Chamber honors Lafourche businesses

Over 100 business professionals gathered last night for The Chamber of Lafourche & Bayou Region’s annual awards banquet in Larose.

The Chamber of Lafourche & Bayou Region is a non-profit organization that unites businesses and professionals from across Lafourche parish and Grand Isle. The Chamber’s central goal is to strengthen investment and business opportunities across the region.

At last night’s event, one business and four professionals were honored for the contributions they have made to the area over the past year.

Lonnie Thibodeaux, former chamber chairman, emceed the banquet and read from a nomination letter as he presented the Chamber’s first award. “With shovels in hand, an unprecedented gathering of local, state and federal leaders turned dirt in march of this year for one of the most anticipated infrastructure projects in the state n the LA 1 improvement project.”

Thibodeaux said that this project would have never been realized without the extreme determination of the LA 1 Coalition. The Chamber awarded the LA 1 Coalition with the Business & Industry Award for being the driving force behind the $1 billion infrastructure project.

The organization’s executive director, Henri Boulet, accepted the award on behalf of the Coalition. “This award is for all of you, the businesses, community leaders and community members, you are the backbone of an incredible endeavor. Not only is your financial support making it happen but all the letters and public-will have made this happen,” he said.

Thibodeaux announced the next award with a caveat in hand. He said the Business Person of the Year award generally goes to a business owner who has gone beyond the usual realm of business operation, but this year it’s going to an executive director who has helped develop one of the most fecund ports in the nation. The recipient of the Business Person of the Year was Ted Falgout, executive director of Port Fourchon.

Falgout said Port Fourchon’s success wouldn’t be as great as it is without the commitment of the commission and the dedicated staff that implements the commission’s decisions.

“As most of you know I am planning to retire soon,” Falgout said. “I want you to know that I leave this organization with a well oiled machine. We have an excellent blend of youth, talent, dedication and experience, and I feel confident that under a new director and a supportive board, they can bring the port higher than it has ever been before.”

The Education Award was given to Gesele Adams of Larose Elementary School. Thibodeaux read from her nomination letter before she accepted the award “Every child, every parent, every staff member has been touched by working with Mrs. Gesele Adams… [she] is definitely a master teacher, and she is the best teacher I have known.”

Adams accepted her award and directed attention to a looming concern of the Parish school system. Lafourche Parish schools are in need of teachers. Adams reflected on some of her experiences teaching throughout the years in hopes that her memories would “make a difference and let people see teaching in a positive way.” She encouraged the attendees to talk to university students and encourage them to consider entering the world of teaching.

Ambassador of the Year award was designated for one of the Chamber Ambassadors. This year’s honor was bestowed upon Susan Wolverton.

The Community Hero Award, one of the most prestigious awards to be granted at the event pays a tribute to an individual who has displayed continual service throughout the years to the betterment of the communities of Lafourche and Grand Isle.

This year’s recipient was Curtis “Chic” Martin. Thibodeaux said that this year’s winner was more than deserving. “He’s been a Tarpon, a Tiger, and even a Saint. He is someone who has dedicated his entire life to making South Lafourche the best that it can be. No one has accomplished so much, after overcoming so much and in the meantime inspiring so many, as Mr. Curtis ‘Chic’ Martin.”

An emotional Martin took the stage and accepted his award. “I can’t believe I am getting an award for the things that I love to do,” Martin said, his eyes watering. He thanked everybody for the recognition and admitted that he was caught off guard by the surprise.

“Tonight I’m short on words, when usually I have a lot to say. I accept this award with a lot humility,” he said. Martin continued to thank everyone who has helped him achieve so much. He drew special attention to his wife as he thanked her for many years of support.