We had a full room for our recent State of Economic Development Breakfast, where leaders got an inside look at Louisiana’s bold approach to growth. Attendees heard from Susan Bourgeois, Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development, in conversation with Russell Richardson of St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation. Together, they shared how Louisiana is rethinking economic development—with…
In business, we too often focus our attention on the challenges we currently face or obstacles we anticipate. These are important perspectives to maintain; they will help prevent losses of what has been built. However, it is being a constant scout for opportunities that lead to the next bouts of growth and depth that we…
Our Chamber’s committee chairpersons came together to review guidelines and share ideas to strengthen committee effectiveness and support our program of work. Appointed by our Board Chair, these volunteer leaders play a key role in advancing our mission and helping ensure the Chamber remains a strong voice for business across St. Tammany Parish. We’re grateful…
We had a great turnout for our recent State of the Cities Breakfast, with more than 100 Chamber members from across the parish joining us at Tchefuncte Country Club. Attendees heard directly from the mayors of our three largest cities—Covington Mayor Mark Johnson, Mandeville Mayor Clay Madden and Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal—as they shared updates…
Our Chamber recently joined more than 600 organizations in urging the U.S. Senate to prioritize bipartisan, comprehensive permitting reform. Modernizing the federal permitting process would help move infrastructure, energy, and broadband projects forward faster—supporting investment, creating jobs, and driving economic growth both regionally and nationwide. Why it matters to our communities: outdated and inefficient permitting…
As part of our Chamber’s ongoing efforts to keep the community informed, District Attorney Collin Sims of the 22nd Judicial District Court recently joined Newell Normand on The Newell Normand Show on WWL Radio. This monthly interview opportunity gives Chamber members and residents insight into timely issues affecting our parish. During the conversation, Sims highlighted…
Our Chamber leaders strengthened key relationships in Washington, D.C., during the 2026 Washington Mardi Gras celebration—highlighted by our Chamber’s second annual reception, “It’s a Shore Thing,” which welcomed more than 150 elected officials and business leaders from across Louisiana. Hosted in partnership with St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation and Visit The Northshore, the reception showcased…
The 2025 Tammany Award recognizes a business that demonstrated exceptional leadership and drive this past year, stands as a leader in its field and our community, and shows unwavering commitment to the welfare of St. Tammany Parish. This year, the award was presented to Southern Hotel and accepted by Lisa Condrey Ward. For more than…
The 2025 Community Leadership Award recognizes an individual who has made extraordinary contributions to improving our community’s quality of life through exemplary service. This year, we are proud to honor Carolyn Baringer as the recipient of the award. Carolyn is what many would call a quiet storm. She moves steadily behind the scenes, spinning more…
The 2025 Chairman’s Award recognizes an individual whose leadership, integrity and commitment to public service have made a meaningful impact on both the Chamber and the broader community. This year, we are proud to honor Alan Thriffiley of Taxdrop LLC with the 2025 Chairman’s Award. Over the past three years, Alan has been honored with…