FEATURE

November 3, 2020

Blog – November 2020

The November 2020 Blog

01.

Volume 3, Edition 1

A Word from the
First Lady of Louisiana

Happy Anniversary to our
Loving Louisiana Blog!

Happy Anniversary to our Loving Louisiana Blog!

This month we are three years old. We are so excited that we have shared amazing stories, highlighted our initiatives and businesses around our state, and given respect to those whom have served our country. Giving positive and encouraging recognition to Louisianans for their work in our communities and state has been such a joy. I have received many encouraging emails, messages from friends, and even emails of criticism and dismay. I am appreciative of them all.

My hope…is that this blog will continue to be a place to read about the importance of the arts in our schools and the need to be aware and learn the preventive measures of human sex trafficking in our state. I hope the blog will be a place to believe and understand the value of investing in our Louisiana Foster children, our children.

My hope… is that you will continue to learn about our Louisiana businesses here in our state and frequent those businesses when possible.

My hope… it that you will continue to read about our outstanding educators, military, and people making our communities even better by what they give back.

My hope… is that you will continue to discover new recipes by our amazing Louisiana chefs and pass those along to your families.

Lastly, my hope… is that you and I can continue “Loving Louisiana” by cherishing our people and encouraging each other on this journey together. You can count on me and my team to continue advocating for our children and highlighting others who are doing the same.

On a different note, I have been troubled by several tragedies that have recently occurred with some young college students. Tears come to my eyes as I type this out. It has been a tough time for all and especially young people. Since I have a college freshman, these situations hit close to home.

I read in the news about college students that had way too much to drink, and one ended up in a coma. I immediately dropped to my knees and prayed for God to help these students and their families. Why, because that is what we do, we pray for one another. Why, because as a mother, my heart aches for this family and their child. The next report I read was about a young girl that had committed suicide that same evening. I began to pray for the family and the tragedy that had just happened in their life. I received pictures of these two people—young, beautiful, and a full life ahead. I also received a message that same week that my sorority sister, who lives in another state, had lost her son to an accidental overdose. He was a wonderful young man that made a decision that cost him his life. These events were all in one week. Now this week there has been another suicide at LSU. My heart has been so heavy for these families and these parents. I continue to pray for them all. I understand that the young man in a coma is now awake. I pray one day that he will use this crisis to help others.

This past weekend I forced myself to watch the funeral of my sorority sister’s son that was online. I have to be honest; I started and stopped it three times because I began to cry. As I watched and listened, I was looking for answers to “why”? Why are we losing our young people? We raise them in good families, love them when they are little ones, attend every activity, and cover them with all they need and want. WHY does this happen? I don’t have the answers, but I do know that we have to share, learn, and engage more about the effects of behavioral health.

Behavioral health is the study of the emotions, behaviors, and biology relating to a person’s mental well-being, ability to function in everyday life, and their concept of self. It encompasses mental health and addictive health issues. These are not always the cause, but they need to be understood and talked about out loud with the people we love. We are not perfect as parents, and I do not believe there is a perfect answer to why any of these crises I mentioned occurred.

However, we have to share and try to understand. And when we try and do not understand, we must seek help and support. Having a strong faith has always been what I lean on in times of confusion and uncertainty. Our faith gives us hope. And we must support one another through these times of hardship, even if it is praying from afar.

There was a time in my life that a close friend of mine shared that she had depression. There were days she could not get out of bed or get dressed. She had to force herself to get up and get her children ready for school and to be a Mom. I was so sad for her, but honestly, I did not understand. Then, it happened to me. I had my own experience with depression. I felt sad, confused, and even had panic attacks. Yes, I had to go to the doctor, find support, and lean on my faith. Thank goodness this worked itself out of my life, but I remember the feelings and emotions like it was yesterday.

A 2015 Mental Health America report ranked Louisiana 47th for overall mental health care, but thanks to Medicaid expansion and an increase in mental health care providers across the state Louisiana now ranks 30th. While this is great news, we can’t stop here. The need is still great and we must continue working toward meeting the needs of all those impacted by mental illness by electing leaders who value access to healthcare, advocate for legislation that increases mental health care access and funding, prioritize early intervention, improve licensed mental health professional reimbursement rates, and eliminate the stigma that’s associated with mental illness and seeking treatment.

