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Feature: Getting Past the Mid-Summer Hump

 

Getting Past
the Mid-Summer
Hump

Written by Carolyn Scalfano

 

 

LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature

Getting Past the Mid-Summer Hump

Written by Carolyn Scalfano

Happy Summer, Louisiana. The heat index in my area was 113 degrees every day last week. As my little one wiggles around in my bed before sunrise, my brain begins to flicker on: “What on earth are we going to do all day?”  Some say that freedom is both a blessing and a curse. Summer is the time to slow down and take in the world around you, but for some of us, both young and old, the lack of routine can lead to fear of the unknown, overthinking, and overlooking life’s little joys.  

I want to follow that personal anecdote with some advice I rely on frequently. Some may agree or disagree with its accuracy, but reflecting on these assertions has helped me relax in the last few weeks. I listened to a woman speak about the concept called “Let it Happen.”  It’s like Elsa’s concept of “Let it Go.” But on a serious note, the view of “Letting it Happen” is rooted in a belief system centered around acceptance.

 “Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing, or situation—some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing, or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment.”  -Bill W.

When we go into situations with expectations, and things don’t turn out as planned, it can cause disappointment, the judgment of ourselves or others, and even anger and resentment. A relatable example of this is the one and only “family vacation.”  The anticipation for sun and fun is sometimes quickly outshined by agitation and stress and often ended in discord. A personal example of acceptance in action would be my son and I trying to make it to school on time. No matter how early I rose, there were days last year when my son and I missed his preschool drop-off time. Why is that, you ask? Well… it could be that I didn’t have the right shirt ready for him, he had misplaced his folder, or maybe his shoes didn’t feel right that morning. These are the days I just had to “Let it Happen.”   If we missed his drop-off time, I would have to bring him to school, which created a ripple effect, causing me to be late to my school as well. As much as my internal impulse was to panic and immediately envision the worst (people talking about my tardiness, professional repercussions, etc.), I had the opportunity to choose acceptance. I just let it happen, and everything was fine. In fact, the few mornings that I dropped my son in the car rider line at his school were a rare opportunity to make fond memories that we shared during his first year in school.

If you are wondering how to get your kids through the mid-summer hump and prepare them for school to start in the fall, may I suggest a few things to try and remember during our last weeks of vacation? Allow yourself and your loved ones to be comfortable. Stick to a simple schedule. Don’t pressure yourself or your loved ones to do it all today. Make fun your priority. Reflect on your progress. Take time to slow down. You and any little people in your home find ways to ride the waves of your feelings. And most of all, don’t hesitate to ask for help.  

Here are a few ideas to help your days flow, incorporate routine, and encourage fun and imaginative play into your daily routine.

Drive Past Your Kids’ School
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature01

This is an opportunity to reminisce about good memories and also talk through any traumatic events of the past school year.

Summer Reading
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature02
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature03

Join your local library summer reading program, tackle that summer reading list for next year, or just read with your kid whenever!  Dinner time, bath time, and bedtime are three great opportunities to squeeze in some reading just for fun.

Make Playdates with Peers
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature04
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature05

We are lucky enough to have neighbors and cousins that we make it a point to spend time with.  Social emotional growth and awareness is critical for healthy developmental skills in children, and you will not and cannot find this type of interaction on a screen.

Add A New Responsibility Before School Starts
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature06
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature07

I hung a dry erase calendar in my son’s room on which we write past and future activities.  He crosses out the days as they pass.  A calendar helps young children learn the basics of the days of the week and the months of the year, but even more, for my son, it helps him to feel secure when he wakes up daily because he knows what to expect.  He can also mentally review past activities, which promotes a sense of accomplishment.

Create A Home Workspace
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature08
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature09
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature10

We have several spots in our home where my son knows that it is ok for him to “make a mess.”  An art desk, a box of sand in our garage, and a calm corner are just three examples of spaces that promote independence and the opportunity for imaginative play.

Get a Clock/Timer
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature11
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature12

Having a visual to help little minds understand the concept of time is the gift that keeps on giving.  It works for dinner, cleanup, bath, bed, and ESPECIALLY screen time.  

I hope these are some helpful tips for the remaining weeks of summer.  Best of luck for our new school year!

Sincerely,
Carolyn Scalfano

 

LFF_FirstLady2023

Blog – July 2023

lovin-louisiana-logo-magazine-white

BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

It’s July Already!

July 2023

As a part of our social media presence, my staff and I often research and discuss holidays and observance days in each month. There are usually so many awareness and celebration days each month. The large amount of these days sparked some thought on awareness. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of awareness. It’s incredible how a little knowledge can go a long way in bringing problems in our society to the surface. I spend a good amount of time bringing awareness to each of my initiatives.

Some of these “awareness days” can spark joy, laughter, and even some surprises in our daily routines. So, grab a cool glass of sweet tea, sit back, and let’s dive into some of the more lighthearted and perhaps more obscure holidays and observance days that grace the month of July! You can see a complete list here.

LFF_Blog_2023_FirstLady

July 15: National Ice Cream Day
Who can resist the creamy goodness of ice cream? This day is a perfect excuse to indulge in our favorite frozen treat and share the joy with friends and family. Whether you’re team chocolate, vanilla, or something more exotic, take a moment to savor every sweet bite.

July 22: National Hammock Day
Imagine swaying gently in a cozy hammock in the warm Louisiana breeze as you blissfully relax. It’s a day dedicated to embracing leisure and tranquility. So, find the nearest pair of sturdy trees, grab a good book, and let yourself unwind in the comforting embrace of a hammock.

July 30: National Cheesecake Day:
Calling all dessert enthusiasts! Take a break from the heat and treat yourself to a slice of luscious cheesecake. The rich flavors and velvety texture will transport your taste buds to dessert heaven! Add some Louisiana strawberries, too!

July 30: International Day of Friendship
Let’s remember the importance of friendship. On this day, reach out to your loved ones, near and far, and let them know how much they mean to you. Share stories, laughter, and memories, for true friendships are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives together.

Taking the time to appreciate the little things and celebrate the holidays and observance days of July. These days can add some much-needed lightheartedness and fun to our routines. So, fellow Louisianans, let’s embrace all holidays and find joy in National Ice Cream Day, relax on National Hammock Day, indulge in cheesecake on National Cheesecake Day, and celebrate the bonds of friendship on the International Day of Friendship. Life is too short to miss the sweet and fun moments  that make it truly remarkable!

Enjoy the rest of July!

Love to all,

LFF_blog_signature
LFF_Blog_July2023_BibleVerse

It’s July Already!

July 2023

LFF_Blog_2023_FirstLady

 

As a part of our social media presence, my staff and I often research and discuss holidays and observance days in each month. There are usually so many awareness and celebration days each month. The large amount of these days sparked some thought on awareness. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of awareness. It’s incredible how a little knowledge can go a long way in bringing problems in our society to the surface. I spend a good amount of time bringing awareness to each of my initiatives.

Some of these “awareness days” can spark joy, laughter, and even some surprises in our daily routines. So, grab a cool glass of sweet tea, sit back, and let’s dive into some of the more lighthearted and perhaps more obscure holidays and observance days that grace the month of July! You can see a complete list here.

July 15: National Ice Cream Day
Who can resist the creamy goodness of ice cream? This day is a perfect excuse to indulge in our favorite frozen treat and share the joy with friends and family. Whether you’re team chocolate, vanilla, or something more exotic, take a moment to savor every sweet bite.

July 22: National Hammock Day
Imagine swaying gently in a cozy hammock in the warm Louisiana breeze as you blissfully relax. It’s a day dedicated to embracing leisure and tranquility. So, find the nearest pair of sturdy trees, grab a good book, and let yourself unwind in the comforting embrace of a hammock.

July 30: National Cheesecake Day:
Calling all dessert enthusiasts! Take a break from the heat and treat yourself to a slice of luscious cheesecake. The rich flavors and velvety texture will transport your taste buds to dessert heaven! Add some Louisiana strawberries, too!

