The Southern View Taylor Bobb Desiree Robinson Moresa Robinson Gabrielle Stewart

2010 ~ Lafayette Youth Shared Study Tips; Eight Years Later ~ Where are They Now?

Bishop Elect John W. Milton, J.D. ThM, of Imani Temple #49 and Wedding Focus Archbishop G. Augustus Stallings, Jr., Lauren Johnson DeRouen Patriarch and Founder of Imani Temples Christon Chaisson: The Good Samaritan “A Heroic Act” IMANI TEMPLE’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY

P.L.A.C.E.S. of the South SEPTEMBER 2018 Deputy Police Chief Reggie Thomas Adrienne Johnson Malbreaux

In Memory ~ Harold Johnson, Sr.

Herb “Pucci” Green

In Memory ~ Cpl. Michael Middlebrook Wilson J. Johnson, Sr. Courtney Helaire Deion Johnson

In Memory ~ Elvin “Ivory” Johnson In Memory ~ Alcee Johnson Fire Chief Robert Benoit 2 The Southern View September 2018

The Southern View a magazine focusing on P. L. A. C. E. S. of the South In this issue

Archbishop G. Augustus Stallings, Jr. and Bishop Elect John W. Milton 8 Christon Chaisson: A Heroic Act 18 Where Are They Now? Taylor Bobb 10 Gabrielle Stewart 11 Moresa Robinson 12 Desiree Robinson 13 Isabell Milton 14 John Paul Milton 15 David Carney, III 16 Inside TSVM: James D. Thomas 17 Eight years ago, they shared studying tips and how to study. The Impact of Black Churches & Pastors in Great-

Wedding Focus~ Lauren & Donald DeRouen 29 er Black Lafayette. Imani celebrates 25 years. The story Wedding Focus~ Emma & Charles Derousselle 31 of Christon Chaisson: The Good Samaritan “A Heroic Act”. Special Nutrient Needs of Older Adults 33 Wedding Focus, Lauren Johnson DeRouen. To Supporters of Lady Hilda L. Wiltz 49 Cover by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux Creole Sisters’ Lafayette Bus Tour 55

In every issue Photography Spotlight ~ Ernest Daniels 28 What’s Going On! 4-7 Photography Spotlight ~ Russell Malbreaux, II 30 Living with Sickle Cell 34 A Tribute to Jamie Porter James 54 It’s Just F.Y.I. 43 Michael Tatman, St. Landry Parish School Board 36 In the Spotlight 59 - 63 Shaterral Johnson, Mayor of Grand Coteau 37 Gwen Collins-Greenup, Secretary of State 38 PUBLISHER Wanda Porter Johnson, St. Martinville School Board 39 Susannah Johnson Malbreaux

Charlee Renaud Lear, Mayor of Opelousas 40 EDITOR Mimi Methvin, US 3rd Congressional District 41 Nicole Malbreaux

WRITERS Louisiana Prepared to Vote 2018 42 Susannah J. Malbreaux, Ryan E. King and Photography Spotlight ~ Elite Photography 44 Nicole Marie Malbreaux

Sensory Friendly Visits To Vermilionville 46 GRAPHICS / LAYOUT / DESIGN / Beyond A Reasonable Doubt? 53 PHOTOGRAPHY

Susannah J. Malbreaux

Artist/Musician Spotlight ~ Duane Terry 27 CONTACT TSVM 5 Tools for Saving Civility 45 337.212.1950 [email protected]

