Outstanding business, employee honored

Gary and Laura Matte were named co-recipients of the 2015 Outstanding Business Person of the Year and Lilly “Raine’ Rhodes were honored as the 2015 Outstanding Employee of the Year during the second annual Rayne Business Appreciation Night Thursday, March 5.
The evening also included the installation of 2015-2016 Chamber of Commerce board members and officers.
In announcing the Mattes, President Jimmy Prevost noted they started building homes in 1987, opened their business in Rayne in 1991 and opened Gary Matte Lumber Yard in 2001.
Prevost noted today the business team specializes in metal, hardware, cookware, dumpsters, demolition and dirt service.
This year’s employee of the year was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico and became a citizen of Rayne in 2005. She is currently the membership coordinator for Cajun Fitness.
Rhodes’ parents in New Mexico were able to experience their daughters’s acceptance of the award via a cell phone connection.
District Judge David Smith installed the incoming Chamber of Commerce directors and officers, including Jimmy Prevost, Jena Bordes, Cynthia Houston, Tiffany Thibodeaux, Suzette Leonards, Anna Colligan, Nikki Link and Jeremy Lavergne.
Retiring board members Colin Burnum and Michelle Johnson were also recognized with plaques for their service on the board of directors.
In his welcoming remarks Mayor Chuck Robichaux noted he and the City Council are working on several “really big business prospects,” and indicated the city could see major growth in the next 12 months.
The mayor also took the opportunity to encourage his audience of business people to contribute their efforts to the Cleanest City campaign. He also complimented the city employees for their service to the community.
Jimmy Prevost reviewed the events and accomplishments of the Chamber during the past year. He also reported a continued need for fund-raising support of the Chamber, noting membership dues provide 13 percent financial support, while the Frog Festival and Mardi Gras Ball financially contribute 44 and 32 percent, respectively.
Prevost also commended Executive Director Fran Bihm’s efforts to increase membership from 49 to 94 in the past year.
Frog Festival chairman Jeremy Lavergne announced the festival May 6-9 will feature cast members of the Swamp People television show as honorary parade marshals.
Deacon Daniel Besse gave the evening’s invocation and benediction while members of Boy Scout Troop 61 posted the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive Director Fran Bihm served as program emcee.