July 30: International Day of Friendship
Let’s remember the importance of friendship. On this day, reach out to your loved ones, near and far, and let them know how much they mean to you. Share stories, laughter, and memories, for true friendships are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives together.

Taking the time to appreciate the little things and celebrate the holidays and observance days of July. These days can add some much-needed lightheartedness and fun to our routines. So, fellow Louisianans, let’s embrace all holidays and find joy in National Ice Cream Day, relax on National Hammock Day, indulge in cheesecake on National Cheesecake Day, and celebrate the bonds of friendship on the International Day of Friendship. Life is too short to miss the sweet and fun moments  that make it truly remarkable!

Enjoy the rest of July!

Love to all,

LFF_blog_signature
LFF_Blog_July2023_BibleVerse
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FEATURE

Getting Past the Mid-Summer Hump

Carolyn Scalfano

Happy Summer, Louisiana. The heat index in my area was 113 degrees every day last week. As my little one wiggles around in my bed before sunrise, my brain begins to flicker on: “What on earth are we going to do all day?”  Some say that freedom is both a blessing and a curse. Summer is the time to slow down and take in the world around you, but for some of us, both young and old, the lack of routine can lead to fear of the unknown, overthinking, and overlooking life’s little joys.  

I want to follow that personal anecdote with some advice I rely on frequently. Some may agree or disagree with its accuracy, but reflecting on these assertions has helped me relax in the last few weeks. I listened to a woman speak about the concept called “Let it Happen.”  It’s like Elsa’s concept of “Let it Go.” But on a serious note, the view of “Letting it Happen” is rooted in a belief system centered around acceptance.

LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature

 “Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing, or situation—some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing, or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment.”  -Bill W.

When we go into situations with expectations, and things don’t turn out as planned, it can cause disappointment, the judgment of ourselves or others, and even anger and resentment. A relatable example of this is the one and only “family vacation.”  The anticipation for sun and fun is sometimes quickly outshined by agitation and stress and often ended in discord. A personal example of acceptance in action would be my son and I trying to make it to school on time. No matter how early I rose, there were days last year when my son and I missed his preschool drop-off time. Why is that, you ask? Well… it could be that I didn’t have the right shirt ready for him, he had misplaced his folder, or maybe his shoes didn’t feel right that morning. These are the days I just had to “Let it Happen.”   If we missed his drop-off time, I would have to bring him to school, which created a ripple effect, causing me to be late to my school as well. As much as my internal impulse was to panic and immediately envision the worst (people talking about my tardiness, professional repercussions, etc.), I had the opportunity to choose acceptance. I just let it happen, and everything was fine. In fact, the few mornings that I dropped my son in the car rider line at his school were a rare opportunity to make fond memories that we shared during his first year in school.

If you are wondering how to get your kids through the mid-summer hump and prepare them for school to start in the fall, may I suggest a few things to try and remember during our last weeks of vacation? Allow yourself and your loved ones to be comfortable. Stick to a simple schedule. Don’t pressure yourself or your loved ones to do it all today. Make fun your priority. Reflect on your progress. Take time to slow down. You and any little people in your home find ways to ride the waves of your feelings. And most of all, don’t hesitate to ask for help.  

Here are a few ideas to help your days flow, incorporate routine, and encourage fun and imaginative play into your daily routine.

Drive Past Your Kids’ School
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature01

This is an opportunity to reminisce about good memories and also talk through any traumatic events of the past school year.

Summer Reading
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature02
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature03

Join your local library summer reading program, tackle that summer reading list for next year, or just read with your kid whenever!  Dinner time, bath time, and bedtime are three great opportunities to squeeze in some reading just for fun.

Make Playdates with Peers
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature04
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature05

We are lucky enough to have neighbors and cousins that we make it a point to spend time with.  Social emotional growth and awareness is critical for healthy developmental skills in children, and you will not and cannot find this type of interaction on a screen.

Add A New Responsibility Before School Starts
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature06
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature07

I hung a dry erase calendar in my son’s room on which we write past and future activities.  He crosses out the days as they pass.  A calendar helps young children learn the basics of the days of the week and the months of the year, but even more, for my son, it helps him to feel secure when he wakes up daily because he knows what to expect.  He can also mentally review past activities, which promotes a sense of accomplishment.

Create A Home Workspace
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature08
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature09
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature10

We have several spots in our home where my son knows that it is ok for him to “make a mess.”  An art desk, a box of sand in our garage, and a calm corner are just three examples of spaces that promote independence and the opportunity for imaginative play.

Get a Clock/Timer
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature11
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature12

Having a visual to help little minds understand the concept of time is the gift that keeps on giving.  It works for dinner, cleanup, bath, bed, and ESPECIALLY screen time.  

I hope these are some helpful tips for the remaining weeks of summer.  Best of luck for our new school year!

Sincerely,
Carolyn Scalfano

 

FEATURE

Getting Past the Mid-Summer Hump

Carolyn Scalfano

LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature

Happy Summer, Louisiana. The heat index in my area was 113 degrees every day last week. As my little one wiggles around in my bed before sunrise, my brain begins to flicker on: “What on earth are we going to do all day?”  Some say that freedom is both a blessing and a curse. Summer is the time to slow down and take in the world around you, but for some of us, both young and old, the lack of routine can lead to fear of the unknown, overthinking, and overlooking life’s little joys.  

I want to follow that personal anecdote with some advice I rely on frequently. Some may agree or disagree with its accuracy, but reflecting on these assertions has helped me relax in the last few weeks. I listened to a woman speak about the concept called “Let it Happen.”  It’s like Elsa’s concept of “Let it Go.” But on a serious note, the view of “Letting it Happen” is rooted in a belief system centered around acceptance.

 “Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing, or situation—some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing, or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment.”  -Bill W.

When we go into situations with expectations, and things don’t turn out as planned, it can cause disappointment, the judgment of ourselves or others, and even anger and resentment. A relatable example of this is the one and only “family vacation.”  The anticipation for sun and fun is sometimes quickly outshined by agitation and stress and often ended in discord. A personal example of acceptance in action would be my son and I trying to make it to school on time. No matter how early I rose, there were days last year when my son and I missed his preschool drop-off time. Why is that, you ask? Well… it could be that I didn’t have the right shirt ready for him, he had misplaced his folder, or maybe his shoes didn’t feel right that morning. These are the days I just had to “Let it Happen.”   If we missed his drop-off time, I would have to bring him to school, which created a ripple effect, causing me to be late to my school as well. As much as my internal impulse was to panic and immediately envision the worst (people talking about my tardiness, professional repercussions, etc.), I had the opportunity to choose acceptance. I just let it happen, and everything was fine. In fact, the few mornings that I dropped my son in the car rider line at his school were a rare opportunity to make fond memories that we shared during his first year in school.

If you are wondering how to get your kids through the mid-summer hump and prepare them for school to start in the fall, may I suggest a few things to try and remember during our last weeks of vacation? Allow yourself and your loved ones to be comfortable. Stick to a simple schedule. Don’t pressure yourself or your loved ones to do it all today. Make fun your priority. Reflect on your progress. Take time to slow down. You and any little people in your home find ways to ride the waves of your feelings. And most of all, don’t hesitate to ask for help.  

Here are a few ideas to help your days flow, incorporate routine, and encourage fun and imaginative play into your daily routine.

Drive past your kids’ school
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature01

This is an opportunity to reminisce about good memories and also talk through any traumatic events of the past school year.

Summer Reading
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature02
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature03

Join your local library summer reading program, tackle that summer reading list for next year, or just read with your kid whenever!  Dinner time, bath time, and bedtime are three great opportunities to squeeze in some reading just for fun.

Make Playdates with Peers
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature04
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature05

We are lucky enough to have neighbors and cousins that we make it a point to spend time with.  Social emotional growth and awareness is critical for healthy developmental skills in children, and you will not and cannot find this type of interaction on a screen.

Add A New Responsibility Before School Starts
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature06
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature07

I hung a dry erase calendar in my son’s room on which we write past and future activities.  He crosses out the days as they pass.  A calendar helps young children learn the basics of the days of the week and the months of the year, but even more, for my son, it helps him to feel secure when he wakes up daily because he knows what to expect.  He can also mentally review past activities, which promotes a sense of accomplishment.

