The North Rapides Business & Industry Alliance hosted its July meeting with a full agenda recognizing community leaders, educators and local organizations.
During the meeting, the alliance presented Louisiana Christian University President Dr. Mark Johnson with a resolution unanimously adopted by the Louisiana Legislature recognizing the university’s 120th anniversary and its impact on the state and community.
The organization also welcomed members of the newly elected Pineville City Council and recognized former council members for their years of service.
Rapides Parish Superintendent Jeff Powell joined the alliance in recognizing three educators for statewide honors:
- Michelle Blaney of Buckeye High School, Louisiana High School Teacher of the Year.
- Christy Dugas of J.I. Barron Elementary, Elementary Principal of the Year semifinalist.
- Sarah Corley of LSU Alexandria, Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year.
Attendees also heard updates from Pineville Mayor Joe Bishop, Ball Mayor Gail Wilking and Woodworth Mayor David Butler, along with a weather forecast from Tom Konvicka of Cenla Weather.
The alliance welcomed first-time guest Bulletproof Outfitters of Pineville and received reports from CLECO and the England Authority, as well as announcements of candidacies for School Board and judiciary positions during the community roundtable.
Rapides Parish District Attorney Phillip Terrell served as the featured speaker, presenting on the accomplishments of his office and its efforts to keep communities safe. The alliance recognized Terrell’s public service, which has included serving as Pineville city attorney, prosecutor, Pineville city judge and district attorney.
The North Rapides Business & Industry Alliance also announced its next meeting will be held Monday, Aug. 24, and will feature Camp Beauregard and the Louisiana National Guard with guest speaker Major General Thomas C. Friloux, adjutant general of the Louisiana National Guard.