Some quick statistics in Louisiana pre-2020:

Every 12 hours someone in Louisiana commits suicide.
20% of Louisianans have a mental illness, only 60% seek treatment.
Those who receive consistent outpatient treatment cut hospital stays by 40%.

https://www.kff.org/statedata/mental-health-and-substance-use-state-fact-sheets/louisiana

Mental health America reports here:
https://www.mhanational.org/state-mental-health-america-past-reports

Louisiana Department of Health – Mental Health resources can be found here:
https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/97

As we journey together, let us lean on God and one another. We need to lift each other up. Do not avoid difficult conversations with one another, especially your children. I used these tragedies to speak to my son, to plead with him to make good decisions. EVERY decision we make, whether good or bad, affects not just ourselves but impacts others as well. Be open to your children and speak with them about the real dangers of drinking, and above all, remind them that no matter what they do in life, you will always be there to love them. We may be disappointed, mad, and upset with their choices, but we will ALWAYS love them. Remind them there is nothing they could do that is bad enough for them to take their own lives.

If you’re like me you will continue to wake up and go to sleep praying for our children. As parents, let us all continue to support each other. And let us all continue to pray for each other and for all families and their children.

May the loving arms of God hold you and give you a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Love,

John 15:12

This is my commandment, that you love one another,
just as I have loved you.

02. FEATURE

A Tribute to an Early Teach MAM Partner: Cheryl Castille

The Louisiana First Foundation was heartbroken to hear of the passing of Cheryl Castille, Executive Director of the Louisiana Division of the Arts. Cheryl was a shining light and constant advocate for the arts in Louisiana. From the very beginnings of the Teach MAM program, Cheryl was an esteemed and valued part of the implementation, design and enhancement in the early days. Constantly adding fresh and new ideas, Cheryl helped steer the direction of the partnership between the LDOA and Teach MAM. It was a blessing to know her and work with her.

“The Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, along with the entire Louisiana arts community, was fortunate to work with Cheryl. She inspired so many people through her creativity, drive, and love of the arts,” said Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. “As Executive Director of the Arts, Cheryl brought such enthusiasm to every aspect of her work. She understood how the arts affected, and enriched, so much of our lives. She was an ardent supporter of arts education and valued her opportunities to work with the Louisiana First Foundation and Teach MAM to further arts education in Louisiana’s schools. Cheryl will be remembered as a gifted leader and mentor in her promotion of arts and arts education around the state.”

LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

Yes Mam, No Mam, Thank you Mam = Teach MAM!

Teach MAM
(Music, Arts, Movement)

LOUISIANA
FOSTERS

ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING

03. GOVERNOR'S MANSION

2020 Ornament

The 2020 Ornament represents the Governor’s Mansion Mural. The original mural was painted in 2000 by Auseklis Ozols, which took him six months to paint. He painted the four corners of the state and often hides things in his murals. Auseklis painted something for each Governor in service since 1963, which marks the year of the construction of the Mansion. There are also many other historical facts, flowers of the state, produce of the state, different areas of the state highlighted in each corner of the mural.

The Foyer has become the focal point of the Governor’s Mansion. School children enjoy it, tourists from other parts of the country and international visitors. It is unique in that it is a one of a kind piece of history. Auseklis has returned during each new administration to add items to the Mansion that are significant to the particular First Family holding office at the time.

At the end of the Foyer, in the Rotunda area, hangs a beautiful Baccarat chandelier that was donated by the Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation during Governor John Bel Edwards’ Administration. Its beauty adorns the Rotunda area and completes the historical significance of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion.

VISIT GOVERNOR'S MANSION STORE

DOWNLOAD MEMBERSHIP FORM

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Mental Health
During a Pandemic

by Katie Corkern
Executive Director of Louisiana
Rural Mental Health Alliance

PEOPLE OF LOUISIANA

Making A Difference

Kevin McKee
The Chapel

COMMUNITY

READ

Kate Youngblood

SCHOOLS

READ

Jill Eaves

MILITARY

READ

Michelle Ezell

BUSINESS

READ

04. FEATURED RECIPE

Turkey and Sausage Gumbo

One of my favorite holiday traditions is taking the time to make homemade Gumbo with leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. It gives me time in the kitchen and fills the house with amazing smells! I hope you enjoy this traditional recipe, or one from your own family. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

READ RECIPE

SOMETHING TO DISCERN

05. PAST QUOTES

Gallery

: october

: september

: august

: july

: june

THE FIRST DOGS

06. THE FIRST DOGS

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

07. OUR EDITOR

DELERY RICE

After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications, she went on to receive a Masters in Non-Profit Management from Louisiana State University. 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.

October 1, 2020

Blog – October 2020

Click to Explore

OCTOBER 2020
Volume 2, Edition 12

A Word from the
First Lady of Louisiana

October
2020

Volume 2, Edition 12

Have you ever thought, “There’s no way I can feed the poor. I cannot possibly be a foster parent; I do not have the patience to tutor children or be a counselor, not me”? Have you ever thought, “I could never do these things because they are too intimidating? I would not know where to start?” We often think, what business is it of mine to get involved in such issues. We believe we are not equipped. We believe we do not have the perfect qualifications or have the right education.