Create A Home Workspace
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature08
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature09
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature10

We have several spots in our home where my son knows that it is ok for him to “make a mess.”  An art desk, a box of sand in our garage, and a calm corner are just three examples of spaces that promote independence and the opportunity for imaginative play.

Get a Clock/Timer
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature11
LFF_Blog_July2023_Feature12

Having a visual to help little minds understand the concept of time is the gift that keeps on giving.  It works for dinner, cleanup, bath, bed, and ESPECIALLY screen time.  

I hope these are some helpful tips for the remaining weeks of summer.  Best of luck for our new school year!

Sincerely,
Carolyn Scalfano

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LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

teach-mam-beige

July Is a Blind Date with Summer

Teach Mam
fosters-beige

Royal Family Kids Camps

Louisiana Fosters
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The FREE Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Louisiana

Human Trafficking

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

It’s Christmas in July at the Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation!
Buy any ornament and get 10% off your total purchase for the whole month of July. Your discount is automatically applied at checkout. Get ahead of your Christmas shopping now and order the 2023 ornament! For information or questions about store items, contact PreserveLAGovernorsmansion@gmail.com

Order the 2023 Ornament
LFF_Blog_July2023_GovMansion
Visit the Governor's Mansion Store
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Women’s Health

Be Intentional and Informed About Women’s Health Screenings

by Kimiyo Harris Williams, MD, FAAP

Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Division of Ambulatory Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine at LSU School of Medicine

LFF_Blog_June2023_WomensHealthBio

As women, we are busy caring for our children, spouses or significant other, and or aging parents. This article is a “Sister to Sister” reminder to add regular health screenings to your “To Do” List. We should all visit our physician regularly for a wellness check even if you are feeling great. The US Preventive Services Task Force publishes a list of recommended screenings as a guide. Listed below are screening recommendations for women based on age.

BLOOD PRESSURE
Ages 18 to 39

Your blood pressure should be checked at least once every 3 to 5 years if:

  • Your blood pressure is in the normal range (top number less than 120 mm Hg and bottom number less than 80 mm Hg)
  • You don’t have risk factors for high blood pressure

Your blood pressure should be checked every year if any of the following are true:

Age 40-64

  • The top number is 120 to 129 mm Hg or the bottom number is 70 to 79 mm Hg
  • You have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, are overweight, or have certain other health conditions
  • You have a first-degree relative with high blood pressure
  • You are Black
  • You had high blood pressure during a pregnancy

If the top number is 130 mm Hg or greater or the bottom number is 80 mm Hg or greater, this is considered stage 1 hypertension. Schedule an appointment with your provider to learn how you can reduce your blood pressure.

BREAST CANCER SCREENING

Ages 18 to 39

  • Experts do not agree about the benefits of breast self-exams in finding breast cancer or saving lives. Talk to your provider about what is best for you.
  • Screening mammogram is not recommended for most women under age 40.

Your provider may discuss and recommend mammograms, MRI scans, or ultrasounds if you have an increased risk for breast cancer, such as:

  • A mother or sister who had breast cancer at a young age (most often starting screening earlier than the age the close relative was diagnosed
  • You carry a high-risk genetic marker

Ages 40 to 64

Screening mammogram is recommended for:

  • Women ages 40 to 49 every 1 to 2 years. However, not all experts agree about the benefits of having a mammogram when women are in their 40s. Talk to your provider about what is best for you.
  • Women ages 50 to 75 every 1 to 2 years, depending on their risk factors, to check for breast cancer.
  • Women with a mother or sister who had breast cancer at a younger age should consider yearly mammograms. They should begin screening earlier than the age at which their youngest family member was diagnosed.

If you have other risk factors for breast cancer, your provider may recommend a MRI scan for screening.

CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING

Ages 18 to 64

Cervical cancer screening should start at age 21 years.

After the first test:

  • Women ages 21 through 29 should have a Pap test every 3 years. HPV testing is not recommended for this age group.
  • Women ages 30 through 65 should be screened with either a Pap test every 3 years, or the HPV test every 5 years, or both tests every 5 years (called “co-testing”).
  • Women who have been treated for precancer (cervical dysplasia) should continue to have Pap tests for 20 years after treatment or until age 65, whichever is longer.
  • If you have had your uterus and cervix removed (total hysterectomy), and you have not been diagnosed with cervical cancer, you may not need to have Pap smears.

CHOLESTEROL SCREENING

Cholesterol screening should begin at:

  • Age 45 for women with no known risk factors for coronary heart disease
  • Age 20 for women with known risk factors for coronary heart disease (Ages 18-39)
  • Age 40 -45 for women with known risk factors for coronary heart disease (Ages 40-64)

Repeat cholesterol screening should take place:

  • Every 5 years for women with normal cholesterol levels
  • More often if changes occur in lifestyle (including weight gain and diet)
  • More often if you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions

DIABETES SCREENING

You should be screened for diabetes starting at age 35 and then repeated every 3 years if you have no risk factors for diabetes.

Screening may need to start earlier and be repeated more often if you have other risk factors for diabetes such as:

  • You have a first degree relative with diabetes.
  • You are overweight or have obesity.
  • You have high blood pressure, prediabetes, or a history of heart disease.

Screening for diabetes should be done if you are planning to become pregnant and you are overweight and have other risk factors such as high blood pressure.

These recommendations and additional screening guidelines are from the sources listed below.

Be intentional and Informed in your journey to wellness and good health my sisters.

“Self-love is Healthy Living.”

 Sources: 1.  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007462.htm
                2.  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007467.htm

Read More...
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People of
Louisiana

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Elise Frederic<br> SCHOOLS

Elise Frederic
SCHOOLS

Veterans Benefits <br> MILITARY

Veterans Benefits
MILITARY

Women - Armed Forces <br> COMMUNITY

Women - Armed Forces
COMMUNITY

SCHOOLS

Elise Frederic

SCHOOLS
MILITARY

Veterans Benefits

MILITARY
COMMUNITY

Honoring Women in the Armed Forces

COMMUNITY

WATERMELON FETA SALAD

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

Sweeten up your summer with this refreshing recipe – perfect for Louisiana pool days!

LFF_Blog_July2023_WatermelonFeta
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Memorable Verse

July 2023

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THE FIRST DOGS

July 2023

It’s a slippery slope for Molly and Bandit!

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MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

LFF_Blog_Nov2022_Delery_Editor

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Delery has lived there all of her life except during undergraduate school and a brief stint in Seattle, WA. She is a mother to four boys, ranging in ages from 21 to 16, and they are the heart and soul of her life.

Delery earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and Master’s Degree from Louisiana State University. She completed a fellowship at Loyola University, New Orleans Institute of Politics, and currently attends Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy. Her volunteer work has mostly evolved from issues that have affected her personally. Actively engaged in disability rights advocacy, Delery has testified numerous times in the Louisiana Legislature regarding issues that affect persons with developmental disabilities. She served as the chair of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, worked for seven years directing regional advocacy efforts and is a graduate of Louisiana’s Partners In Policymaking.

LFF_Blog_June2023_Community

People of Louisiana – Community (June 2023)

 

LFF_Blog_June2023_Community

 COMMUNITY

 

HONORING
UNSUNG HEROES



Honoring Unsung Heroes

Written by Renee Antoine

Uplifting Every Voice, Seeing Every Journey

Unsung heroes are those who contribute remarkable work ethic to our state but often go unnoticed or uncelebrated. They often perform acts of courage, sacrifice, or service without seeking recognition or expecting rewards. Their dedication, courage, and resiliency provide a blueprint for champions of change across our communities. Louisiana is home to countless unsung heroes who continuously serve our state without hesitation or notoriety. The power of their collective contributions creates a future of sustainability and hope for our most vulnerable populations. The Office of Women’s Policy recognizes champions across our state through the Unsung Heroes Campaign of 2023. 

