WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE
Thursday, October 19, 2023 | Lake Charles Civic Center
www.womenscommissionswla.com
I am both humbled and honored to serve as the Fall Conference Chair for the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana, Inc. Our 32nd annual Women’s Fall Conference will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023.
This year’s theme is “Southern Grit” signifying our strength and determination to achieve our goals, all the while, utilizing the grace that southern women are known to have. The entire conference will focus on a southern theme to honor the great region in which we reside.
The mission of the Women’s Commission is to “educate, empower, and expand the status
the Conference Chair
of women living in Southwest Louisiana” and the mission of the fall conference is “to serve as a resource for the personal and professional growth of women in SWLA.” The Women’s Commission has accomplished both missions year after year with 2023 being no exception.
We have several great workshops planned this year to include everything from travel to pasta and inspirational to painting a door hanger. To date, there are 20 workshops scheduled and will include presenters such as, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, Boo Kay, Amanda Yellott, Terry Ardizzone, Pamela Thibodeaux, Meagan Conner, Mary Richardson, Michael Gardner, and Mike Golson.
Our MarketPlace Committee has been working hard to secure vendors this year. To date, we have over 50 vendors registered for you to shop till you drop. MarketPlace vendors include everything from fashion, jewelry, sweets and treats to health, wealth, and fitness.
We are more than excited to have Korie Robertson as our keynote speaker this year. Mrs. Robertson has been married to her husband Willie Robertson for 31 years, whose name you will recognize from the hit television show “Duck Dynasty.” She is a New York Times best-
selling author whose writing credits include: The Duck Commander Family, How Faith, Family, and Ducks Built a Dynasty, Duck Commander Devotions for Kids , and Strong and Kind: Raising Kids of Character.
Mrs. Robertson has starred in movies such as “God’s Not Dead” and “I’m Not Ashamed” and is producer of “The Blind”, the true and untold story of the Robertson family which will premier on September 22, 2023, just prior to the Women’s Fall Conference.
Please make plans to join us on Thursday, October 19th and reward yourself with a day of rejuvenation, appreciation, inspiration and shopping.
As always, the annual Women’s Fall Conference is held on the 3rd Thursday in the month of October, Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Cynthia L. Roy
Vice President, Fall Conference Chair
PLATINUM SPONSORS
years!
Register now at www.womenscommissionswla.com A Message from
2023 Women’s Fall Conference Keynote Speaker:
Korie
Robertson
Korie Robertson is a New York Times best-selling author and star of A&E’s “Duck Dynasty.” She works in the family business Duck Commander, is co-owner in Tread Lively Productions, and is a writer and speaker passionate about motherhood, adoption, and empowering families around the world.
Korie loves doing life with her husband, Willie and their six kids and five grandbabies in their hometown of West Monroe, Louisiana.
Writing credits include: “The Duck Commander Family: How Faith, Family, and Ducks Built a Dynasty,” “Duck Commander Devotions for Kids, ”and “Strong and Kind: Raising Kids of Character.”
2023 COMMISSIONERS
Jasmine Abel
Melisa Adrian
Verda Anthony
Jody Barrilleaux
Sharon Bayard
Jeanine Blaney
Susan Blevins
Debbie Boudreaux
Roxanne Boxie
Prissy Bult
Kimmie Carriaga
Stefanie Clemons
Laurie Cormier
Linda Lebert Corbello
Patricia Chretien Daigle
Sybil Douglas
Belinda Dugas
Marilyn Dunn
Vicki Dupre
Elaine Dyer
Mia England-McKay
Paula Farquhar
Daelynn Flagg
JoAnn Frank
Zelda Fry
Cheryl Fuselier
Loretta Gallien
Cheyanna Glyenn
Kim Goad-Myers
Lisa Grayson
Donna Green
Dr. Harriet Green
Kimalee (Kim) Guidry
Rev. Mary Guidry-Ringo
Jan Guillory
Leslie Harless
Cynthia Hawkins
Cheryl Heisser
Carol Henry
Velika Hurst-Trahan
Frances Jeffords
Amanda Johnson
Debra Johnson
Krystle Johnson
Sandra Jones
Angela Jouett
Kim King
MaryAnn Kohnke-Borel
Debra Lastrapes
Sandy Laurel
Dorothy Leger
Rose Malveaux
Carol Ann Martin
Ollie Mayes
Shatonia McCarty
Anita McMorris
Roma Mitchell
Anna Murphy
Marlana O’Key
Karla O’Reilly
Angel Papadimitriou
Brittany Pete
Thail Pete
Kristina Pershing
Juanita Poland
Patricia Prudhomme
Diana Rentrop
Dinah Robinson
Stephanie Rodrigue
Cynthia L Roy
Jennifer Rulon
Princella Ryan
Bernadette Seaberry
Crystal Scott
Kathy Sonnier
Carol Spence
Bernadette Stevens
Elizabeth (Liz) Stewart
Beverly St Mary
Tammy Thibodeaux
Cynthia Tomlinson
Bettye Tousaint
Nancy Hinch Tower
Melonie Wallace
Brenda Wilkinson
Alexius Williams
WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS 2023
SESSION I
9:00 – 9:40am
CHRISTUS Ochsner
Southwestern Louisiana
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Believe in Yourself — Change Forever!”
