The Greater Shreveport Chamber honored Heard, McElroy, & Vestal, LLC. (HMV) as the Industry of the Year recipient at the annual J. Pat Beaird Industry of the Year and Top Businesses Luncheon, held on Sept. 26, 2019, at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino.
For over 73 years, HMV has maintained a reputation for accounting excellence and high ethical standards earning the confidence of their clients through the core values of commitment, integrity, teamwork and people. HMV has been an integral part of the growth and development of the business communities located throughout North Louisiana. The firm is in its fourth-generation of leadership and continues to build toward the future.
The J. Pat Beaird Memorial Industry of the Year award pays tribute to the memory of J. Pat Beaird, who devoted his life to community service, and helped make Shreveport and the State of Louisiana a more wonderful place to live and work. Beaird was the driving force behind many operations and organizations in our region. He was an active member of the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, where he served on the Industrial Development Council in the 1940s and was instrumental in many initiatives that shaped northwest Louisiana.
The Greater Shreveport Chamber also presented the 318Forum Top Businesses of the Year Award to a select group of local companies which exemplify a culture of professional excellence.
“This year’s winners make an impressive group,” said Dr. Timothy Magner, President of the Greater Shreveport Chamber. “Competition was fierce this year and each of the companies nominated operate sustainable, economically impactful businesses. Though it was a difficult decision, the volunteer committee chose eight, which excelled in the various criterion.”
The 2019 recipients for Top Businesses of the Year are Bookkeepers on the Geaux, LifeShare Blood Centers, Red River Brewing Company, Richard Creative, LLC, SB Magazine, Inc., Shreveport Security Systems, Wieland Corporation, and Young Professionals Entertainment, LLC.
The award presentation concluded with “Life Lessons from Twin, Former Navy SEALs” keynote speaker Marcus Luttrell. Marcus joined the Navy in 1999 and became a combat-trained SEAL in 2002. He is the author of a best-selling book and his story served as the inspiration for the 2014 movie Lone Survivor that recounts the harrowing story of Operation Redwing. The movie as well as his Lone Survivor Foundation serves as a tribute to his friends and teammates that did not survive.
His life has been distinguished by rising to the occasion and working to better his community. Through an honest conversation about facing challenges head-on and overcoming adversity, Marcus offered us life lessons for both personal and professional success.
You can see photos of the winners here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/148343737@N08/albums/72157711084570101
