By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

VACHERIE – The River Region Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet and installation of officers Thursday at Oak Alley Plantation.

The 7-year-old organization put on the banquet-style event, and many of the regions brightest luminaries came out to show their support. Parish presidents, council members and school superintendents mingled with local business leaders at the dressed-down soiree.

After the necessary introduction from Executive Director Chassity McComack, the group’s new board members were brought onstage, where Judge Jude Gravois swore them in.

Next, McComack revealed the organization’s new officers. Outgoing Chair Rhonda Hotard passed the torch to Henry Friloux, who has been involved with the Chamber since its inception.

Hotard said she was proud of the accomplishments of the Chamber over the past years.

“We’ve done more in seven years than some chambers can say they’ve done in 75 years,” she explained.

The ever-jovial Friloux began his short speech, “I was told I have two minutes. As Helen Lundy would say, ‘Henry Friloux can’t say ‘hello’ in two minutes.’”

As Friloux continued his speech, he made it clear he recognized the role of leadership in the organization is one of service to the community.

“As we enter 2011, I’m very optimistic about the future of the River Parishes,” he concluded.

Other officers installed Thursday included Treasurer Nathan Stein, Secretary Penny Freeman and Vice Chair Ralph Phillip.

The Chamber also recognized some of its outstanding members during the banquet.

Receiving awards were:

• Small Business of the Year – Reserve Telecommunications;

• Large Business of the Year – Marathon;

• Community Leadership awards – John Harmon, Matt Bordelon and Kim Bourgeois;

• Shining Star awards – Mia Perez, Raquel Burns and Helen Lundy;

• Board Member of the Year – Sheila Butler; and

• Committee of the Year – Professional Inclusion Council