Louisiana Feed Your Soul

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser

Thanks to member George Messina for catering this week’s networking event at the Rooftop on Basin.

Promoting the brand of Feed Your Soul showcasing Louisiana as a travel destination, increasing revenue generated by the tourism industry and contributing to the economic impact of tourism in all 64 parishes, Lt. Governor Nungesser shared his passion for Louisiana.

Nungesser reported that tourism is getting back to pre-COVID numbers and cited a couple of events that helped to put Louisiana back on track.  The Louisiana themed float that paraded in New York City for the 2021 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was a “home run” for the state and tourism. The Rose parade float featuring teachers of the year, firefighters of the year and others made of flowers, weeds or seeds, won awards for best show design and best florals. This year’s Rose Parade float will have a Riverboat theme, showcasing Louisiana products with 20 festival queens who will talk about the area they represent. Nungesser was proud to say that following the parades there were a record number of visitors for Mardi Gras around the state, particularly in Shreveport.
Other events such as Jazz Fest 2022 was supported by the Lieutenant Governors office that donated one million dollars to avoid cancelation due to lack of funding. Fairs and festivals enjoyed record breaking attendance. Nungesser added that there are incentives available for those who hire local musicians for events.
Nungesser encouraged all to visit the state parks. His team is working to revamp some parks to keep from closing. “Glamping” areas have proved to be financial winners bringing in a half million dollars profit. Mountain bike and horse trails are also being maintained and are ranked the #2 trail in the country. Bogue Chittto Park is adding a splash pad and special needs facilities enhancements.
In an attempt to change Louisiana’s culture as it relates to the litter problem, kids are being trained to help change the Louisiana culture. Trash barrels are being added to 20 or so interstate entry ramps to encourage disposing of trash properly. The LT. Gov. office will kick off 2023 with a Clean Louisiana promotion.

Membership

If you have a prospect, please have them connect with Jacquie Bonano, membership chair at membership@gnoea.com

Thank You & Announcements

Richard Juge, ReMAXX, thanked Jesse Hoppes, Leaaf Environmental for bidding on a Florida property.

Board Meeting to follow today’s meeting.

Upcoming Meeting Schedule

  • November 15th – Dr. Tina Tinney, Chancellor, Nunez Community College and Board Meeting
  • November 22nd – Thanksgiving Week no meeting
  • November 29th – No Meeting
  • November 30th – Social – Stumpy’s Hatchet House – 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. – Reservations required
  • December 6th – TBA
  • December 15th – Christmas Party hosted by M/M Todd Clower

Check website for updates and bulletins that include upcoming events. Meeting events are on the calendar.