Chamber directors discuss Mardi Gras, financials

A number of end-of-the year items were discussed during the January 14th meeting of the Rayne Chamber of Commcerce, with the 2015 annual Mardi Gras Ball and financials leading the discussion.
Ticket sales and interest for the 2015 Rayne Grande Court Mardi Gras Ball presented by the Rayne Chamber headlined the Chamber reports.
Tiffany Gossen of Thibodeaux and Company presented the 2014 year end review including expenses and income for the Chamber. As noted, it was explained with graphs and charts the following revenue: Frog Festival 44%, Grande Ball 32%, Membership Dues 13%, other 11%.
Fran Bihm gave the director’s report including a number of events she attended during the month of December and start of January.
Bihm also included a short report of the ongoing membership drive presently taking place. Chamber members were reminded to renew their memberships for the 2015 year. It is her hope to make an increase in members again this year.
Jena Bordes reminded everyone of additions and suggestions for the Chamber’s website.
Bihm addressed the upcoming 2015 Frog Festival slated for May 7-9, with a committee meeting slated Jan. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at the Chamber Office. She noted bands have been booked and plans are constantly being finalized for the big weekend.
Under new business, President Jimmy Prevost presented a special plaque of appreciation to Mayor Roland Boudreaux in appreciation for his assistance to the Chamber while he was mayor.
Nominations for new board members are now due with new offices to be voted upon during the February meeting. Due to time restraints, the executive committee will meet soon on the subject.
State Representative Jack Montoucet gave a brief explanation of the ongoing projects that are affecting this area, including re-surfacing Highway 90 and other roads needing repairs, health care issues, the state’s shortfall with the upcoming budget, and the loss of jobs due to the drop in fuel prices.
“This will be a tough year,” Moutoucet explained. “I don’t forsee any new taxes, so we will have to tighten our belts and ride it out until things adjust. Changes are needed - from the bottom to the top.”
Announcements included: Business After Hours Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. at Best Western Rayne Inn, Brown’s Hearing Center at Chamber on Jan. 21 for free screening, Frog Festival Committee meeting Jan. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at Chamber, new Chamber officers to be elected at February meeting on Feb. 4th.
The meeting was adjourned and a lunch was provided by Al Olivier Computer Services.