Women's Commission of SWLA Fall Conference 2021 by Thrive Magazine

WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE Thursday, October 21, 2021 | Lake Charles Civic Center

In Celebration of Women

Celebrating

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Years

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A MESSAGE FROM THE CONFERENCE CHAIR prayerful, more thoughtful, more careful and perhaps more aware of the fragility of life than ever before.

Seldom has the tenacity, resiliency, determination and resolve of the women of southwest Louisiana been tested as we have been since spring of 2020 and beyond. From the uncertainties of COVID-19 to the devastation inflicted by Hurricanes Laura and Delta, we have witnessed a bit of a different way of life evolve over the course of these two years, but one thing remains certain. The women of southwest Louisiana not only survived the challenges but emerged stronger and ready to embrace a lifestyle that may be more

All of those attributes and so many more are celebrated each and every October at the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana’s Fall Conference. We are so happy and privileged to have the opportunity to host this year, following our heartbreaking cancellation last year. As Chair of this 30th Anniversary event, it is truly my honor to invite you to mark your calendars for October 21, 2021, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. And, what a privilege it is to share that our Keynote Speaker is the renowned Marilu Henner, star of hit television series’ “Taxi” and “Evening Shade”, and New York Times Best Selling author of 10 health, memory, parenting and lifestyle improvement books. “Celebrating 30 Years with Pearls of Wisdom” perfectly defines this year’s Fall Conference, a mix of the best of the best of workshops to educate, rejuvenate and motivate, MarketPlace

vendors with something for everyone, and a Keynote Speaker to spark our intellect, all while enjoying an inspiring day, including a lovely lunch with friends and colleagues. The Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana has been here since 1990, supporting Southwest Louisiana in so many ways, from community service to scholarships at McNeese State University and SOWELA Technical Community College for well deserving young ladies striving to do their very best for themselves and their families, scholarships made possible through the proceeds of this very conference. Please join us as we celebrate 30 years and create a path forward for many years to come! With gratitude to so many,

Carol Henry

Vice President Fall Conference Chair

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R S

2021 Women’s Fall Conference

Keynote S peak er:

Marilu Henner With the energy of a teenager, the wisdom of a sage, and the memory of a superhero, Marilu Henner has done it all! Along with starring in sixty-eight films, seven Broadway shows, and two hit classic sitcoms, “Taxi” and “Evening Shade,” this five-time Golden Globe Nominee is also a “New York Times” Best Selling author of ten books on health, parenting, memory, and lifestyle improvement. Marilu has hosted and executive produced her own nationally syndicated talk shows (Marilu and Shape Up Your Life) and her own radio show, “The Marilu Henner Show.” As a two-time competitor on “Celebrity Apprentice” and “Celebrity Apprentice All-Stars,” Marilu made it to the Final Five and played for The Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) and the Alzheimer’s Association. She also competed on the 23rd season of “Dancing with the Stars” on ABC reaching the quarterfinals. Henner currently co-stars with Candace Cameron Bure in the ongoing Hallmark Murders and Mysteries series Aurora Teagarden written by Charlaine Harris. As one of only twelve people documented with Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory, Marilu was the subject of a three-part special on “60 Minutes” and on “60 Minutes Australia,” as well as news programs and newspaper articles around the globe. She also served as the consultant on the CBS series “Unforgettable” for all four seasons. Marilu has spoken before Congress on ten occasions on everything from dietary supplements to women’s cardiovascular disease, to The Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act, to deadbeat parents, to funding for Alzheimer’s.

October 21

Lake Charles Civic Center Doors open at 8:00 am Inspire • Empower • Network

Marilu is a keynote speaker throughout the country on topics including memory, diet and fitness, women’s health issues, cardiovascular disease, cancer survival, and child rearing, as well as lifestyle, entertainment, and business organization strategies.

WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS 2021 SESSION I 9:00 – 9:40AM

SESSION II 10:10 – 11:00AM Lake Charles Memorial Health System PLATINUM SPONSOR “Ages and Stages of Women’s Health Panel”

“Organize and Simplify” Organization + Simplification is the formula to saving time and decreasing stress. Transform your space and transform your life! From consulting to organizing and from staging to decorating, Lynsi is happy to assist!

11:15 - Luncheon with Keynote Speaker Marilu Henner in the Coliseum

CHRISTUS Health/Ochsner Health System PLATINUM SPONSOR “Why Robotic Surgery?” Find out why Robotic Surgery is better and test drive the robot during this CHRISTUS Ochsner Health Southwestern Louisiana panel featuring: Uzma Naeem, M.D., OB/GYN, Matias Nauts, D.O., General Surgeon, Edward Rutland, M.D., Urologist, Justin Rudd, M.D., General Surgeon, Niazy Selim, M.D., General & Bariatric Surgeon “From A to Z and Head to Toe, We’ve Got You Covered!”

