WOMEN’Swww.womenscommissionswla.comFALLCONFERENCE Thursday, October 20, 2022 | Lake Charles Civic Center
Our theme “Rebuild Renew” was selected for that very reason. As Conference Chair for 2022, it is truly my honor to invite you to mark your calendars for October 20, 2022. My hope is that each of you walk away from the conference with a renewed mind and spirit.We are honored to have Emmy nominee, Sheryl Lee Ralph, as Keynote Speaker. You can currently watch her play Mrs. Howard on the hit TV show “Abbott Elementary”. She has played in several Broadway plays and on screen in Designing Women, Dream Girls, Sister Act, and many others. Sheryl Lee Ralph is an internationally acclaimed motivational and inspirational speaker and an award-winning actress who delivers empowering and thoughtprovoking keynotes on family, faith, love, and overcoming obstacles. Ralph is founder of The Diva Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing critical health challenges through arts and advocacy. She can speak passionately on a variety of subjects, and also performs her transformational one-woman show, Sometimes I Cry, which is based on women’s stories about health and well-being.
Rebuild Renew perfectly defines what our city has been through for this year’s Fall Conference. It will be a mix of the best workshops to educate, rejuvenate, and motivate. We will also have marketplace vendors with something for everyone to enjoy. Lunch is provided, so take this opportunity to have fellowship with friends and colleagues. Hopefully we can all leave feeling inspired. We at the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana have been here supporting our community through various service projects as well as by providing scholarships. These scholarships, made possible through the proceeds of this conference, establish a foundation for deserving young ladies who attend both McNeese State University and SOWELA Technical Community College . Please join us as we celebrate and create a path forward for many years to come!
Being Grateful, Being Thankful and Being Blessed. This is the motto that I have stressed throughout this year because each day we wake up knowing tomorrow is not promised. As women, we wear many hats. We are mothers, caretakers, therapists, sisters and most importantly we are friends. The challenges we face are never easy, but we find the strength to keep putting one foot in front of the other and climb each mountain that presents itself. Southwestern Louisiana has faced a multitude of natural disasters in the past two years. Many have rebuilt their lives and their businesses, while others are still working through this process.
WithVelikagratitude,STrahan
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ChairConferenceFallPresident,Vice SPONSORS
Register now at PLATINUMwww.womenscommissionswla.comSPONSORSAMessagefrom
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Ralph
On the big screen, Ralph has worked with some of Hollywood’s leading and award-winning men with credits that include “The Mighty Quinn” opposite Denzel Washington, “Mistress” with Robert de Niro, “To Sleep with Anger” with Danny Glover and “The Distinguished Gentlemen” with Eddie Murphy. She also appeared opposite Whoopi Goldberg in “Sister Act II.” Ralph picked up a win for Best Supporting Actress at the Independent Spirit Awards for her performance in “To Sleep with Anger.” Finding success in writing and directing, Ralph’s award-winning short film “Secrets,” co-starring award-winning actress Alfre Woodard and Robin Givens, was a finalist in the HBO Film Short Competition, Showtime’s Filmmaker Award Series and the BET Filmmaker Award Competition. The film was also selected as the audience favorite at the Outfest Film Festival. “Secrets” was screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, as well as the Hollywood Film Festival, the Acapulco Film Festival and the Urban World Film Festival. Ralph is also the creator of the Jamerican Film and Music Festival. Most recently, Ralph completed four back-to-back movies: “Just Getting Started” opposite Morgan Freeman, Tommy Lee Jones and Rene Russo; “Christmas at Holly Lodge” for Hallmark; Netflix’s “Step Sisters” with Naturi Naughton and produced by Lena Waithe; and “No Sleep Til Christmas” for Freeform. In theater, Ralph is well known for her awardwinning