I think we have all had these thoughts. It is easier to look and walk the other way. We believe that we cannot possibly help with specific issues. We think we cannot possibly help with problems or situations that ultimately affect our communities, which ultimately affect our lives and our children’s lives. So often I have looked the other way, thinking that I am just too tired and already have too much on my plate to help.

Our Louisiana First Foundation just completed a global Zoom summit. We were so honored to have many distinguished guests speak regarding their work to help eradicate human sex trafficking. Our guest speakers were: Monsignor Sorondo from the Vatican in Rome, Governor John Bel Edwards, Senator Ronnie Johns, Bill Wolff – Principal Deputy Director Office for Victims of Crime – USDJ, Dr. Dana Hunter – Governor’s Office, Juana Lombard – Former Commissioner of ATF, Jessica Milan Miller, M.A., MBA – First Lady of Georgia Marty Kemp, First Lady of Maryland Yumi Hogan, First Lady of Texas Cecilia Abbott, Father Jeff Bayhi – Diocese of Baton Rouge, Apostle and Officer Willie Brooks, Secretary Marketa Walters, and a human sex-trafficked survivor. There were also over 100 participants, including:

Law enforcement
CASA volunteers
CAC representatives
Caseworkers
many more wonderful people involved in the rescue and healing of those trafficked in our country

Each person listed above does their part toward identifying trafficked individuals, working on their rescue, and supporting the process of healing these victims’ bodies and souls. They assist these children and adults in becoming the people they were meant to be.

This work is hard, this crime is frightening, and this work is not for the weak of spirit. So why should you be involved?

These children and these adults that are being led falsely or captured into this crime of human sex trafficking are our brothers and sisters. These trafficked victims need us, our help, our voices, and our prayers.

What can you do?

*You can educate yourself on this horrific crime by knowing how it happens. Read stories to learn, understand how perpetrators use the internet to lure our children into their nets.

* You can support organizations in your community and state that rescue and heal these victims through your financial gifts, volunteering, and giving of needed supplies.

* When you see something that doesn’t look right, say something. Speak up for others and be their voice of help in need.

* You can PRAY!

Below is the link to our page on human sex trafficking. Please learn more about this crime that is quickly surpassing drug crimes. A drug can be used once, but unfortunately, a person can be used multiple times a day. USED is the word here. These people are USED for other purposes. We know that they are children of God and deserve to be renewed and loved by us all.

Human Trafficking Summit 2020 Recording:

https://zoom.us/rec/share/JwQLrmlKFKtSGEYZCWTrBx1zjZ3mNW1lYnO_-rJHeaf6yY15Sgv23_cDZSu8dr6l.So7bI5ouL5GbWE7D

Lord,
Stir up in us your spirit of compassion and allow us to see your image in each person. Use us, Lord, to be your vessel to pour out your love on others.
Amen

Love to All,

Hurricane Laura and Her Impact
on Transportation and Infrastructure

by Secretary Shawn Wilson, Ph.D.

While the response to Hurricane Laura for some Louisianans is in the rearview mirror, the destruction remains at the forefront for those in her path. The recognition that the long and steep road to recovery is palpable.

Mangled power lines intertwined with vegetative and construction-related debris, cause unmatched destruction from natural disasters like Laura and disable local infrastructure because it is built on an interconnected network. Flooding and wind damage can destabilize virtually every basic service, as we saw with Laura because nearly every system depends on electricity. Distribution and transmission power lines collapse under winds nearing 150mph. Water damage erodes and undermines roadways, creating channels that destroy the foundations of roads, embankments, and the mechanics of movable bridges. Infrastructure damage after a hurricane is widespread and can affect all sorts of commonly used spaces and systems. Infrastructure disruptions caused by any natural disaster result in considerable costs to families and communities in months and years to come, not including the expense from the immediate need for interim living arrangements and personal property cleanup.

Yes Mam, No Mam, Thank you Mam = Teach MAM!

LEARN MORE

LEARN MORE

GOVERNOR'S MANSION

DOCENTS

Pictured: Sue Potts, Governor John Bel Edwards, First Lady Donna Edwards, Alice Fay Smith, and Leona Benoit.

