”
Collier said, “The Bossier Chamber is honored to have the opportunity to partner with area businesses and is committed to working to help strengthen and enhance business growth in northwest Louisiana. The annual gala is a chance for the Chamber not only to highlight future opportunities but celebrate significant accomplishments from 2013. Lifting up business and community leaders such as Business of the Year and Business Person of the Year helps to tell our region’s story that Bossier Innovates, Northwest Louisiana is a great place to live and work, and businesses are thriving.
The gala will feature a red-carpet runway where attendees can show off their semi-formal attire. Additionally, an exclusive VIP Chairman’s reception is reserved for top sponsors and will be held prior to event kick-off.
Doors open at 7 p.m. with a cocktail hour followed by dinner and awards presentation.
The annual gala is open to Chamber members and there are many different ways businesses can be a part of the event. Businesses can purchase individual tickets for $40 or choose a sponsor option, which allows businesses to gain exposure in the business community.
For more information, interested parties may contact Jana Morgan at 746-0252 or by email at jana@bossierchamber.com.
– Michael Stone