work, creating the role of Deena Jones in the legendary Broadway musical “Dreamgirls,” which earned her Best Actress nods for Tony and Drama Desk Awards. Ralph most recently appeared on Broadway as Madame Horrible in “Wicked,” becoming the first African American actress to take on the classic role. She also holds the title of producer on Broadway’s “Thoughts of a Colored Man” at The John Golden Theatre (October 2021-March 2022). Additional Broadway credits include the Tony Award-winning musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” and reuniting with Loretta Devine and Jennifer Holliday for a sold-out, one-night-only “Dreamgirls” reunion celebrating the 35th anniversary.Asawriter, Ralph’s debut book, “Redefining Diva: Life Lessons from the Original Dreamgirl” (Simon & Schuster), instantly became a national bestselling title and gave readers a personal look into her triumphs and tribulations over the years, navigating life with courage, wit, andWhilestrength.working in front of the camera keeps Ralph busy, she is also a passionate health advocate and honored AIDS activist. She is the founding director of the DIVA (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation 501(C)3 which she created in memory of the many friends she had lost to HIV/AIDS. She also created the critically acclaimed Divas Simply Singing!, an evening of song and entertainment that is the longest consecutive running musical AIDS benefit in the country. Ralph was awarded the first Red Ribbon Award at the UN for her unique use of the arts in HIV/AIDS activism and was recently appointed as an AIDS Ambassador for Jamaica’s Ministry of Health. Ralph is a mother of two with a blended family of four, and loves every moment of motherhood and marriage. She is happily married to State Senator Vincent Hughes of Pennsylvania.
From bringing characters to life on screen, performing on Broadway, producing, landing the title of national bestselling author with her literary debut and her deep-rooted philanthropic endeavors which touch lives across the world, Tony® Award nominee, NAACP Image Award nominee and Independent Spirit Award winner Sheryl Lee Ralph has become a staple in the entertainment industry with an acclaimed career spanning over three decades. Ralph be seen as Barbara starring on ABC’s highly acclaimed comedy series “Abbott Elementary” opposite Quinta Brunson. In this laugh-out-loud workplace comedy, “Abbott Elementary” follows a group of teachers brought together in a Philadelphia public school simply because they love teaching. They rely on one another to make it through the day and find a way to counteract the school district’s indifferent attitude toward educating children. Ralph shines as Barbara, a longtime and respected teacher. “Abbott Elementary” premiered in January 2022. In film, Ralph will reprise her scenestealing role as Claudette opposite Jon Voight and Liev Schreiber in Showtime’s upcoming feature “Ray Donovan” (2022). The critically acclaimed, award-winning series ran from 2013-2020, and the film will pick up where season seven left off. Additional credits for Ralph include starring in over 100 episodes of “Moesha” opposite GRAMMY® Award winner Brandy, a lead role opposite Tia Mowry in three seasons of Nickelodeon’s hit series “Instant Mom,” and appearances on “Barbershop,” “ER,” “It’s a Living,” “New Attitude,” “George,” “Designing Women,” “Two Broke Girls,” “Smash,” “Criminal Minds,” “MacGyver,” “One Mississippi” and “Claws.” Ralph is currently recurring as President Kelly Wade on Freeform’s supernatural drama series “Motherland.”
2022 Women’s Fall Conference Keynote Speaker: SherylLee
A Spiritual Moment Pastor Hope Snider, Christian World Back by popular demand, allow Pastor Snider’s faith guide you to a refreshing break in our busy world and enjoy a comforting moment away from the noises of life.
Dr. Lacey Cavanaugh, Medical Director of Office of Public Health, Tanya McGee, Imperial Calcasieu Human Service Authority
Do you want to live a healthy, happy and vibrant life? This panel will offer their best tips for renewing, restoring, revitalizing, and rejuvenating your life. Join the hosts while they provide transforming information, enjoy a makeover segment with fashions from Chico’s FAS, and learn tips on how to improve your health and wellness. Free giveaways and lots of surprises!