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month 47 The Southern View is published bi-monthly, and distributed for a nominal fee to local businesses & offices by The Southern View Magazine, LLC. Distribution of this Challenges in Teen Parenting 48 magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. Articles and stories may be submitted for publication, subject to acceptance and approval by The Southern View Magazine, LLC. Unsolicited material may not be Business Spotlight ~ Benoit Gallery 32 returned. Business Spotlight ~ Wynonna Richard 35 Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, we cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by authors. Save & Invest Even if Money Is Tight 50 In no event shall unsolicited material subject this publication to any claim for holding LHA – Joins Vera Institute of Justice in Initiative 57 fees or other charges. Copyright © 2018 September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 3 Publisher’s Message to Readers When I began pub- lishing The South- The Southern View ern View in 2010, I a magazine focusing on P. L. A. C. E. S. of the South included our youth in almost every is- sue. Eight years In this issue Continued ago, I asked them to share study tips and how they pre- Impact of Black Churches and Pastors pared for exams. Pastor Carl Sonnier 20 It was great to have them share their experi- Pastor Abram Freeman 21 ences. A few months ago, I was going through Pastor Brenda Hebert 22 some of the back issues, when it was in print, Bishop Larry J. Lloyd, PhD 23 and I came across the issue with the teens and Rev. Maggie C. Banks 24 began to wonder what these young folks were Pastor Charles E. Banks, Jr. 25 up to these days. Hence, I reached out to Bishop Elect John W. Wayne, J.D, ThM 26 them. Thanks to social media, I was able to Keeping in Memory: Wilson & Harold Johnson 58 locate eight of them. I asked them to share what they’ve been up to since the August 2010 issue. Check them out beginning on page 10. Several months ago, Pastor John Milton and Contributing Writers I were talking about issues facing our commu- Stephen Bartley; Kelly Garrett; Shawntell Lewis-Harrell; nity. We talked about the impact the Black Kimberly Chaisson-Hebert; Brandy Johnson Helaire; Churches and Pastors were making in the Dr. Jennifer Jackson; Nicole Marie Malbreaux; community. We wanted to reach out to them; Belinda Sylvestre; Kelley Jolivette-Thomas I said I’d like to feature them in the magazine. If you have a Calendar Event you’d like to share with We brainstormed the questions; I sent them out to the pastors. Their responses begin on the community, please email: page 20. [email protected] It’s an ELECTION YEAR. Nov. 6, 2018 is Open Primary/Congressional Election; Early Send email by October 14, 2018 voting is October 23 - 30 (except Sunday, Oct. for the November issue. 28) from 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Dec.8, 2018 is Open General/Congressional Election. Early voting is Nov. 24 through Dec. 1 (except Sun- day, Nov. 25) from 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. A heartwarming story is that of Christon Chaisson, The Good Samaritan. Kelley Jo- livette-Thomas and Kimberly Chaisson-Hebert teamed up and shared Christon’s story. August 12th was one year since his passing. The memory of Christon will be told and shared for years on end. To give of one’s self for that of another is indeed “A Heroic Act”.

Susannah Johnson Malbreaux HELLO, PLEASE EXERCISE YOUR VOTING RIGHTS! 4 The Southern View September 2018 Save the Date

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

SOLD OUT!

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 5 6 The Southern View September 2018 September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 7 One on One ~ Archbishop G. Augustus Stallings, Jr. and Bishop Elect John W. Milton, J.D., ThM ~ Imani Temples

