Julio Melara

3 weeks ago | businessreport.com | Julio Melara |Penny Font

There’s a quiet momentum building in Baton Rouge—and it’s time we lean into it, not shy away. Initiatives to elevate our downtown riverfront through Plan Baton Rouge III, build a new arena at LSU, reimagine the Raising Cane’s River Center and redevelop the Memorial Park complex are setting the stage for something big. These aren’t just isolated projects—they’re powerful opportunities to reshape our community, redefine what’s possible, and chart a new course for the Capital Region.

Feb 4, 2025 | businessreport.com | Julio Melara |Oscar Tickle

Baton Rouge: It’s time to wake up, look in the mirror, and ask, “Why not us?”Right now, we’re standing at a crossroads, and the choices we make today will define the future for generations. Do we keep doing what we’ve always done—playing it safe, thinking small, and settling for less? Or do we grab this moment by the horns and aim for greatness? Baton Rouge has missed too many opportunities in the past. I say it’s time to THINK BIG. Transformation is right in front of us.

Feb 29, 2024 | businessreport.com | Julio Melara - |Julio Melara |Oscar Tickle

Innovation isn’t just a buzzword. By definition, it is designed to create significant improvements or create new value in the market to maintain competitiveness, adapt to changing market dynamics and meet evolving customer needs. But true innovation also inspires growth, resilience and transformation in our community. This year’s Business Awards and Hall of Fame honorees certainly embody that spirit of innovation.

Jan 29, 2024 | businessreport.com | Julio Melara - |Julio Melara

In the heart of our Capital Region, there’s a city filled with promise and typical challenges faced by any American metropolis. It’s time for us to wake up collectively, shift our mindset from complaints to solutions, and appreciate the assets and opportunities that make our city unique. Of course, we have challenges that we have to overcome. But unfortunately, a good majority of people who work and live here have parked there. Complaining and whining but not engaging or getting involved.

Sep 8, 2023 | businessreport.com | Julio Melara - |Julio Melara

In the September edition of the Business Report, our cover story zeroes in on LSU’s pioneering role in NIL (name, image, and likeness) for college athletes. However, it represents just one facet of the remarkable momentum underway at our state’s flagship university. In my 27 years here, I have never witnessed such a convergence of excellence across academics, athletics, research, and community engagement.