The Unsung Heroes Campaign honors and uplifts the valuable work of everyday leaders across diverse sectors. The mission is to Inspire Others, Challenge Stereotypes, and Encourage Civic Engagement. By celebrating unsung heroes, we provide well-deserved recognition to phenomenal community members while inspiring others to emulate positive actions and participate in worthy causes. These champions have defied all odds to ensure protection, growth, and love continue within their communities. They span all walks of life, representing a diverse array of ages, races, geographic locations, and socioeconomic levels. The seeds of hope they plant today will ensure the growth of possibilities for future generations. Their efforts demonstrate that all acts of kindness and service can lead to a significant impact. 

2023 Unsung Hero Honorees:

LFF_Blog_June2023_Community01

Martha Boyzo,
Teacher
CAPCA Migrant Head Start
Amite, LA

Martha has served in education for ten years, beginning as a teacher’s assistant caring for children. Migrant Head Start programs are specifically designed to support the educational and developmental needs of children from migrant and seasonal farmworker families. These programs aim to provide comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family support services to migrant children in Louisiana. Migrant Head Start centers bring with them the richness of diverse cultures, the courage to seek a better future, and the determination to succeed against all odds. Learn more to help advance the mission: Head Start 

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JaVon Butler,
Director and Performing Arts Instructor
SeLah Productions
Baton Rouge, LA

Through music and arts educational training, JaVon provides enrichment opportunities to underserved youth who are at risk for adverse outcomes in Louisiana. Performing arts is a gateway for children to express creativity, build confidence, and develop lifelong leadership skills. By nurturing the artistic abilities and passions of children, Louisiana cultivates a vibrant arts scene, preserves its cultural traditions, and contributes to the future career paths of all youth. 

Learn more to help advance the mission: SeLah Productions 

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Cherisse Picard, 
Director, Chez Hope Domestic Violence Shelter
New Iberia, LA

Cherisse continuously advocates to provide effective and comprehensive services for those who are victims of domestic abuse and intimate partner violence. She leads efforts across the state to create education and awareness of the needs of families seeking refuge. Within their walls, shattered lives are rebuilt, hope is rekindled, and a brighter future takes root. 

Learn more to help advance the mission: Chez Hope

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Jayme Johnson
Foster Care Parent,
Melville, LA

Jayme takes pride in providing a safe haven for children during emergencies and assisting families in becoming self-sufficient. She continuously seeks to educate and expand foster care services for vulnerable families across the state. Foster Care dedication lies in the key to building a state that thrives on empathy, protection, and the unwavering belief that every life deserves dignity and peace. Learn more to help advance the mission: Louisiana Fosters 

                                                 

Everyone can contribute to a meaningful mission.   

  1. Take Action:Identify a cause or issue you want to address. Begin by connecting with a community partner or starting a new project. This may involve volunteering your time or skills, creating a community initiative, organizing events, or raising funds. It is essential to provide support of any kind, even if it begins with the smallest contribution.  
  2. Lead by Example:Become a role model and inspire others through your actions. Serve with integrity, kindness, and compassion. By demonstrating empathy and positive leadership skills, others will be encouraged to join your efforts.  
  3. Collaborate and Amplify:Seek opportunities to partner with like-minded individuals, organizations, or community groups. By joining forces through resources, expertise, or networks, results are often amplified. Collective effort allows for shared knowledge, increased efficiency, and the ability to tackle challenges together.

Learn more ways to support or partner with the missions of Louisiana Unsung Heroes by visiting: 

La Office of Women’s Policy or email renee.antoine@la.gov 

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About Renee Antoine

Renee Antoine is a public health policy advocate and national maternal child health consultant. She has served in a variety of positions advocating for women, children and families across the state of Louisiana and nationally. She currently serves as the Executive Director for the Governor’s Office of Women’s Policy in Louisiana. She works collaboratively with all Louisiana stakeholders who serve women across the lifespan. Her recent accolades include serving as State Director for Maternal Child Health and Government Affairs for March of Dimes. Renee is from Baton Rouge, Louisiana and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Louisiana State University. Her graduate research continued to the University of Iowa in epigenetics and culminated at the University of Virginia in Developmental Psychology where she published studies on and child cognition and intellectual development.  

 

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People of Louisiana – Military (June 2023)

 

Louisiana National Guard
Education Program

Timberly Deville
Education Coordinator

Calling for Outside Help:
Key in Student Success


Written by Timberly Deville

 

I remember the first time I felt like I had really made a difference in a student’s life. I was an English teacher for years before moving into administration, and it wasn’t when an honors student wrote a killer essay or when a student made Mastery on an EOC or LEAP test. I had been really wracking my brain on how to engage some of my students whose minds, for whatever reason, seemed more difficult to captivate than usual. I’d tried all of my tricks! Group discussions, think pair share, real-world applications, brain breaks – you name it, I had tried it. As an English teacher, I tended to feel a little isolated from the “fun” stuff. It wasn’t until I went to our biology teacher down the hall and said, “How do I get them to really sink their teeth into Henrietta Lacks?” The unit alone was incredibly rich and interesting, but somehow it wasn’t connecting with each of my students. I was lucky enough to have a phenomenal Biology teacher on my floor who happened to be teaching a unit on cellular growth, and she had the brilliant idea of having her (our!) kids test samples of yeast for growth and replication. Our amazing Civics teacher jumped in and connected his unit on Politics and the Citizen to civil rights in the time period Henrietta was alive. Our Home Economics teacher followed suit and used the idea of growing active yeast to help create masterpieces in the kitchen. So our students were able to connect the powerful story of Henrietta Lacks to almost every discipline, and seeing the connection class after class cemented the idea that not only can we reach every student, but sometimes all we need is a little outside help to do it.

I’ve since moved into administration as the Education Coordinator for the Louisiana National Guard Education Programs (LANG EP), but I can tell you – that idea is even more impactful here. Our programs work with communities to engage at-risk youth across the state to reach every child – we are the “little help” schools and families call in to connect some of the most at-risk students to success.      

A great example of this is our STARBASE program. LANG EP has three in the state – one in Pineville at Training Camp Pineville (formerly Camp Beauregard), one in Rosedale, and one at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans. Primarily serving the surrounding area’s 5th-grade students, STARBASE is a one-of-a-kind educational program that fuels young minds with boundless potential, igniting a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). To see STARBASE in action is to witness, first hand, lightbulbs going off in students’ eyes and those lightbulbs staying lit! Through captivating lessons, students dive deep into the worlds of robotics, coding, aerospace engineering, and more, developing a deep understanding of these disciplines and their applications. Whether they’re designing and building rockets, programming intricate algorithms, or collaborating on team projects, STARBASE cultivates an environment that nurtures curiosity, fosters teamwork, and instills a sense of wonder about the world around them. Another bonus to the program is that teachers visiting with their students for the week also gain unique STEM professional development at no cost to their schools or districts. The partnerships between STARBASE and their surrounding districts are invaluable and will help shape a future where all Louisiana students have a chance to contribute to the scientific and technological world around us.         

While STARBASE may be a starting point for some Louisiana students, other students may first benefit from LANG Education Programs by way of the Youth Challenge Program. Louisiana was one of the pilot states for the residential program in 1993 (preparing to celebrate its 30th anniversary!) and has led the way in reclaiming the lives of at-risk youth since then. Focused on 16-18-year-olds, students from across the state gather at one of our three locations – Camp Minden (Minden, La.), Training Center – Pineville (formerly Camp Beauregard), and Gillis W. Long (Carville, La.). Just like Louisiana’s classrooms, YCP participants are equally diverse, hailing from all parts of the state and representing all demographics of students. The 22-week residential phase of the program focuses on its 8 Core Components – Academic Excellence, Life Coping Skills, Job Skills, Responsible Citizenship, Leadership/Followership, Health & Hygiene, Service to the Community, and Physical Fitness. During the residential phase, Cadets have access to two academic pathways – HiSET and Course Choice Credit Recovery (CCCR). HiSET has, historically, been a great fit for those students who may struggle in the traditional school setting, want to complete their High School Equivalency Diploma, and are ready to make their way in the world. CCCR is a more recent addition, having over 300 Cadets graduate through that pathway since its inception in 2017. This pathway is an excellent fit for students who may simply need the structure of YCP to get back on track and, while doing so, work on their high school courses with the plan of returning to high school and completing their High School Diploma.             