Today is the end of a wonderful celebration that has been going on for the past week; it’s the 25th Anniversary of Imani Temple #49. And what’s so significant about having Archbishop Stallings here is because he is the founder, the brainstorm behind the Imani Temples. TSVM: Archbishop, could you just share a little bit of your insight into what led you to start the Imani Temples? STALLINGS: Thank you. Imani Temple was started on July 2, 1989 on the historic campus of the Howard University Law School. When the number of black Roman Catholics had reached the point where the cup of endurance had runneth over. It felt that many of them, including my- self, felt that the Roman Catholic Church was not responsive to the pro- found spiritual and cultural needs of us as believers. And through a long process of trying to navigate through a system that didn’t accommodate us. We decided that the best way to bring about the desired result in our expression of Catholicism, as people of color, was to take ownership over our own destiny and create our own. That’s how Imani Temple in Washington D.C, the 1st Imani Temple got started; and then four years later here were in Lafayette, LA where a similar situation had happened where the Roman Catholic Diocese had of Lafayette was going to close Holy Rosary Institute. A beacon of hope and enlightenment for so many African Americans who had become a part of the Roman Catholic Church. And when the local bishop wasn’t willing to listen to the plaintiff cries of the people who wanted to maintain Holy Rosary Institute, they gave me a call in Washington D.C. and so we need to do in Lafayette what you did four years ago in Washington D.C. and that’s the genesis or the beginning of Imani Temple #49. TSVM: That’s fascinating, a story that many people have not heard. I’ve been affiliated with Imani Temple for about the 25 years. So I was there, not right at the start, when you guys started, but maybe just a few years later. And for me attending Imani Temple gave me a lot of nourishment and information that I had not known before. I got more into understanding Catholicism, the Bible, attended bible study, and interacted with people, so it was really wonderful for me back then as it is now, but it’s changed over the years. I’ve seen several pastors come through, now we’re blessed with Pastor Milton and we’re looking to see what’s he’s going to do just to help rebuild Imani Temple. I say rebuild because when I started years ago, as I was just telling someone, it was standing room only. We’re not at standing room only, but however, we do have a lot of partners and we have a lot of people that sup- port Imani Temple. But I’m with Pastor, we’d like to see more folks from our community to attend Imani Temple because together some of the impact that you guys made in reference to Holy Rosary can still be done now and out community still needs a lot of help. MILTON: Blessing of God. Archbishop appointed me here in 2011 to become the pastor here at Imani Temple #49. I agree with you about how it is that we had standing room only, but we must first realize the growth of Imani Temple is not so much the numbers as it is in our spiritual levels. Sometimes you can have five people who are righteous and in one accord can get more done than a hundred or two hundred people. And I think that’s that pow- er of Imani Temple. Of course, we the inflection the more critical mass, the more critical mass of energy, the more we can do out in the community. The I AM Theology brought forth by the Archbishop. God is sent to us through him. It’s so powerful that once our people understand it and digest it and then we begin to apply it; we begin to actualize what we realize…that’s what’s on the table right now. That’s the point where we are right now. We know that all of the things that is hap- pening in our modern day 25 years after Imani Temple was established that many people question, “how far have we come?” We say we’ve come this far by faith, but how far have we come? We know that the time that we started, the Ku Klux Klan were riding high in Lafayette. Are they still riding high? Even more vicious than ever. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 8 The Southern View September 2018 STALLINGS AND MILTON CONTINUED practicing to be human; not human ARCHBISHOP: We are excited beings, attempting to become spir- here in Southwest Louisiana. Here at We’ve got to come to realize itual. Imagine if we could see that Imani Temple #49 we have the cen- that as a people who represent only we hold the keys to the kingdom of ter of our movement of the African a portion of humanity, we must do heaven in our own hands and that American Catholic Congregation in our part and before we can help we can open or close that door that the southern region. Imani Temple someone else, we must help our allowed others to see the kingdom #49 is not simply just one of our selves and be who we are called to or to shut it off so they could see it. temples, but it’s also a Cathedral. be. Our gifts as human beings are And also with those keys we can al- And, every cathedral needs a presid- needed by everyone else as well as so open up those doorways to eco- ing bishop. And I can think of no bet- we need the rest of humanity’s gift nomic opportunities, political activ- ter person who could fulfill that of- so we can have that perfect kingdom ism, to an educational system that fice than the current pastor of Imani of God that we all look forward too. not only speaks to the needs of our Temple #49, the then, Father John Our community involvement is people but also educates others who W, Milton who is now Bishop-elect one of the hallmarks of Imani Tem- must interact and interface with us John Wayne Milton. He will be ele- ple. We’ve come to realize that as a as people of color. So, Imagine, I vated, ordained to the office of Bish- universal church it’s not about only thought of that title “Imagine”; I op; the 5th presiding Bishop of the those in the walls, but everybody in thought of John Legend. If we could Lafayette providence of the African and outside the walls. We are be- imagine a world where not only we American Catholic Congregation on cause, I AM because we are; we are love God, but that love of God is Saturday, October 27, 2018, 10:00 because I AM and employ the Nguzo manifested in the way we love each a.m. at Imani Temple #49, 201 E. Saba principle and knowing that, I other. In the words of Satchmo, Willow, Lafayette, LA. The entire can’t just think of myself in a selfish “What a wonderful world this would community is invited to come and way. We have to think about the be”. And we hold it within our share our joy. environment as well. So we have to hands. We have the power to either MILTON: I’m very excited. I just give of ourselves; the receiving create heaven or hell for that mat- have to trust my Archbishop; if that’s comes from our giving. We’re going ter. That we could imagine people what God has instructed him to do, I to continue to give to this communi- like us taking ownership of their own have to trust. And I believe that ty. And we know we’re going to destiny. Imagine people like us who God will see us through. Whatever continue to be blessed, we’ve been are not afraid to speak truth to pow- the new challenges that will come called too. er; imagine people who are willing to with the new office I fear none. I Understand the issues of our so- fight for the cause of justice; imagine know that we have a great work. ciety deal with, the new challenges people who are willing to march God has already ordained it. More the church must confront. even through hell for a heavenly importantly I must confess that I ARCHBISHOP: When I thought cause; that we could change this have surrounded myself with a great about the message to deliver to the world in a season. Just imagine if we group of lay people and ordained faith community of Imani Temple as Christians could become like the clericals who understand the mission th #49 on the occasion of its 25 Anni- early Christian community was, and vision AACC; they understand versary founding as well as thinking when no one owned anything but issues of our society that we must of a larger message that goes far be- everyone went to the Apostles and CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 yond the brick and mortar of Imani shared. It’s not a Temple # 49 but to all our Imani dream; if we could Temples around the country and as imagine, we could well the Lafayette community and make it happen. the Louisiana community. I thought I am at the point of the title “Imagine” because even of having published though I did not mention in the ser- my latest opus, my mon today but I’d been talking about latest work, entitled for the past 3 or 4 days that in the “Man in the Mirror: word imagine is image. And imagine The Theology of all of us imaging the divine likeness of Michael Jackson”. God. Imagine what this world would Wait till you read be if each one of us could under- this upcoming book. stand that we are spiritual beings September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 9 Where Are They Now!