COX COX CAMEL &
The opioid epidemic has far-reaching tenacles throughout SWLA. These experts will share valuable information and available resources to assist families and individuals affected in so many ways by this tragic medical emergency. “Harvesting and Homesteading” Lynne LaVergne, Agribusiness and Family & Consumer Sciences Specialist Learn what to do with all that food bounty! Explore tips and tricks to make the most of fresh produce from your garden or those bought in bulk, as well as to organize outdoor space for yearround gardening, a wise move in our current economy!
OchsnerCHRISTUS9:40amHealthHealthSystem
“Don’t Get Scammed!” Angela Guth, President and C.E.O., Better Business Bureau Serving Southwest Louisiana Do not allow yourself to fall victim to the many scammers waiting to prey on all of us. Whether online or on social media or at your door, scammers lay in wait. Allow Angela Guth to share with you her invaluable tips to avoid becoming yet another victim!
SESSION I 9:00 –
SESSION II 10:10 – 11:00am
“Women’s Self Defense” Lieutenant Joshua Donavan, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Do not pass up this opportunity to learn the proper techniques of selfdefense and the importance of situation awareness. Trained in firearms, handto-hand combat, SWAT and more. This Marine Corps Veteran; Senior Sergeant, will provide you with critical skills and information. Your life may one day depend on the knowledge shared by this renowned and proven expert in his field.
PLATINUM SPONSOR “Lumps, Bumps and Your Ta-Ta’s” Amanda Ellington, MD Every breast is unique and equipping you with the best knowledge of how to take care of YOURS is essential.
Home Health 2000 PLATINUM SPONSOR “Journey to Vitality” Stephanie Morris, BSN, Dawn Reed, M.Ed., CPHQ, Pastor Hope Snider, Dr. Lakisha Williams, PSY.D., Carolyn Shelton, Chef & Life Coach
How
SWLA’s breast expert, Amanda Ellington, MD. General Surgeon with Lake Charles Memorial Health System, will share ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer, how to manage abnormal screenings and how to keep your “girls” healthy.
WILSON
“The Opioid Epidemic in SWLA”
Coliseum WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS 2022
PLATINUM
Lake Charles Memorial Health System
SPONSOR
FILO
11:15 - Luncheon with Keynote Speaker Sheryl Lee Ralph in the
Social Media Can affect your Claims & other important legal tips!
PLATINUM SPONSOR “Why Weight?” Dr. Matias Nauts Why Weight? Weight loss has eluded many for years. Although most diet and fitness plans report that it is as simple as calories in versus calories out, it is not always that simple (or easy) for many women. CHRISTUS Ochsner General Surgeon, Dr. Matias Nauts, will explore why weight loss is important and why it is sometimes so tough. He will also explore what options you have if you feel like you have tried it all.
“Plan While You Still Can”
SESSION III Lundy,1:30-2:20pmLundy, Soileau & South, LLP
“To Serve and To Be Served” Sister Miriam MacLean. RSM, PhD, LCSW, Executive Director, Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana
The old “Health Unit” concept has grown and developed into so much more with a wealth of no cost and low-cost resources for a wide array of health and medical issues. This panel of experts will share those opportunities and provide everyone with a tour of the actual new Mobile Medical Unit housed in Calcasieu Parish. West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
PLATINUM SPONSOR “In Search of Optimal Health; A Woman’s Guide” Suzy Gillard Trahan, LDN, RDW, Wellness Director, Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Centers and Vanessa Hardy, MS, LDN, RDN, Work Well Employee Wellness Coordinator for West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Health can be defined as “a state of optimal well-being, not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.”
PLATINUM SPONSOR
What about the future? Take purposeful steps in planning now to bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
Optimal health requires a balance of all things related to the person as a whole-body, mind and spirit, but what does optimal health really feel or look like? While hormones play a key role in the development of diseases and aging, there are many lifestyle choices you can make that are easy and effective ways to improve your overall health. Learn how to start your own personal journey.
It doesn’t always require an electrician for small electrical issues. The lady or man of the house can get it done! Stations and equipment will be provided for hands-on training.