The Post Residential (PR) Phase lasts for 12 months and begins once the Cadet graduates from the 22-week residential program. It is during this time that their PR caseworker and community mentor help graduates find and maintain placement in the communities they are returning to. Success for each of these graduates may look slightly different, but in most cases, YCP has been the “little help” that communities needed to call in to show students what success can look like. And what does that look like? Since LA YCP began, it has had almost 27,000 graduates to date. That’s 27,000 students contributing to their neighborhoods, their employers, and their state that may not have otherwise! To further break down that success, 58% of graduates go straight into employment, 29.5% immediately continue their education, 4.5% enlist in the military, and 8% enter into some combination of these. Additionally, with a HiSET pass rate of 83%, YCP is not only Louisiana’s partner in education but a premier program at that!             

The final step in completing the LANG Education Programs experience is the Job Challenge Program (JCP). Only eligible to YCP graduates aged 17-21, this comprehensive program offers a unique combination of academic instruction, hands-on training, and professional development opportunities, providing participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the workforce. While its own program, JCP’s structure and programming make it the logical next step (or even an extension) to YCP. Conveniently located at Gillis W. Long, the Job Challenge program focuses on enhancing participants’ academic foundation while honing their practical skills. Through vocational training and industry certifications, participants gain practical skills in areas like construction, healthcare, and information technology, setting them up for success in specific career pathways such as Culinary, EMT, Phlebotomy, Welding, and Heavy Equipment Operation. While JCP is also a residential program and structurally styled after YCP, JCP leans a bit more toward a college experience for Trainees, and the residential stay depends on the length of time each credentialing program lasts. For example, one pathway’s IBC may take 12 weeks while another takes 20 weeks. In both cases, Trainees are working towards valuable industry-based credentials while still benefitting from the structure and programming of yet another premier LANG EP program.

Moreover, the Job Challenge Program places a strong emphasis on personal growth and character development, and ultimately, JCP prepares young individuals for meaningful employment and lifelong success, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

The Louisiana National Guard Education Programs hold a wealth of opportunities for Louisiana’s students. Whether exploring the mysteries of today’s world with hands-on activities at STARBASE, focusing on personal growth through the structured, supportive environment of YCP, to taking their first step into the working world and earning industry credentials at JCP, LANG Education Programs is proud to be a vital “helping” partner in Louisiana students’ success and, regardless of which program or location they’re at, it’s a place where our children can flourish and make a positive impact on the world around them.

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About Timberly Deville

Timberly Deville, an accomplished educator and advocate for underserved populations, has almost 15 years of experience in education and administration. She has received numerous awards such as District Teacher of the Year and the LA Military Department Exceptional Performance Award.

In her current role as Education Coordinator for seven LA National Guard programs and Lead Instructor Chair for the NGB Youth Challenge National Training Committee, she forms partnerships with organizations like LDOE and LCTCS and provides both state and national professional development for educators. Additionally, as part of the National Guard’s Joint Diversity Executive Committee, she helps create and deliver NGB’s Diversity and Inclusion Plans.

Timberly is a 2021 and 2022 STAND Lead Fellow, President of the Alpha Pi chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, and holds a BLS in English, an MS.EdL in Educational Leadership, and will graduate next year with an Ed.D. in Educational Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.

 

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People of Louisiana – Schools (June 2023)

 

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DEREKA DUNCAN

West Baton Rouge Parish
Cohn Elementary School
2022-23 Milken Educator Award recipient
5th Grade Science

The Big Three

 

 
 
 
 

DEREKA DUNCAN

THE BIG THREE:
Reflect, Refuel, Reset

 

Dear teachers,

Wow! It is hard to believe that the summer is finally here! You deserve a standing ovation for working hard this school year for your students. I am sure you are filled with emotions; Excitement, relief, and pride! Like many educators, I look forward to the summer break! It is the time I use to recharge for the next school year. I usually take the first few weeks to relax and binge-watch TV. However, it is only a short time before I refocus my energy on preparing for the upcoming school year. I plan for the next school year without stress, distractions, or pressure. I am most productive during this time and contribute to this approach. The three things I plan to do this summer are reflect, refuel, and reset. Below are some things I do and some tips for you to consider.

Reflect:

After teaching all year, I reflect on my instructional practices and my student’s learning experiences. I review what strategies worked and the overall student performance. Sounds familiar? That same reflective process is also vital for an educator’s mental health. With that, here are some things for consideration. Reflect on your mindset and practices. How much time did you devote to planning? How often did you focus on the negatives rather than the small wins? Reflect on the relationships with students and fellow educators. Reflect on how you balanced work and home. Reflect on how well you attended to your students’ social-emotional needs, family, and YOURSELF. Think about whether or not you need an intervention. Or did you master it? Reflection allows us to accept the truth and consciously choose to improve. Reflection provides room for growth. Reflective practices are beneficial, and research shows that educators that perform reflective practices demonstrate more growth in the classroom. Reflection empowers one to learn from their experiences and promotes development. Now is the time to reflect. I often ponder if there’s anything that I would like to change about this past school year. Is there anything that worked exceptionally well that may benefit others? Please reflect as well and plan your next steps.

Refuel:

Being a fantastic teacher requires lots of creative, effective, and transformative energy! How do you refuel yourself? Do you like to read, sew, dance, or travel? Do you enjoy pampering yourself or dining with friends? However, if you choose to refuel yourself, make sure it’s enough to “fill up your cup.” I live on Sundays. I enjoy coordinating outfits with my family and attending church. Then, we head to our favorite spots to enjoy Sunday brunch. The conversations, laughs, warm, savory pancakes, and many family pictures overflow my bucket. I am sure my husband and my boys hate to match each Sunday, but they know the little gesture is what refuels my soul. As educators, we often pour out of our cups to the point we leave little for ourselves. This pouring leads to frustration, fatigue, and teacher burnout! We should all use the summer to exhale. Focus on you and the little things that bring you joy. Now, some of us cannot stay away from school. We take pride in planning and getting organized. That’s fine. But, think of ways to refuel while doing schoolwork. Listen to your favorite jam while working or plan at a local coffee shop instead. Commit to dedicating double the amount of time to yourself as you do to school work. We deserve this moment. Let’s do it!

Reset:

Imagine you’re in the middle of writing an essay, and your computer freezes. Of course, you wouldn’t just throw the computer away. You would troubleshoot. You’d likely turn it off and allow it to reset before powering it on again. As educators, we should allow ourselves to reset. Throughout the school year, we are often charged with many daily tasks that add to the workload of instructing our students. We wear many hats and often do it with a smile while our motherboard is crashing internally! I challenge you to take a moment to reset when problems arise. Think about your why and refocus. I often document my student’s learning experiences in photographs and videos. It’s refreshing to go back and look at those memories and reflect on how I felt in those moments. Those memories provide an opportunity for me to reset. Whenever you feel overwhelmed with the profession, think about your driving force as an educator and allow yourself to meditate upon it to make yourself anew. As educators, we have the power to make a difference! No matter the circumstances, don’t give up on your why. I encourage you to reset and remember what drove you to this career.

I hope you found these tips helpful. I plan to utilize this approach throughout the summer and revisit each step as necessary throughout the upcoming school year. I encourage you to do the same. This summer, focus on YOU as you Reflect, Refuel, and Reset! I hope you enjoy your summer and wish you a prosperous 2023-2024 school year!

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Louisiana Fosters – Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force (LEAF) Advocates on Behalf of the State’s Foster Youth

 

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Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force (LEAF) Advocates on Behalf of the State’s Foster Youth

Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force (LEAF)
Advocates on Behalf of the State’s Foster Youth

Louisiana foster youth speak up for themselves through the Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force. This advisory board advocates on behalf of current and former foster youth, works throughout communities to impact change, and strives to empower others to become leaders and reach their full potential.