The Louisiana Governor’s Mansion has provided private visitor tours for many years. In 2016, First Lady Donna Edwards had an idea to enrich the experience even further. Through the Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation (GMPF), First Lady Edwards expanded and enhanced the Docents Program. As a teacher, the First Lady found an opportunity to ask retired teachers to participate as docents. Most of these wonderful women were already volunteering as tour guides for other State historical buildings, so this was a perfect fit! Currently, five docents volunteer to show visitors the first floor and grounds of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. With their teaching backgrounds, they give the most memorable experience to everyone who walks through the doors. The Governor and First Lady are grateful for their dedication to this program and host a Docent’s Luncheon every year to thank the docents. The table is set with fine china and baccarat crystal to create the most prestigious occasion honoring these women’s hard work over the years. Read more so you can “meet” some of the docents:

VISIT GOVERNOR'S MANSION STORE

DOWNLOAD MEMBERSHIP FORM

Women’s Health Blog
October 2020

Gisele McKinney, M.D.

We Are Louisiana Strong

This phrase is awe-inspiring and catchy! It is not by accident that the strongest and deadliest hurricanes in Louisiana are all named in honor of women: Katrina, Rita, and now – Laura. She carries the distinction of being the strongest storm in Louisiana history. We are indeed grateful that Marco limped toward the coast and didn’t bring the anticipated storm surges forecasted initially. The sheer devastation of Laura will take our small area, Lake Charles, many years to overcome. But overcome, we will.

Rendering healthcare in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura has had some unique challenges. With the destruction of the Women’s Campus of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital’s plant operations facility, the obliteration of Archer Institute, and the lesser damage to the Main Campus and the other area hospitals taking damage, we made care we were accustomed to a memory. The most heart wrenching were those without the means to evacuate, no running water, electricity, food, or diapers for their children. You see, the pandemic and its long ranging ramifications left many without means to fill their tanks, much less find a place to land safely if they could evacuate. For those, the loss of basic amenities like water and food took a physical and emotional toll. Our neighbors came to our rescue with services from The Red Cross, Jennings, and many other neighboring communities, religious and secular organizations.

LEARN MORE

PEOPLE OF LOUISIANA Making a Difference

fourth-district-baptist-missionary-badge

COMMUNITY

Fourth District Missionary Baptist Association

Hurricane Laura Relief Efforts

Disaster Relief Management is a division of the Fourth District Missionary Baptist Association of Louisiana, a non-profit Christian community of over 65 churches from six parishes. Included are East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, West Feliciana, Iberville, and Pointe Coupee. The goal of the Disaster Relief division is to aid in prompt assistance without discrimination to victims of human-made and natural disasters, achieve rapid recovery to those impacted, and avoid potential losses through safety training.

Learn More

SCHOOLS

Trinette L. Wallace

Lafourche Parish
West Thibodaux Middle School
6th-grade Ancient History Teacher

River Deep: Navigating Through Uncharted Waters
with Patience and Dedication

On September 4, 2020, I was shocked and overwhelmed when I learned of my nomination as the 2021 Louisiana Middle School State Teacher of the Year. (You may view a video of this surprise announcement here.) As I reflected on the process that got me here, so many things come to my mind.

Learn More

MILITARY

Gold Star Families
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs

Each year on the last Sunday in September, Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes and honors the Gold Star mothers and families who have lost a son or a daughter in the service to our country. While it was not possible to gather in the Veterans Memorial Park on the grounds of the State Capitol this year as we have in years past, we have not forgotten the sacrifice these mothers and families have made. This year, they were honored virtually through a video with stories from three Gold Star surviving spouses.

Learn More

BUSINESS

Bridget Tate
Owner, Lighting Stylist
CAPITAL CITY LIGHTING

After 14 years as a stay at home mom, Bridget Tate got a part-time job at a small local lighting boutique. She began by working with the occasional walk in to help pick out a fixture from the showroom floor. Within two years, she worked full time and had more than doubled this small boutique’s sales. How? She knew that social media was an essential tool for growing a business in an age where everyone has their phone with them at all times. Bridget launched an Instagram account and added some refreshing content to its Facebook page to increase its content and following.

Learn More

FEATURED RECIPE

RECOVERY RED BEANS & RICE

Immediately after landfall of Laura, Chef Amy Sins posted a Facebook call to action. It read, “Chefs- I have product – RED BEANS and RICE, about 2000 lbs. of each. If we could get some of this to you, could you cook it and chill it for us? We can have the foodbank pick it up. They’re maxed out on capacity between COVID and Hurricane Laura, but I need the cooked product to send out”.

Something To Discern

Park your broom
and sit for a spell!

Delery Rice,
Our Editor

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.

After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications, she went on to receive a Masters in Non-Profit Management from Louisiana State University. 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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September 1, 2020