Taylor Bobb

My name is Taylor Bobb. I’m 24 and have relocated to the Dallas-Fort Worth Area in 2016. Also, in 2016 I graduated from Dillard University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Health minored in Biology. I am currently a Revenue Operations Specialist for Caris Life Sciences, which is a biotechnology company in which has a focus on molecular profiling and precision medicine for Oncology patients. I am also a small business owner. I own Southern Hair Society, in which I sell hair extensions. Our motto is “Bring out the in- ner girl boss in you.” With this company, I hope to encourage young women of all walks of life to not only look their best, but do their best. In my free time I enjoy creat- ing YouTube videos on my YouTube Chan- nel, Taylor Bobb which focuses on beauty, fitness, and product reviews.

10 The Southern View September 2018 Where Are They Now!

Gabrielle Stewart

Gabrielle Stewart is a senior at the University of Loui- siana at Lafayette. She is currently majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Applied Forensics. She will be graduating in the Spring of 2019. While finishing up her last year at UL, she is currently interning with the Sher- iff's Office, where she is allowed to participate in various activities. After graduation, she plans to work for the Sheriff's Department, then moving on to working for the FBI. In 2014, before she started college, Gabrielle was Queen Susanne Simone’ LVI with the Lafayette Mardi Gras Festival Association and made her Debut with Les Femme de Mode. In 2011, Gabrielle attended Stanford Law School for a Summer Law program.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 11 Where Are They Now!

Moresa Robinson

 Graduated from Lafayette High School in 2016; currently enrolled as a junior at Loyola University New Orleans with a Psychology major and Music minor.  Employed at Max Well, New Orleans- a plant based diet restaurant and a work-study student at Whelan Daycare Center.  I'm a student leader of Loyola's Chi Alpha Chris- tian Fellowship as well as the president of Loyola's Genesis Gospel Choir.

12 The Southern View September 2018 Where Are They Now!

Desiree Robinson

 Schools / Universities you attended, still enrolled and/or graduated: Graduated from Loyola University New Orleans in May 2018  Career / Place of Employment: Compos- er, songwriter, and blogger  Anything else of significant interest: To keep up with what Desiree is doing now, find out more at her website https:// www.desireerobinsonmusic.com and/or her Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/ DesireeRobinsonComposer/

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 13 Where Are They Now!

Isabell Milton

I just graduated in May from Rice University in Houston, TX with a B.A. in Chemical Engineering and a Cer- tificate in Civic Leadership. While at Rice, I served in the uni- versity chapter of the National Socie- ty of Black Engineers. I am starting my career in the Energy Industry, and I look forward to becoming an Energy Scholar.

14 The Southern View September 2018 Where Are They Now!

John Paul Milton

Working for the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, blending a passion for public service and engineering. Studied Energy Engineering at Pennsylvania State University, Class of 2015.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 15 Where Are They Now!

David Carney, III

School/major: University of New Orleans ~ Accounting ma- jor Career: Funeral Director at Majestic Mortuary in New Orle- ans Significant Interest: David was the youngest person in Loui- siana to receive a funeral direc- tor's license. What an accomplishment!