With a wide variety of experience, personally and professionally, these providers will speak about the stages of women’s health throughout a lifetime. The second half of the session will include a Q&A session for participants to ask any burning questions and get expert advice about any women’s health issues.

“Wake Up & Make Up” Professional Make-up and Skin Care Specialist and Hair Stylist, Bauhaus Salon + Haus Spa

Maybe it’s time to spruce up your look! Get the tools and techniques you need to elevate your beauty routine. Whether it’s for a night out or a transition into the new season, our hair and skin specialists at Bauhaus Salon are here to help you look and feel your best.

“Trade Your Pain for Pearls” Pastor Hope Snider, Christian World

We have all felt pain in our life - from physical to emotional to mental. Let’s learn how to change every disappointment into a Divine appointment. Let’s turn every hurt into hope. Let’s trade our pain for a pearl!

“Women’s Self Defense” Joshua Donavan, Senior Sergeant, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office

Do not pass up this opportunity to learn the proper techniques of self-defense and the importance of situation awareness. Trained in firearms, hand-to-hand combat, SWAT and more, Marine Corps Veteran Senior Sergeant Donavan 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. (Repeated in Session 4)

Cox, Cox, Filo, Camel & Wilson PLATINUM SPONSOR “Hurricane Claim Questions? Ask Expert Somer Brown” Somer Brown, Attorney/Partner, Cox, Cox, Filo, Camel & Wilson

Hear from the expert on best methodology for handling insurance claims in the aftermath of a disaster, especially a devastating hurricane. Know that you are not alone! “Creating Beautiful Places in Outdoor Spaces” Eric Durr, Owner, My Builder

Evening time, weekend time, any time is the best time to enjoy the outdoors. Create a comfortable and cozy oasis… a home just outside your home with as much or as little as you desire in stone and brick work, appliances and so much more! Make MY Builder YOUR Builder! “Broadway Tunes & Biblical Texts: The Song & Spirit of Bouncing Back for Battered Southwest Louisiana Souls” Reverend Whitney Miller, Ph.D., L.P.C., Director of Diocesan Counseling Services

In the history of our shared humankind, folks of every age have experienced tough times and responded in remarkable ways, many recorded in the stories of stage and theater, as well as on the pages of sacred scripture. We all need a little inspiration right about now to continue moving forward with hope, faith, and compassion. Join Father Whitney as he leads us onward and upward with a song in our hearts and a blessing for our souls!

Discussion about the very real link between anxiety, stress and depression to a lower quality of sleep…along with useful tips and recommendations for improvement.

SESSION IV 2:40-3:30PM

Vanessa Hardy, MS, LDN, RD, Wellness Coordinator, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

First Federal Bank of Louisiana PLATINUM SPONSOR “Roadmap to Ownership” Debra Lewis AVP/Lender and Shana Maxfield AVP/ Lender

Curious about the home buying process? Let us be your tour guides on your journey to homeownership. Learn the ins and outs of budgeting for a down payment, strengthening your credit score, and understanding the mortgage process. If you’re looking to renovate or repair, your home’s equity can be harnessed to pay for that new kitchen, backyard oasis, or new house paint color. We’ll help you find your way to your dream home!

Rhonda Kleckley and Lindsay Fusilier, Accessory Zone

Allow Rhonda and Lindsay to inspire you with their wealth of knowledge to develop your personal style with simple approaches. Since 1986, they have been a landmark “go to” for classic and cutting-edge style! Stop by and explore adult and children’s wear, tableware, and all things in between at Accessory Zone’s new home in Palm Plaza.