“Promoting Self-Sufficiency and a Personal Intro to the Calcasieu Mobile Medical Unit” Dr. Lacey Cavanaugh, Medical Director of Office of Public Health, Tanya McGee, Imperial Calcasieu Human Service Authority, Erika Doshier, Assistant Director of the Division of Human Services
Aetna Better Health of Louisiana Healthcare Trends & Insights PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Fuel Up!” Learn how healthy food can affect your mood and mental health. Don’t miss this fun session where Aetna’s Dietician will share insights on how comfort-food lovers can eat healthy! Additional offerings and revisions will be available online at workshop-guide/womenscommissionswla.com///https://
There is far more to Catholic Charities than just food distributions! Learn about the many services of Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana, serving at various sites within the five-parish area, as well as the many opportunities available to serve others. “Learn what you are good at and exploit it in service to others.”-Larry Winget SESSION IV 2:40-3:30pm “Medical Insurance Made Easy” Kathy Sonnier, Hub International Getting ready to retire? Have a question on your medical insurance coverage? Learn how to navigate the Medical and Medicare Maze in this interactive workshop. “Plugged In – Live Wire Lady 101” Kim Montie, Executive Director, Cameron Parish Port, Harbor and Terminal District
“Pasta – It’s More Than Just Spaghetti!” Michael Gardner, Creator/Owner, Pasta Lab Lake Charles is now home to Pasta Lab – a magical place where flour, water and egg is transformed into delicious and artistic dining adornments! Creator Michael Gardner will share all the magic and secrets of pasta.
PRESIDENTS 1989 Penny Houston 1990 Lisa Ferguson 1991 Daphne Saxby Oliver 1992 Wava Reigel 1993 Dr. Harriet Green 1994 Carole Blair 1995 Anne Chitty 1996 De Ann Derbonne 1997 Beverly Gradney St. Mary 1998 Sattaria “Tari” Dilks 1999 Karen Barrington 2000 Linda LeBert-Corbello 2001 Carol Machado Henry 2002 Cindy Morrissey 2003 Betty Harlow Anderson 2004 Karen Drewett 2006 Betty Harlow Anderson 2007 Melisa McMillian Adrian 2008 Melisa McMillian Adrian 2009 Pamela Stracener Golding 2010 Angela Worley Pierson 2011 Fran Clophus 2012 Debbie Boudreaux 2013 Debra Lastrapes 2014 Sue Conn 2015 Krystle Johnson 2016 Krystle Johnson 2017 Tammy Thibodeaux 2018 Tammy Thibodeaux 2019 Cynthia Tomlinson 2020 Kathy Sonnier 2021 Kathy Sonnier 2022 Carol Henry FALL CHAIRPERSONSCONFERENCE
31 YEAR HISTORY
y of Leadership