16 The Southern View September 2018 Where Are They Now!

James D. Thomas

James D. Thomas is currently the Scheduling Specialist/Sub Manager in Transportation for the Lafayette Parish School Sys- tem. James has been a member of the Lafayette Democratic Par- ish Executive Committee since 2012 serving District 4. He is currently serving his 2nd term as Chairman. James enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and enjoy- ing life!

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 17 By: Kelley Jolivette-Thomas & Kimberly Chaisson-Hebert A Heroic Act An Ordinary Guy Christon Chaisson was born to Curtis and Steph- anie Chaisson and was raised in Broussard, LA. His father passed away in February 1999, leaving his mother as sole provider for her four young chil- dren. During this time, Christon and his older brother Curtland, worked community jobs like mowing lawns to help his mother and sisters, Kim- berly and Shanena maintain the home. While in high school, Christon was involved in many sports programs including football, wrestling, and track. He also worked part time at a Popeye’s restaurant. After graduating from Ovey Comeaux High School, he went on to attend the University of Loui- siana at Lafayette (ULL), majoring in Business Man- agement. While in college, he became a member of the largest co-ed professional business fraternity in the nation, Delta Sigma Pi. The fraternity focused on scholastic, professional development and ser- vice projects in the community and on campus. Christon was an enthusiastic and involved member of the business fraternity serving such roles as Vice President, Financial Officer, Recruiting Director, Scholarship & Awards Director, and finally Presi- dent of the ULL chapter. Among his service projects while in the fraternity were Adopt a Road, events for Faith House Charity, and several blood drives. Christon Chaisson Throughout college, Christon continued to contrib- ute financially to his family household; working at All comic book superheroes have a story. Texas Road House, Pack & Paddle, and Walgreens. There is something in their backstories that As he progressed in his college career, he applied lead them to their actions. Something makes for and was accepted as a business intern at them stand out from others as they maintain a Walgreens, and after graduating, became Assistant certain identity to stay under the radar and live Manager. He also worked at Baker Hughes, Weath- ‘ordinary lives.’ In the non-fiction world, he- erford, and at the time roes lack superhuman characteristics. They of his death, Hogan’s don’t turn green. They can’t fly. They don’t Architectural Wood shoot webs from their wrists. Their heroism is Products, where he was acknowledged by a single action; an action of the Logistics & Retail doing the right thing at the right time. Step- Sales Manager. ping up for someone in need. His then girl- Christon Chaisson died in the early morning friend, Kelly, was a fast hours of August 12, 2017 – a hero. This Good friend to Christon’s late Samaritan was walking to his car near the Rosa mother Stephanie Parks Transportation Center in Lafayette, LA Chaisson. They grew and, according to reports, witnessed a woman close and when Stepha- being assaulted by her male companion. nie was diagnosed with Christon was moved to act against something stomach cancer, she was there to help care for her. that was horribly wrong. He assisted the wom- His mother’s cancer was brutally invasive and an in distress and as a result he was shot and emotionally draining for the entire family. died enroute to the hospital. CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 18 The Southern View September 2018 A HEROIC ACT CONTINUED The cancer progressed to a point where chemotherapy was no longer an option. Christon and his siblings took their mother home and cared for her to the end of her life. Christon was a pillar of strength for his two younger sisters always encourag- ing them to be strong and believe in themselves. Two years later, in the sum- mer of 2014, Christon married his longtime girlfriend, Kelly, and moved into his mother’s home. They later welcomed son, Caleb. Christon. Christon was a dedicated father and a loving husband. He enjoyed fishing and building with his son. A Legacy Christon’s family and friends believe that Jesus Christ was in his heart when he went to the aid of a battered woman in need. How much more Christ- like could you be than to lay down your life for another? In a world of fear, the concept “what if” limits us, but we need to do the right thing at the right time. Have you ever found a penny when you were worried or saw an encouraging message right when you desperately needed it? God sends his angels to whisper to us. On August 12, 2017, we believe that Christon heard that whisper and answered without hesitation. We envision Christon arriving in His glory, welcomed by his parents. Through this journey, a network called Christon Strong has been created to carry on his legacy. It started with a few of Christon’s cousins and now has over 1,000 Facebook followers. Christon’s love for a stranger – love enough to die for – provided the platform and defined a mission. His legacy will serve as a constant reminder not only in Lafayette or Louisiana, but the entire nation. The mission of Christon Strong is to keep Christon’s act of heroism and his legacy as a Good Samaritan in the hearts and minds of others. Every time you see his picture or see a post, let this serve as a ‘whisper’ to love one another. It started with Christon; let’s con- tinue it.