Phillip Conner, M.D., Sleep Disorder Center of Louisiana

“Weigh Beyond: Your Path to Wellness”

SESSION III 1:30-2:30PM

Gisele McKinney, MD; Danette Null, MD; Samantha LaRocque, LPSW

“CORONAsomnia and HURRICANE Nightmares-They are Real! The Sleep Pandemics Affecting Your Life”

“Moving Through Life: Why Movement Health Matters” Suzy Gillard Trahan, Director, Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Center

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital DIAMOND SPONSOR Movement health is essential for injury prevention and overall wellness. Learn the importance of movement training to prepare the body for what life throws your way. Learn how to “train for life” from one of Southwest Louisiana’s experts in the field of wellness. “NOT Your Usual Convenience Store”

Kendal Henry, Owner, The Mercantile at Henry’s Travel Plaza

Just south of Exit 48 on I-10, just inside the doors of a convenience store, is a discerning shopper’s dream boutique that includes a wide array of lovely unique pewter, jewelry, Conseula bags, custom furniture and furnishings, Orleans Fragrances, hand-painted hair bows and so much more! How do you put all of that together to arrive at that “Together Look”? Learn the tips and techniques of home décor and so much more in this intriguing session! “How Olive Oil Does A Heart Good…” Catherine Parrino, Crave

Let’s get healthy this year! Did you know olive oil is a key ingredient for heart health? EVOO reduces risk of heart disease, has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and can improve your overall heart health. With over 30 olive oils on tap we can make heart-healthy living fun. Come learn & taste!

It’s time to focus on you! Learn more about improving your wellness through nutrition, physical activity, stress management and health tips. 12 weeks is all you need. Start on your path to better health today. “Welcome to the World of Vinyl” Melissa Hill, Owner, Niche Creative Studio

Now is the time to learn about the latest trend in DIY – craft vinyl! Available in so many colors and designs, vinyl allows for easy personalization and creation. Workshop will cover types of vinyl, cutting machines, applications, and easy tips and tricks. Attendees will leave with a take home project of your very own! (Limited to first 100 attendees.) “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” Amy Veuleman, Holiday Travel

Starting October 1, 2021, the Walt Disney World Resort begins its 50th anniversary celebration. This celebration continues for 18 months and incorporates new nighttime spectaculars, new ride attractions, festivals, limited displays, and special dining offerings. Join Amy Veuleman, a travel agent with Holiday Travel in Lake Charles, as she takes you on a magical journey across all four theme parks for this once in a lifetime celebration. Amy and her family are attending this magical party in early October and will share their tips and experiences for a seamless celebration at the Happiest Place on Earth. “Seasons of Your Life…Past, Present and Future” Angela Jouett, ASJ Consulting

Learn how life decisions can shape our future. Spend a little time learning how to enjoy the journey of life and embracing the changes. “Women’s Self Defense” Joshua Donavan, Senior Sergeant, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office

Pearls from our 30 YEAR HISTORY

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

FALL CONFERENCE CHAIRPERSONS 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

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

marketplace application:

registration: Register in one of three easy ways:

ONLINE: Register at www.womenscommissionswla.com. Registration cost – $40. Deadline is October15 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 15, postmarked on or before. ON-SITE: On-site registration is available at the Lake Charles Civic Center Ticket Office beginning Monday, October 18th. The cost of on-site registration is $50 plus a $2 service fee for a total of $52 per person. For additional registration information, email registration@womenscommissionswla.com.

Last Name ____________________________ First Name_________________________

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

Business Name ___________________________________________________________

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: ________________________________________________________

Table Reservations and Fees - It is important that you review the Fall 2021 Conference MarketPlace Guidelines on website.

Price Per Table/ Pass

Regular Reservations – Starts August 1, 2021. Fee must be paid in full. (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelope must be postmarked by September 17, 2021.

$225.00

Late Reservation – Fees must be paid in full (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelopes postmarked September 20 October 15, 2021.

$250.00

I will provide my own table covering! ($5.00 per white table cloth if we provide)

YES

Total Payment Enclosed

Home Address ____________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________ State ________ Zip __________ Daytime Phone _____________________ Alt./Cell Phone ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________________________________

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

FEES AND DEADLINES: Credit card payments can only be accepted ONLINE or ON-SITE.

NOTE: Each vendor must furnish his or her own electrical extension cord(s) and equipment.

Online or Mail-in: $40

(Online Registration ends at 11:59 on 10/15 & Mail-in must be Postmarked on/before Fri 10/15)

mail.

On-Site: $52

Floor Preference (cannot be guaranteed): _______________________________________ Additional Comments: ________________________________________________________ _____

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 hearing

I am hearing impaired/hard of

Regular Reservation Postmark Deadline is September 17, 2021 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

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: _______

Questions: Please email marketplace@womenscommissionswla.com CANCELLATION POLICY: $25.00 non-refundable fee. Balance may be refunded if canceled by September 20, 2021. No refunds will be granted on or after September 24, 2021.

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R S

DIAMOND SPONSORS b1BANK

Empire of the Seed

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana

Imperial Health

Lotte Chemical USA Corporation Matilda Gray Stream

Phillips 66 West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital

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.