1990 Lisa Ferguson 1991 Wava Reigel 1992 Dr. Harriet Green 1993 Carole Blair 1994 Anne Chitty 1995 De Ann Derbonne 1996 Beverly St. Mary 1997 Sattaria Dilks 1998 Karen Barrington 1999 Erica Toatley 2000 Carol Henry 2001 Cindy Morrissey 2002 Debbie Acuff 2003 Karen Drewett 2004 Melisa McMillian Adrian 2006 Melisa McMillian Adrian 2007 Melonie Himel 2008 Pamela Stracener Golding 2009 Angela Guth 2010 Fran Clophus 2011 Debra Lastrapes 2012 Debbie Boudreaux 2013 Sue Conn 2014 Krystle Johnson 2015 Dena Everage 2016 Tammy Thibodeaux 2017 Selena Cisneros 2018 Cynthia Tomlinson 2019 Kathy Sonnier 2020 Carol Henry 2021 Carol Henry 2022 Velika Hurst-Trahan JACK V. DOLAND AWARD RECIPIENTS 1991 Joanna S. Viccellio 1992 Willie L. Mount 1993 Leona Clements 1994 Blanche Michel 1995 Rose Spencer 1996 Angela Miller 1997 Dr. Lajuana Lee 1998 Dr. Nancy Shepard 1999 Faye Barnhart 2000 Evelyn Cloutman 2001 Bertha Stoner 2002 Rosalie “Poddy” Champeaux 2003 Judge Patricia H. Minaldi 2004 Koni Bridges 2006 Anne Gillett Monlezun 2007 Jennifer Jones 2008 Ann Polak 2009 Clarice Raichel 2010 Pearl Cole 2011 Dr. Susan Jones 2012 Jennie Finch Daigle 2013 Christy Papania Jones 2014 Ethel Precht 2015 Stella B. Miller 2016 Jeri Christ Landry 2017 Judge Lilynn Cutrer 2018 Dianne Frelot 2019 DeWanna Tarver 2021 Sister Miriam MacLean KEYNOTE SPEAKERS 1990 Devon O’Day 1991 Dr. Ruth Westheimer 1992 Deborah Norville 1993 Mary Landrieu 1994 Mary Lou Retton 1995 Ann Jillian 1996 Cathy Lee Crosby 1997 Trisha Hessinger 1998 Bertrice Berry 1999 Phyllis Yvonne Stickney 2000 Morgan Fairchild 2001 Kim Alexis 2002 Peggy Fleming 2003 Naomi Judd 2004 Mariel Hemmingway 2006 Barbara Mandrell 2007 Dixie Carter 2008 Debbie Allen 2009 Meredith Baxter 2010 Jane Pauley 2011 Vicki Lawrence 2012 Joan Lunden 2013 Leigh Anne Tuohy 2014 Star Jones 2015 Leeza Gibbons 2016 Phylicia Rashad 2017 Genevieve Gorder 2018 Tamron Hall 2019 Taya Kyle 2021 Marilu Henner 2022 Sheryl Lee Ralph
Legac
2 vendor passes) Envelopes postmarked October 4, 2022. 250.00 I will provide my own table covering! Yes No ($5.00 per white table cloth if we provide) Total Payment Name of Worker # 1 ______________________ Worker # 1 Email Address: ________________________ Name of Worker # 2 ______________________ Worker # 2 Email Address: ________________________ Additional Worker Passes must be purchased through Registration either online or by mail. NOTE: Each vendor must furnish his or her own electrical extension cord(s) and equipmen For companies that allow only one vender per event, the first one to register will have priority. Floor Preference (cannot be guaranteed): Additional Comments: Early Bird Reservation Postmark Deadline is June 30, 2022 Regular Reservation Postmark Deadline is September 17, 2 Payment and form may be submitted by check or money order. You must return this form with your check made payable to: Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. – MarketPlace PO Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606 Questions: Please contact Thail Pete at (337)540-5521, MarketPlace Chair, or email marketplace@womenscommissionswla.com CANCELLATION POLICY: $25.00 non refundable fee. Balance may be refunded if canceled by No refunds will be granted on or after September 24, 2022.
