Bossier Press-Tribune Online

The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau welcomes its new officers and members for the 2013 Board of Directors. New board members include Chloe’ Duplessis of Chloe Duplessis Consulting, appointed by the African American Chamber of Commerce; and Patricia Wooldridge, appointed by Caddo Rural Municipalities.

Duplessis and Wooldridge replace outgoing members Frederick Henson and Kathy Jackson, respectively, in accordance with term limits. Board members can serve a maximum of two consecutive three-year terms. “Despite challenging times for the hospitality industry, the 2012 board remained strong and efficient in making tough decisions. Thanks to their efforts, programs were put into place to assist and enhance attractions, as well as drive hotel room occupancy,” Tourist Bureau President Stacy Brown said.   

Past vice chairman Betty Matthews will serve as 2013 chairman and Jerry Kolniak as vice chairman. Additional officers include Luke Turner, immediate past chairman; Mary Dunn, treasurer; Sherry Stuckey, secretary. Additional members include Ray Ferland, Inki Shaver, Tom Lubbe, Matthew Shupbach, Mark Garrett, Debra Hamilton, Tommy Clark, Ray Tromba, Jim Johnson and Tari Bradford. “We look forward to seeing the board continue to tackle tourism-related issues in 2013, which is expected to include a slow recovery with small growth in oil and gas, and the film industry, strong sports and defense markets, and a resurgence of the automobile industry,”  Brown said.

The first meeting will be Jan. 17 at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. Meetings are normally held the third Thursday of every month at 11:30 a.m. in the bureau’s board room at 629 Spring Street in Shreveport. Dates and times are subject to change.