John has served on the board since 2021.
He is the CEO of the top real estate team in Tangipahoa Parish. John enjoys property investing, traveling, entertaining, and fine dining. His favorite thing about Downtown Hammond is the old architecture that has created a vibrant setting for a friendly, lively, small town atmosphere.
"My favorite things to order in Downtown is the filet egg rolls at The SteaKhouse and the house-made cheesecake from Cena," says John. "Margaritas from La Caretta hit the spot as well."
"Serving on the board is important to me because I can keep a pulse on the town I now call home," explains John. "It gives me the ability to have an active role in helping to support and grow the community that I have so much pride in."
Elsbet Smith Hollywood is the current Vice Chair of the Board, serving in the Greater Hammond Chamber of Commerce Seat.
She is an attorney who lives in Downtown Hammond with her husband, Tim, and their kids, Baker and Knox. "We love walking to the Farmers Market on Saturdays, getting bubbles and a book from Bayou Booksellers, and stopping for lunch," said Elsbet. Bartleby, their beagle, even joins in on the fun!
When asked about her favorite dish to order in Downtown Hammond, Elsbet had a hard time choosing just one! "A SteaKhouse filet, an Espresso Martini from Cena, the Casual Cow from Blackened Brew, and onethirteen's Breakfast Brunch Plate... just not all in the same day!"
"The Hammond DDD is such a triumph because of the time dedicated to it by so many community members over the years," said Elsbet. "I feel that it is my honor and duty to contribute to the Hammond DDD's continued success."
Evan Singer joined the DDD Board of Directors as the Finance Chair in 2021, in the Major Assessed Property Owner Seat. He is Senior Vice President at First Guaranty Bank in Hammond, and this is his first year serving on the Board.
His favorite thing about Downtown Hammond is the architecture and landscaping. "Downtown Hammond has such a unique personality. Each facade is beautiful and maintained, and is a great representation of small businesses."
Overall, Evan is excited for the the future of Downtown Hammond: "It's important to me to give back to this amazing community that has been so good to me and to FGB. I believe in the DDD Board's vision and am excited to be a part of the team."
Fun Fact: Evan's favorite Downtown Hammond dish is an Oyster Caesar Salad from Brady's.
Cassie Ragan serves as the City of Hammond Mayor appointed seat and Design Committee Chair.
She is the owner of Ruby, which has been a #DowntownHammond staple since 2003.
Her background as an architect has led her to the Design Committee, where she will focus on improving and monitoring the look and feel of the district.
Chelsea Kessenich is part owner of Mariners of Hammond. Newly appointed in January 2023, she serves as the West Side Business/ Property Owner seat.