Dr. Matias Nauts
Weight loss & Bariatric Robotics. This workshop brings a discussion about weight loss through bariatrics and robotics surgery.
West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Fit for Life: Redefining Disease Prevention”
Suzy Trahan, LDN, RDN, Director –Dynamic Fitness Centers of WCCH
Understanding the connection between movement and disease prevention and learning how to apply it to everyday life!
“A Bouquet of Inspiration”
Rev. Frances “Boo” Kay, Head of Episcopal Day School
This is your opportunity to hear KPLC TV’s Hometown Hero speak. This Global Citizen is always willing to share her words of wisdom and teach you something inspiring and new.
“Don’t Pull the Trigger Until...”
Terry Ardizzone, Moss Bluff Shooters, Retired Marine, Pastor – Crossroads Church
Hearing this retired Marine with a heart for God and service is a true treat!
Participants will get tips for safe gun handling and have many questions answered on what to do when issues arise.
Aetna Health
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“A Balanced Life in the Bayou State”
Michelle LaFitte, LPC-S Senior Clinical Strategist/Crisis Administrator How to develop and maintain a healthy work life balance. This workshop will provide a foundational understanding of the topic as well as techniques/ resources needed to achieve a balanced life.
SESSION II
10:10 – 11:00am
Lake Charles Memorial Health System
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Minute Medicine with LCMHS”
Women Physicians from Lake Charles Memorial Health System
Do you feel like you never have a minute to care for yourself? We know your time is valuable, so take this opportunity to join a variety of LCMHS female physicians to answer your health-related questions, one on one, in just one minute or less. These physicians are highly trained in caring for women and their families, so ask away!
“Write It Down, Sha!”
Pamela S. Thibodeaux, Award Winning Author
Home Health Care 2000
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Living Your Best Life! Journey to Vitality Part 2”
Stephanie Morris, Director of Public Relations
A group of dynamic presenters will offer attendees beneficial & realistic coping skills on how to get the most out of the life you are living. Join us for fun & surprises. Let us help you discover your special gifts & talents!
“Louisiana is a Trip!”
Billy Nungesser, Lt. Governor LA
If you’re looking for exciting adventures and memories that will last a lifetime, you can get the scoop from the head of tourism. “Louisiana is a place unlike any other!”
This Award-Winning Author will take you on a journey to learn the benefits of journaling your thoughts, dreams and desires. Each participant will receive a journal & pen. Limited to 50 participants.
“Putting the Brakes on Hair Loss”
Tammy Guillory, Hair Loss Solutions/ Trichcologist
With over 25 years of experience giving tips on how to prevent and/or slow down the progression of hair loss, Tammy helps teach women techniques to combat every type of hair loss.
11:15 - Luncheon with Keynote Speaker Korie Robertson in the Coliseum
SESSION III
1:30-2:20pm
years!
Thrive Magazine
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Words Women Aren’t Allowed to Say”
Darci Portie, APRN, FNPC, Owner of The Headache & Wellness Center Hormonal changes, headaches, weight issues, bladder problems, fatigue, aging & more! This workshop will shine a light on these concerns and talk about how to provide tools for you to seek the help you need to feel better!
Cox, Cox, Filo, Camel, & Wilson PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Affirmative (In) Action”
Gene Thibodeaux, Retired Judge; Derrick Kee, Retired Judge
These dynamic speakers will discuss the United States Supreme Court’s recent decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard whereby it struck down affirmative action. They will discuss the impact the ruling will have on admission programs at colleges/ universities going forward.
“Pickles Are No Longer Just a Condiment!”