Painting With A Purpose: a Night Honoring Christon Chaisson August 10, 2018 ~ almost a year since we lost Christon with his actions to protect a victim of domestic violence. Family and friends united to celebrate the life of our hero. It was a night to reflect on the life of Christon. The painting was relaxing as we were creative in our painting of the symbol reflecting his strength and honor. END

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 19 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette

Pastor Carl J. Sonnier St. Peter Baptist Church

1. Is there a concept of the “Black Church” in greater Lafayette? Yes, we feel there is a con- cept of the “Black Church” in greater Lafayette. 2. Do you have an opinion on the works of Rev. Dr. James H. Cone and his development of the theory of Black Liberation Theology? We Do not have an opinion of Rev. Dr. James H. Cone. 3. Are you a member of the Senior Pastoral Alli- ance of Southwest La.? Pastor Carl J. Sonnier – St. Peter BC is a member of the SW Alliance. 4. What impact has the Senior Pastoral Alliance had in the community and in general, the Black Community? The impact of the Senior Alliance is great. Stop The Violence Marches have been held, The Spoken Word is taught throughout area, Neighborhood clean-ups have been held. 5. What are the strong points of your ministry? Strong points of St. Peter BC Min- istry is: We are bible fed, and spiritually led to administer the word to our con- gregation and visitors. We give the people in our area a chance to do communi- ty service, and hire the professionals to complete repairs, and beautify in and out side of our campus/sanctuary. 6. Are you engaged in any ecumenical initiatives? If yes, what are they? St. Peter BC is not engaged in any ecumenical initiatives. 7. What are the greatest needs of the community? Are you and your congregation meeting those needs? Greatest needs are: receiving the spoken word, being saved, shelter, food, financial assistance. St. Peter BC are trying to meet as many needs as possible, when we cannot meet an individual’s need we refer them to someone that can.

St. Peter Baptist Church 503 N. Washington St. Lafayette, LA 70501. Sunday Services 8:00am - Third Sunday Communion Wednesdays - Prayer Service 5:00pm - Bible Study 6:00pm

20 The Southern View September 2018 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette

Pastor Abram Freeman Acts of Love Inc. Nonprofit 1. Is there a concept of the “Black Church” in greater Lafayette? This area is some- what unique in that in my opinion there is no black church but churches that are predomi- nantly black and culture, worship and nature. 2. Do you have an opinion on the works of Rev. Dr. James H. Cone and his develop- ment of the theory of Black Liberation Theology? As far as Dr. Cone is concerned I understand what he saying but is difficult for me to go in that direction because of the fact that the Bible says that God is not partial to any person or persons especially when dealing with one for color or race. 3. Are you a member of the Senior Pastoral Alliance of Southwest La.? Yes 4. What impact has the Senior Pastoral Alliance had in the community and in gen- eral, the Black Community? In my opinion we have not been able to really have a mini- mum impact on the community because of the busy schedules of so many pastors, a clear and concise understanding of our objectives as pastors and having so many really strong, intuitive and charismatic leaders sometimes make it difficult for us to really get our feet .on the ground going in a direction that we all really want to go. 5. What are the strong points of your ministry? My ministry is very concise and truly concentrated on family of incarcerated parents relatives and grandparents. Our focus is on stop in the underground railroad from school, to juvenile delinquency and eventually to the prison system. I believe that it is still a form of slavery and I would like to put into it in Jesus name. 6. Are you engaged in any ecumenical initiatives? If yes, what are they? No 7. What are the greatest needs of the community? I really think our greatest need is to be involved in the education Of our children. Education answers so many problems including but not limited to access to healthcare, capital and Decreases our chances of incarceration and intimidation. Are you and your congregation meeting those needs? We are truly doing our best. We are making sure that every member of our church gets at least in high school diploma and or some kind of trade so that they are not a liability but Asset to the church and the community. Acts of Love Inc. Nonprofit 4103 Cameron St. Lafayette, LA 70506 Sunday Services 8AM - Third Sunday Communion Wednesdays - Prayer Service 5PM - Bible Study 6PM.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 21 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette

Pastor Brenda Hebert Rivers of New Life International Ministry 1. What Are The Strong Points Of Your Ministry? Our Mis- sion at Rivers of New Life International Ministry is Connecting People to Purpose. We believe that once people identify and know their po- sition in Christ according to Eph 2:6, they will be led by the Spirit of God into safety, provision, health and in every aspect of their divine purpose. Church is never supposed to be something we just attend; church is supposed to be who we are. Another strong point is Pray- er. We believe in the Power of Prayer. We understand that in order to see an authentic Move of God in the earth and a great reformation prophesied by the prophets of old, then it is imperative that we take heed to the Word of God that says men ought to always pray, and not faint. Prayer at RONL Ministry is not an event, it is a culture. As Pastor my passion is prayer. Prayer is the engine that gets everything else started. Our last strongest point in our ministry is empowering and equipping our leaders for the work of the ministry according to Eph 4:12. We believe in the Holy Fire of God and releasing the full force of the Kingdom of God over a hurting generation. We are determined to dig deeper, crack the dry ground and bring forth the River of Refresh- ing for the healing of the nation. 2. Are You Engaged In Any Ecumenical Initiatives; If Yes, What Are They? At RONL Ministry we strive to promote an atmosphere of Ecumenical Harmony for the betterment of our Christian faith and our commu- nities. I am a Board Member of the Senior Pastoral Alliance and we gather together several months of the year in the Spirit of Unity to fellowship with Pastors throughout the City to join forces and engage in a pro- cess of helping to serve and meet the needs of our community. Our ministry consistently partner with other five-fold ministers in the City, State and outside of the State of Louisiana. We are involved in evan- gelism, outreach, and other activities outside of the Church Walls. We also partner with several ministers in South Africa in Revival settings. Our ultimate goal is that our Ecumenical Harmony initiative will help people take the next step toward Christ and together create a multiplying redemptive (redeemed) commu- nity of diverse Christ followers in the City of Lafayette and surrounding areas. We believe that spiritual growth is to understand and reflect the heart of Christ. 3. What Are The Greatest Needs Of The Community? What Are Some Of The Things You And Your Congregation Are Doing To Meet Those Needs? There are some people in the community who are struggling with life and need to be discipled. We are here to disciple them, and to be a living proof of a lov- ing God to a hurting world. Our men ministry (Man Up) meets every Monday night to disciple men feed them and be their support in the community. They also minister at the jail bi-weekly; some of those guys come from our community. We pass out fliers in the community letting people know who we are and that we are there to serve them. This year we have opened our Church doors to UL Gospel Choir who will be having choir rehearsal in our building. We look forward to building relationship with the University in our community. Every year on MLK day we give out free clothes, free food and counsel those who desire our counsel. We are open to the community and public on Tuesday and Thursday for noon prayer. We never want to miss an opportunity to share the saving message of Jesus Christ.

Rivers of New Life International Ministry ~ 600 General Mouton; Lafayette, LA 70501 Worship Service: Sundays ~ 10:00 a. m. Bible Study: Wednesdays ~ 7:00 p. m.

22 The Southern View September 2018 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette

Bishop Larry J. Lloyd, Ph.D Spirit of Liberty Christian Fellowship 1. What are the strong points of your ministry?  The strong points of our ministry are: Biblical Teach- ing, training, and equipping leaders for a career in ministry through our Prophetic School for Life and Min- istry. Male and female candidates who complete two years of training through the Prophetic School can qualify to become a licensed minister.  Strength in our ministry is the commitment to the heal- ing of families, with a special emphasis on empower- ing blended families.  Spiritual counseling and mentoring is encouraged through Dr. Lloyd's "Fifteen Minutes with the Bishop." Other ministers on our staff are li- censed and trained counselors.  Dr. Lloyd and Spirit of Liberty lead annual Biblical and educational Tours to the Holy Land, including Israel, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Turkey.  As a missionary and mentor, Dr. Lloyd and Spirit of Liberty Christian Fellowship have adopted schools in West Africa, and South Africa. Dr. Lloyd sponsors annual missions’ trips to South Africa, including Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg.  Another strength of our Outreach Ministry through: (1) "The Wonderful Word of God" Ra- dio Broadcast on KIEE 88.3 FM, Monday - Friday at 7:35am. (2) "Spiritual Soul Food" a two minute radio devotional on Z105.9 KFXZ - FM.  Finally, strength of our ministry is prayer. Two prayer meetings are held weekly on Tues- day evenings and Saturday mornings. Our congregation is encouraged to follow the guid- ance given in Dr. Lloyd's book, "The Right Way to Pray: A Guide to a Successful Prayer Life."