LEAF’s vision is a world and community where every child has the right to safety, a loving home, permanency, and overall well-being in which they can build a successful future. Members are all former foster youth with lived experience who have aged out of the system. They work with community, state, and national partners to develop a stable and ongoing support and advocacy network among foster youth. 

LEAF’s advocacy work includes policy development, speaking engagements, annual testimony at the Louisiana Senate, workgroup participation, and more. Many LEAF members are also peer support specialists with the Independent Living Program, which provides ongoing support, life skills, and engagement to current youth in care. 

LEAF was instrumental in authoring and passing legislation creating the first Louisiana Foster Youth Bill of Rights in 2021. Previous and current LEAF presidents were also members of the legislative task force that helped design the Extended Foster Care (EFC) model, and the board advocated for the passage of EFC legislation.

Currently, 12 active members are on the LEAF board and two honorary members. Members stay connected through monthly board calls, bi-monthly workdays, and quarterly retreats. LEAF can engage more young leaders, so if you know a current foster care youth or young adult who may be interested in joining, please email la.elite.advocacy.force@gmail.com. You can also email LEAF if you are interested in sponsoring an event or becoming a partner. 

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June is National Reunification Month

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June is National Reunification Month when we celebrate the strength and resilience of families who have overcome challenges to reunite with one another. Reunification can include returning home when it is safe to do so, but it can also mean connecting to relatives who provide guardianship or living arrangements for a child. 

At DCFS, almost two-thirds of the children who come into foster care are successfully reunited with their families. Since 2016, the Department has reunified 13,820 children with their families or relatives.

This National Reunification Month, you have an opportunity to help us raise awareness about these efforts. Visit www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/reunify and share the hashtag #NationalReunificationMonth on social media to help us honor the positive impact of reunification.

June Adoption Feature

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Each month we feature children and teens available for adoption in Louisiana.
For June, we’d like to introduce you to David and Wynter from the Shreveport Region.

David – 15

David is an active teenager looking for a forever family to match his energy level. He enjoys the outdoors, including fishing and hunting. He also likes video games and watching his favorite TV shows on Nick Jr. David’s favorite subject is science. David wants a forever family who is supportive of him maintaining contact with his younger brother after adoption. 

Wynter – 15

Wynter is a happy teenager with a huge personality. She is extremely intelligent and a very good student. She loves reading, drawing, writing, shopping, and watching movies. She enjoys being outdoors and animals. Wynter would love a loving, patient, supportive, and understanding family. 

If you are considering adopting or fostering a child, take that first step by attending a free virtual orientation session. For more information about becoming a foster/adoptive parent and the training available, visit our website. You can also call your regional office or email DCFS.HomeDevelopment@la.gov with your name and parish of residence for more information.

Visit the Louisiana Fosters Website

 

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Anti-Human Trafficking: Get a Game Plan: Hurricane Preparedness and Human Trafficking Prevention

 

GET A GAME PLAN:
Hurricane Preparedness and Human Trafficking Prevention

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GET A GAME PLAN:

Hurricane Preparedness
and Human Trafficking Prevention

Written by Dr. Dana Hunter and Mary Kate Andrepont
Office of Human Trafficking Prevention

Hurricane season is now upon us. In the aftermath of disasters, human trafficking is an unexpected crime that can occur. As we saw after Hurricane Katrina and, more recently, Hurricane Ida, traffickers seek opportunities to exploit disaster survivors and vulnerable communities. Understanding how traffickers target disaster survivors is critical to protecting your family, community, and businesses. 

Hurricanes can provide a ripe environment for human trafficking to occur due to its often devastating impacts, including: housing instability and displacement, economic insecurity, and job loss, disruption in social services, and weakened governance and/or labor regulations. In the immediate aftermath, traffickers may recruit victims through false job advertisements or an informal employment opportunity– including engaging in commercial sexual activity– in exchange for shelter, food, or other basic needs. During the recovery and rebuilding stage of disaster response, high labor demands often lead to the recruitment of migrant laborers to engage in debris cleanup, demolition, and construction. One study conducted by the University of California-Berkeley found that 25% of construction workers in post- Katrina were undocumented. [1] This aligns with many bodies of research and accounts from direct service providers that employers largely target a migrant labor force to fill temporary jobs after a disaster. In post-Katrina recovery, labor exploitation and labor trafficking were rampant, with notable cases involving debt bondage, false promises of pathways to immigration, unpaid wages, unlivable housing conditions, and threats of violence. 

Before a storm hits, it is important to identify resources and Get a Game Plan for your family and community. For organizations serving vulnerable communities, it is essential that we educate clients to recognize false or fraudulent job opportunities, to know their rights, and to implement disaster preparedness and safety planning. For businesses and employers, companies operating in high-risk fields for labor trafficking– such as construction, hospitality, and agriculture– are critical to labor trafficking prevention. To prevent and address trafficking in your company, please consider adopting strategies from the U.S. Department of State’s Responsible Sourcing Tool. To raise awareness of human trafficking in the aftermath of natural disasters, please download the Louisiana Natural Disasters and Human Trafficking Outreach Toolkit. Modeled after FEMA’s phases of emergency management, the toolkit includes awareness flyers in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese; social media messaging and images; a client help card for direct service providers to disseminate; resource lists; and an implementation guide. Together, we can protect our communities against labor exploitation and human trafficking. 

If you or someone you know is working and cannot leave because of lack of payment, debt bondage, threats of arrest or deportation, or violence, you have rights. Free help is available. Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. Interpreters are available via phone call. 

  [1] Fletcher, Laurel E., Patrick Vink, Phuong Pham, and Eric Stover. 2006. Rebuilding after Katrina: A Population-Based Study of Labor and Human Rights in New Orleans. Berkeley: University of California, Berkeley.

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About Mary Kate Andrepont

Mary Kate Andrepont is a Program Manager of the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention. As a program manager, Mary Kate coordinates statewide efforts to prevent human trafficking and address the complex needs of survivors. She is passionate about creating strong systems and proactive responses that are victim-centered and trauma-informed. Prior to serving in the Governor’s Office, Mary Kate coordinated two federally-funded direct service grants for victims of human trafficking in Louisiana.

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About Dr. Dana R. Hunter

Dr. Dana R. Hunter is a native of Baton Rouge, LA.  In February 2017, after serving in various leadership roles in academia and government, she was appointed by Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards as the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention. She works closely with Governor Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards to facilitate statewide anti-human trafficking efforts and the Human Trafficking Prevention Commission.  

 

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Women’s Health – Summer Check-In

 

Women’s Health

WOMEN'S HEALTH BLOG June 2023

Summer Check-In

Written by Kimiyo Harris Williams, MD, FAAP

As we enjoy the warm breezes and summertime fun, it’s a great time to ask yourself, “Girl, how are you doing?” Are you resting well, eating healthy, breathing normally, thinking clearly, having meaningful relationships, and experiencing physical wellness? If you haven’t posed these questions to yourself lately or at all, I encourage you to set aside some time to “check-in” with yourself this summer. Even though you may be juggling kids’ activities, business meetings and conventions, volunteering, and family obligations, the lovely ladies of Louisiana should add a self “check-in” to your agenda.  

When you do your summer “check-in” on yourself, assess the amount and quality of sleep you get. One factor that impacts our health is sleep. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that teens ages 13-18 years should get 8-10 hours of sleep per 24 hours; adults ages 18-60 years should get 7 or more hours of sleep per night; ages 61-64 should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night; and ages 65 years and older need 7-8 hours per night. In addition to the amount of sleep, sleep quality is essential for well-being. Some signs of poor sleep quality include not feeling rested after sleeping the recommended number of hours based on age, repeated nighttime awakening, snoring, and gasping for air. The latter are symptoms of a possible sleep disorder. If these symptoms are discovered during the self “check-in,” you should seek help from a physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Below are some tips from the CDC to help you develop good sleep habits or good “sleep hygiene.” 

  • Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends
  • Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature
  • Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smartphones, from the bedroom
  • Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime
  • Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.

In addition to good sleep habits, “check-in” with yourself on what foods and drinks you consume regularly. Nutrition has a huge impact on our well-being. Increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet is very important for improved health and health outcomes. In addition, adequate water intake is important in living a healthy lifestyle.