Mike Golson, Trinity Center Trainer
Come get an introductory lesson on the hottest game sweeping the country! Be careful of Pickle Ball – it’s addictive!
American Press
PLATINUM SPONSOR
“Our Tracked Life – We Know Where You’ve Been”
The Advertising Department
Have you ever felt like you’re being stalked by a store/restaurant with ads on your phone/computer after leaving their shop? Come learn the tricks and how the consumer is being targeted today so you can have more control!
“Seeing Louisiana By Foot”
Janie Doucet, Moderator – hikela.org
Experienced hikers from all parts of the state will give you tips, suggestions, recommendations, and hiking trails to help you explore the beauty of our great state. Participants will leave with knowledge to “Hike Louisiana”!
SESSION IV
2:40-3:20pm
“Get Smart with Your Smart Phone”
Melonie Wallace, Computer Network Technician, Calcasieu Parish School Board
Do you struggle with how to take a screen shot, use filters for perfect pictures, view photos on your Smart TV or know what Emoji to use, or NOT use? Come learn all the tricks to keep up with your friends and family!
“Greaux a Green Thumb”
Tori Hebert, Good Earth Garden Shoppe
Learn how to plant fall annuals to beautify your outdoor haven. This session will include a demonstration with container combo mixes (thrillers, fillers and spillers) with an assortment of fall annuals for fun DIY projects.
“Pasta – It’s More Than Just Spaghetti!”
Michael Gardner, Creator/Owner, Pasta Lab Pasta Lab’s owner will share all the magic and secrets of pasta. Come learn how flour, water and egg is transformed into a delicious meal!
“Move It or Lose It”
Amanda Yellott, SEL Director, Whistle Stop
She uses movement as the vehicle for students to express emotions and interact with other students. Today, Amanda will be leading an energetic line dance with simple steps and body confident moves!
“Painted Ba-you!”
Meagan Conner, Interior Decorator & Paint Party Host
Knock-Knock…Meagan will instruct you on how to paint your own personal door hanger, so you can “Make it and Take it”! Limited to 35 participants.
Additional offerings and revisions will be available online at https:// womenscommissionswla.com/ workshop-guide/
Legac y of Leadership
32 YEAR HISTORY
1997 Sattaria Dilks
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
2023 Velika Hurst-Trahan
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
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
2023 Cynthia L. Roy
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
2022 Kelli Stawecki
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 Dr. Melva K. Williams
2023 Korie Robertson
registration:
REGISTER IN ONE OF 3 EASY WAYS:
ONLINE: Register at www.womenscommissionswla.com.
Registration cost – $40.
Deadline is Friday, October 13 , 2023 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 13, postmarked on or before.
ON-SITE: On-site registration is available at the Lake Charles Civic Center Ticket Office beginning Monday, October 16th until Thursday, October 19th (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, email registration@womenscommissionswla.com.
marketplace application:
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 Registration and Fees - It is important that you review the Fall 2023 Conference MarketPlace Guidelines on website. Price Per Table/ Pass
Regular Registration – Starts July 1, 2023. Fee must be paid in full. (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelope must be postmarked by September 16, 2023. $225.00
Late Registration – Fees must be paid in full (Space plus 2 vendor passes) Envelopes postmarked October 6, 2023. $250.00
I will provide my own table covering! ($5.00 per white table cloth if we provide)
Total Payment Enclosed
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 equipment.
Floor Preference (cannot be guaranteed): _______________________________________
Table of 8: $500
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: _______
Additional Comments: _____________________________________________ ______
Regular Registration Postmark Deadline is September 16, 2023
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
Late Registration Postmark Deadline is October 6, 2023
Questions: Please email marketplace@womenscommissionswla.com
CANCELLATION POLICY: $25.00 non-refundable fee. Balance may be refunded if canceled by September 20, 2023. No refunds will be granted on or after September 24, 2023.
Last Name ____________________________ First Name_________________________ Business Name ___________________________________________________________ Home Address ____________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________ State ________ Zip __________ Daytime Phone _____________________ Alt./Cell Phone ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________________________________ How did you hear about the conference? Commissioner Billboard Social Media Thrive TV Other
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 10/13 & Mail-in must be Postmarked on/before Fri 10/13)
FEES
On-Site: $52
NO YES
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2023 SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
DIAMOND SPONSORS
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.
Register now at www.womenscommissionswla.com
Imperial Health Volkswagen of Lake Charles
Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana Inc.
years!