I will provide my own table covering! ($5.00 per white table cloth if we provide)TotalPayment Enclosed Name of Business or Agency as it should appear on print materials: ____________________ Marketing Agency Name, if different than Business Name: __________________________ Items you will be displaying or selling: ________________________________________________ Business Address (Street, City/State/Zip):_____________________________________________ Contact Person: ________________________________________________________ Daytime Phone Number: ________________________________________________ Website Address: ______________________________________________________ Email Address: ________________________________________________________ Name of Worker #1____________________________________________ Worker #1 Email Address: ____________________________________________ Name of Worker #2 _ Worker #2 Email Address: __ Additional Worker Passes must be purchased through Registration either online or by mail. NOTE: Each vendor must furnish his or her own electrical extension cord(s) and Floorequipment.Preference (cannot be guaranteed): _______________________________________ Additional Comments: ___________________________________________________ marketplace application: Regular Reservation Postmark Deadline is September 17, 2022 Payment and form may be submitted by check or money order. You must return this form with your check made payable to: Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. – MarketPlace PO Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606 Questions: Please email marketplace@womenscommissionswla.com CANCELLATION POLICY: $25.00 non-refundable fee. Balance may be refunded if canceled by September 20, 2022. No refunds will be granted on or after September 24, 2022. NOYES registration: Women's Commission of Southwest Louisiana, I Annual Women’s Fall Conference Thursday, October 20, 2022 Lake Charles Civic Center, Lake Charles LA MarketPlace Reservation/Application Name of Business or Agency as it should appear on print Marketingmaterials:Agency Name, if different than Business Name: Items you will be displaying or selling: Business Address (Street, City/State/Zip):
Late plus
Last Name ____________________________ First Name_________________________ Business Name ___________________________________________________________ Home Address ____________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________ State ________ Zip __________ Daytime Phone _____________________ Alt./Cell Phone ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________________________________ FEES AND DEADLINES: Credit card payments can only be accepted ONLINE or ON-SITE. Online or Mail-in: $40 (Online Registration ends at 11:59 on 10/14 & Mail-in must be Postmarked on/before Fri 10/14) On-Site: $52 Table of 8: $400 Includes 8 conference passes and a reserved table at the luncheon SPECIAL SERVICES: If you require special accommodations, please check below): I will need handicap access I am hearing impaired/hard of hearing Mail Completed form, with check or money order to: Women’s Commission of SWLA - Registration PO Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606 PLEASE USE ONE FORM PER PERSON TO REGISTER. For Committee Use Only: Postmark Date:__________________ Check #____________ Amt: _______ or Money Order # ____________ Amt: _______ REGISTER IN ONE OF 3 EASY WAYS: ONLINE: Register at www.womenscommissionswla.com. Registration cost – $40. Deadline is Friday, October 14 , 2022 at 11:59 p.m. MAIL-IN: Complete this form, and mail with check/money order (payable to Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc.) to the address listed at the bottom of this form. Fees and deadlines listed below. Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. P.O. Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606 Registration cost - $40. Deadline is October 14, postmarked on or before.
Table Reservations and Fees - It is important that you review the Fall 2022 Conference MarketPlace Guidelines on website. Price PassTable/Per Regular Reservations – Starts July 1, 2022. Fee must be paid in full. (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelope must be postmarked by September 17, 2022. $225.00 – Fees must be paid in full (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelopes postmarked October 4, 2022. $250.00 Contact Person: Website Address: Daytime Phone Number: Email Address: Table Reservations and Fees - It is important that you review the Fall 2020 Conference MarketPlace Guidelines enclosed and posted on website.
Late Reservation
ON-SITE: On-site registration is available at the Lake Charles Civic Center Ticket Office beginning Monday, October 17th until Thursday, October 20th (Day of Conference). The cost of on-site registration is $50 plus a $2 service fee for a total of $52 per person. For additional registration information, registration@womenscommissionswla.com.email
Early Bird Registration- Starts April 4, 2022 Fee must be paid in full. (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelope must be postmarked by June 30, 2022. $175.00 Regular Reservations – Starts July 1, 2022, Fee must be paid in full. (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelope must be postmarked by September 17, 2022. $225.00
Reservation – Fees must be paid in full (Space
Table/PassPrice
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We will be following the local COVID guidelines at the time of the event. Please consider that in any place where people are present, there is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 or other infectious diseases. Although we have implemented recommended practices to promote the health and safety for all of our attendees and event staff, we cannot ensure or be held liable that the premises are free from contagions. By voluntarily entering and being present at this event, you (and each person in your party) acknowledge and agree to accept complete and sole responsibility for the inherent risk of possible exposure. As official local health guidelines evolve regarding COVID-19 safety protocols, the venue may shift seating configurations and/or increase capacity. Commission
of Southwest Louisiana Inc. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2022 SPONSORS
Register now at PLATINUMwww.womenscommissionswla.comSPONSORSDIAMONDSPONSORS
Women’s
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Matilda Gray Stream Calcasieu Refining Com SASOLpany Imperial ShearmanHealthFoundation