Per the CDC and according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025[PDF-30.6MB], a healthy eating plan:

  • Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
  • Includes a variety of protein foods such as seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts, and seeds.
  • Is low in added sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
  • Stays within your daily calorie needs.

Moreover, sufficient water intake is important in living a healthy lifestyle.

Water helps your body:

  • Keep a normal temperature.
  • Lubricate and cushion joints.
  • Protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues.
  • Get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.

Your body needs more water when you are:

  • In hot climates.
  • More physically active.
  • Running a fever.
  • Having diarrhea or vomiting.

As you enjoy the sunny, hot summer days with family and friends, remember to take time for your summer “check-in.” Incorporate good sleep habits and a healthy diet with adequate water intake into your normal routine. In addition, make sure you are keeping your annual wellness checks and seeking mental health services if needed. The summer self-check-in practice will help you to move toward being more intentional about your wellness. 

Self-care is healthy living.

Kimiyo Harris Williams, M.D., FAAP

Resources:

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html
  2. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html
  3. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/index.html
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html
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About Kimiyo Harris Williams, MD, FAAP

Kimiyo Harris Williams, MD, FAAP is an Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Division of Ambulatory Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine at LSU School of Medicine in the Department of Pediatrics. Dr. Williams worked in the academic environment and General Pediatrics Private Practices. As a Physician Consultant, she serves as an expert medical and administrative resource for a large NIH research grant titled All of Us. The research program invites one million people across the U.S. to help build one of the most diverse health databases in history. Dr. Williams practices at the Tiger Care Academic Clinic at the Lakeside LCMC location in Metairie, Louisiana.

 

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Feature: Summer Safety

 

Summer
Safety
Tips

from the American Red Cross

 

 

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Summer Safety Tips

from the American Red Cross

Water Safety

Every day, an average of 11 people die in the U.S. from unintentional drowning — and one in five of those are children 14 or younger, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Red Cross wants everyone to know critical safety knowledge and skills that could save your life in and around the water. We encourage families to build confidence in the water by learning to be safe, making good choices, learning to swim, and how to handle emergencies.

  • Preventing unsupervised access to water, providing constant, active adult supervision, and knowing how to swim are critical layers of protection to help prevent drowning.
  • Classes to learn how to swim are available for both children and adults. Check the map for Learn-to-Swim providers in your community. Furthermore, everyone should learn first aid and CPR to know what to do in an emergency.
  • Download the Red Cross Swim app, sponsored by The ZAC Foundation, for safety tips, kid-friendly videos, and activities, and take the free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course in English or in Spanish.
  • It’s best to swim in a lifeguarded area. Always designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
  • Drowning behavior is typically fast and silent. Unless rescued, a drowning person will last only 20 to 60 seconds before submerging. Reach or throw, don’t go! In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble. Don’t go in, or you could become a victim yourself. Test your knowledge! 
  • It only takes a moment. A child or weak swimmer can drown in the time it takes to reply to a text, check a fishing line, or apply sunscreen. For additional information about staying safe while swimming in larger bodies of water like oceans or lakes, review our beach safety tips below.

Be sure to check out the rest of the tips here.

Original text from the Red Cross website. You can find the article in its entirety here.

 

LFF_FirstLady2023

Blog – June 2023

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BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

Summer Is Here

June 2023

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If you can’t tell already by the heat and humidity – our Louisiana summer has arrived! Summer brings longer days and a slower pace for some. It’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy our beautiful Louisiana and all its bounty! When I think of summers as a young person, I remember lots of swimming, eating snow cones, visiting Grandparents for a week, and summer camp. And as a young mother of three, I remember the fun and chaos, family vacations, and trying to keep the kids entertained during the summer months while also allowing time for rest for them and their parents. We always signed up for the Library Summer Reading program and visited it weekly. The library visit most often included some planned fun activities. And there was always a Vacation Bible School in our little community. And although there are lots of fun things and activities to do outside, make sure to be careful about the heat. The Louisiana heat can be challenging when playing and working in the direct sun. So make sure to take precautions and drink lots of water and hydrating fluids. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

LFF_Blog_2023_FirstLady

As always, I am so impressed by our blog entries this month. Be sure to take the time to read through each of them and connect with others across our state, engaging across all platforms. There is some excellent information about summer safety tips in our feature. With children out of school and closer to water, it is essential to know water safety!

Our military section is especially interesting and heartwarming. The STARBASE program facilitated through the National Guard has given so much hope and support to at-risk youth in Louisiana. A few weeks ago, I met the ladies in the Community section who are “Unsung Heroes.” These ladies have a fantastic story about their contributions to and work in our communities. And I always enjoy hearing from the medical professionals in our Women’s Health section.

I’d also like to highlight our newest book added to the Governor’s Mansion Preservation store. A Place Worth Preserving, Vol. 2, features updates to the historic Louisiana Governor’s Mansion during our time here in the mansion. The book features lots of photos, fun behind-the-scenes stories, and historical “fun facts” about the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. Restoring the mansion to preserve it for generations has been one of my passions for the last seven and a half years. You can follow along on this preservation journey in this book. It makes a great keepsake and gift, especially for those who have everything, or as a gift for that special person.

Finally, I encourage you to make our Lemon Balm Iced Tea in our recipe section. You won’t regret it! It is cool and refreshing for our Louisiana summer days and nights. And always make time for a new book to read, time to sit and enjoy the sounds of summer. And if you’re lucky to have a rocking chair and a porch, spend some time just sitting, breathing in the slow days of summer. Oh yeah, enjoy some Lemon Balm Iced Tea as you’re rocking!

Love to all,

LFF_blog_signature
LFF_Blog_June2023_BibleQuote

Summer Is Here

June 2023

LFF_Blog_2023_FirstLady
LFF_Blog_June2023_FathersDay

If you can’t tell already by the heat and humidity – our Louisiana summer has arrived! Summer brings longer days and a slower pace for some. It’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy our beautiful Louisiana and all its bounty! When I think of summers as a young person, I remember lots of swimming, eating snow cones, visiting Grandparents for a week, and summer camp. And as a young mother of three, I remember the fun and chaos, family vacations, and trying to keep the kids entertained during the summer months while also allowing time for rest for them and their parents. We always signed up for the Library Summer Reading program and visited it weekly. The library visit most often included some planned fun activities. And there was always a Vacation Bible School in our little community. And although there are lots of fun things and activities to do outside, make sure to be careful about the heat. The Louisiana heat can be challenging when playing and working in the direct sun. So make sure to take precautions and drink lots of water and hydrating fluids. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

As always, I am so impressed by our blog entries this month. Be sure to take the time to read through each of them and connect with others across our state, engaging across all platforms. There is some excellent information about summer safety tips in our feature. With children out of school and closer to water, it is essential to know water safety!

Our military section is especially interesting and heartwarming. The STARBASE program facilitated through the National Guard has given so much hope and support to at-risk youth in Louisiana. A few weeks ago, I met the ladies in the Community section who are “Unsung Heroes.” These ladies have a fantastic story about their contributions to and work in our communities. And I always enjoy hearing from the medical professionals in our Women’s Health section.

I’d also like to highlight our newest book added to the Governor’s Mansion Preservation store. A Place Worth Preserving, Vol. 2, features updates to the historic Louisiana Governor’s Mansion during our time here in the mansion. The book features lots of photos, fun behind-the-scenes stories, and historical “fun facts” about the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. Restoring the mansion to preserve it for generations has been one of my passions for the last seven and a half years. You can follow along on this preservation journey in this book. It makes a great keepsake and gift, especially for those who have everything, or as a gift for that special person.

Finally, I encourage you to make our Lemon Balm Iced Tea in our recipe section. You won’t regret it! It is cool and refreshing for our Louisiana summer days and nights. And always make time for a new book to read, time to sit and enjoy the sounds of summer. And if you’re lucky to have a rocking chair and a porch, spend some time just sitting, breathing in the slow days of summer. Oh yeah, enjoy some Lemon Balm Iced Tea as you’re rocking!

Love to all,

LFF_blog_signature
LFF_Blog_June2023_BibleQuote
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FEATURE

Summer Safety 

American Red Cross

Summer is upon us! With children out of school and many people on the move, it’s important to be aware of some summer safety tips. You can find additional tips on the Red Cross website.

But here are some water safety tips to get you started.

LFF_Blog_June2023_Feature

Water Safety

Every day, an average of 11 people die in the U.S. from unintentional drowning — and one in five of those are children 14 or younger, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Red Cross wants everyone to know critical safety knowledge and skills that could save your life in and around the water. We encourage families to build confidence in the water by learning to be safe, making good choices, learning to swim, and how to handle emergencies.

  • Preventing unsupervised access to water, providing constant, active adult supervision, and knowing how to swim are critical layers of protection to help prevent drowning.
  • Classes to learn how to swim are available for both children and adults. Check the map for Learn-to-Swim providers in your community. Furthermore, everyone should learn first aid and CPR to know what to do in an emergency.
  • Download the Red Cross Swim app, sponsored by The ZAC Foundation, for safety tips, kid-friendly videos, and activities, and take the free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course in English or in Spanish.
  • It’s best to swim in a lifeguarded area. Always designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
  • Drowning behavior is typically fast and silent. Unless rescued, a drowning person will last only 20 to 60 seconds before submerging. Reach or throw, don’t go! In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble. Don’t go in, or you could become a victim yourself. Test your knowledge! 
  • It only takes a moment. A child or weak swimmer can drown in the time it takes to reply to a text, check a fishing line, or apply sunscreen. For additional information about staying safe while swimming in larger bodies of water like oceans or lakes, review our beach safety tips below.

Be sure to check out the rest of the tips here.

Original text from the Red Cross website. You can find the article in its entirety here.

FEATURE

Summer Safety

American Red Cross

LFF_Blog_June2023_Feature

Summer is upon us! With children out of school and many people on the move, it’s important to be aware of some summer safety tips. You can find additional tips on the Red Cross website.

But here are some water safety tips to get you started.

Water Safety

Every day, an average of 11 people die in the U.S. from unintentional drowning — and one in five of those are children 14 or younger, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Red Cross wants everyone to know critical safety knowledge and skills that could save your life in and around the water. We encourage families to build confidence in the water by learning to be safe, making good choices, learning to swim, and how to handle emergencies.

  • Preventing unsupervised access to water, providing constant, active adult supervision, and knowing how to swim are critical layers of protection to help prevent drowning.
  • Classes to learn how to swim are available for both children and adults. Check the map for Learn-to-Swim providers in your community. Furthermore, everyone should learn first aid and CPR to know what to do in an emergency.
  • Download the Red Cross Swim app, sponsored by The ZAC Foundation, for safety tips, kid-friendly videos, and activities, and take the free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course in English or in Spanish.
  • It’s best to swim in a lifeguarded area. Always designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
  • Drowning behavior is typically fast and silent. Unless rescued, a drowning person will last only 20 to 60 seconds before submerging. Reach or throw, don’t go! In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble. Don’t go in, or you could become a victim yourself. Test your knowledge! 
  • It only takes a moment. A child or weak swimmer can drown in the time it takes to reply to a text, check a fishing line, or apply sunscreen. For additional information about staying safe while swimming in larger bodies of water like oceans or lakes, review our beach safety tips below.

Be sure to check out the rest of the tips here.

Original text from the Red Cross website. You can find the article in its entirety here.

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LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

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Power of Community

Teach Mam
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Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force (LEAF)

Louisiana Foster's
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Hurricane Preparedness and Human Trafficking Prevention

Human Trafficking

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

The Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation is proud to present its newest publication, A Place Worth Preserving, Vol. 2, which features updates to the historic mansion during the John Bel Edwards administration. To learn more about the mansion’s preservation efforts, grab a copy of this incredible book by clicking the link below. 

A Place Worth Preserving, Vol. 2
LFF_Blog_June2023_MansionBook
Visit the Governor's Mansion Store
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Women’s Health

Summer Check-In

by Kimiyo Harris Williams, MD, FAAP

Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Division of Ambulatory Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine at LSU School of Medicine

LFF_Blog_June2023_WomensHealthBio

As we enjoy the warm breezes and summertime fun, it’s a great time to ask yourself, “Girl, how are you doing?” Are you resting well, eating healthy, breathing normally, thinking clearly, having meaningful relationships, and experiencing physical wellness? If you haven’t posed these questions to yourself lately or at all, I encourage you to set aside some time to “check-in” with yourself this summer. Even though you may be juggling kids’ activities, business meetings and conventions, volunteering, and family obligations, the lovely ladies of Louisiana should add a self “check-in” to your agenda.  

When you do your summer “check-in” on yourself, assess the amount and quality of sleep you get. One factor that impacts our health is sleep. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that teens ages 13-18 years should get 8-10 hours of sleep per 24 hours; adults ages 18-60 years should get 7 or more hours of sleep per night; ages 61-64 should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night; and ages 65 years and older need 7-8 hours per night. In addition to the amount of sleep, sleep quality is essential for well-being. Some signs of poor sleep quality include not feeling rested after sleeping the recommended number of hours based on age, repeated nighttime awakening, snoring, and gasping for air. The latter are symptoms of a possible sleep disorder. 

If these symptoms are discovered during the self “check-in,” you should seek help from a physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Below are some tips from the CDC to help you develop good sleep habits or good “sleep hygiene.” 

  • Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends
  • Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature
  • Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smartphones, from the bedroom
  • Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime
  • Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.

In addition to good sleep habits, “check-in” with yourself on what foods and drinks you consume regularly. Nutrition has a huge impact on our well-being. Increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet is very important for improved health and health outcomes. In addition, adequate water intake is important in living a healthy lifestyle.

Per the CDC and according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025[PDF-30.6MB], a healthy eating plan:

  • Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
  • Includes a variety of protein foods such as seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts, and seeds.
  • Is low in added sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
  • Stays within your daily calorie needs.

Moreover, sufficient water intake is important in living a healthy lifestyle.

Water helps your body:

  • Keep a normal temperature.
  • Lubricate and cushion joints.
  • Protect your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues.
  • Get rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.

Your body needs more water when you are:

  • In hot climates.
  • More physically active.
  • Running a fever.
  • Having diarrhea or vomiting.

As you enjoy the sunny, hot summer days with family and friends, remember to take time for your summer “check-in.” Incorporate good sleep habits and a healthy diet with adequate water intake into your normal routine. In addition, make sure you are keeping your annual wellness checks and seeking mental health services if needed. The summer self-check-in practice will help you to move toward being more intentional about your wellness. 

Self-care is healthy living.

Kimiyo Harris Williams, M.D., FAAP

Resources:

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html
  2. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html
  3. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/index.html
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html
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People of
Louisiana

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Dereka Duncan <br> SCHOOLS

Dereka Duncan
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Nat'l. Guard Edu. Program <br> MILITARY

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Unsung Heroes <br> COMMUNITY

Unsung Heroes
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SCHOOLS

Dereka Duncan

SCHOOLS
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Nat'l. Guard Edu. Program

MILITARY
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Honoring Unsung Heroes

COMMUNITY

LEMON BALM ICED TEA

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

Celebrate National Iced Tea Month with a refreshing twist on a classic favorite.

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Memorable Verse

June 2023

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THE FIRST DOGS

June 2023

Dog Days of Summer Pool Pawty!

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MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

LFF_Blog_Nov2022_Delery_Editor

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Delery has lived there all of her life except during undergraduate school and a brief stint in Seattle, WA. She is a mother to four boys, ranging in ages from 21 to 16, and they are the heart and soul of her life.

Delery earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and Master’s Degree from Louisiana State University. She completed a fellowship at Loyola University, New Orleans Institute of Politics, and currently attends Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy. Her volunteer work has mostly evolved from issues that have affected her personally. Actively engaged in disability rights advocacy, Delery has testified numerous times in the Louisiana Legislature regarding issues that affect persons with developmental disabilities. She served as the chair of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, worked for seven years directing regional advocacy efforts and is a graduate of Louisiana’s Partners In Policymaking.

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