2. Are you engaged in any ecumenical initiatives? If yes, what are they? Yes  We are engaged in ecumenical initiatives through the Southwest Senior Pastors Alliance of Lafayette. Additionally, Spirit of Liberty is a member of (M.I.C.A.) Monument Interna- tional Church Assemblies with Headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Lloyd is the Nation- al Director of Education and soon to be officially elevated to the Bishop of the Southern Region of M.I.C.A. This is an ecumenical organization made up of churches nationally and internationally.

Spirit of Liberty Christian Fellowship 2841 Louisiana Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501 Sunday Morning 9:30am Service Live Sunday Webcast, every Sunday @ 9:30 a.m. Tuesday Night Intercessory Prayer 6:00pm Thursday Family Bible Study 6:30 pm Saturday Morning Corporate Prayer 7:00am – 8:00am Sunday Morning “One Hour of Power” Service 9:00am – 10am Contact Us at 337-234-3026

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 23 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette Rev. Maggie C. Banks, Pastor Trinity C.M.E. Church

What Are The Strong Points Of Your Ministry?

1. To make Jesus Christ known to those who do not know him. To help the marginal and those in need. 2. Hosting a Senior Citizen Ministry twice weekly; open to all denominations. Partnering with The Downtown Faith Alliance to address and help to minister to the needs of the Community. 3. Working to meet the needs of the homeless, showing compassion to nursing home residents, and sharing the good news of the Gospel. Street ministry every third Saturday: Sharing The gospel of Jesus Christ to the homeless, giving of toiletries, blankets and clothing. Serving joy meals quarterly at church to the homeless. Giving needy items to the residents of Acadiana Cares. Visiting River Oaks and Courtyard Manor Nursing Homes with monthly sharing in ministry with choir singing, meditations and fellow- ship.

Trinity C.M.E. Church 604 Lee Ave, Lafayette, LA Church Services ~ Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Bible Study ~ Wednesday’s 6:30 p.m.

24 The Southern View September 2018 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette

Pastor Charles E. Banks, Sr. Fellowship Full Gospel Ministries

What Are The Strong Points Of Your Ministry? We are a church that loves people and want to see people’s lives change through the word of God. We're here in Washington Height Community making a difference; we had a community Clean up; Back to School Rally, about 250 students were in attendance. We walk the commu- nity and let the people know we're here; if we can be of any help, please contact us. 1. Councilman Pat Lewis is working with us to paint some homes. So this is the direction we're headed. 2. Are you a member of the Senior Pastoral Alli- ance of Southwest La.? Yes 3. Are you engaged in any ecumenical initiatives? If yes, what are they? No

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 25 Impact of Black Churches and Pastors in Greater Black Lafayette Bishop Elect John W. Milton, J.D., ThM Imani Temple #49 1. What are the strong points of your ministry? Imani Tem- ple #49 of the African American Catholic Congregation is an independent, autonomous, African centered Catholic expression of the Christian faith. We believe that a people who do not take control of their destiny, moved by the ge- nius of their culture, can never achieve full spiritual, eco- nomic, social, cultural and psychological maturity. There- fore, the African-American Catholic Congregation and its parishioners are committed to the movement and strug- gles of our days, in hopes of preserving tomorrow. Our ability to bring liturgy to life is the strongest component of our ministry. We remind our people that there is no divi- sion between the sacred and the secular. And that we must live our lives holistically. All are encouraged to know thyself, discover one's purpose, and be prophetic in their walk and to know what actions are required to fulfill God's command to be holy as God is holy. 2. Are you engaged in any ecumenical initiatives? If yes, what are they? I am a member of the Senior Pastoral Alliance of Greater Southwest Louisiana, and a member of Move Ministries. 3. What are the greatest needs of the community? What are some of the things you and your congregation are doing to meet those needs? The greatest need of the community is to de- fine what is community? In the Greater Lafayette community, there are communities within community. There are distinctive spiritualties within the community which is often over- looked and marginalized. When a people are void of their history, traditions, heritage, and cul- tural essence, it is difficult to identify the characteristics of their own spiritualties. This leads to dis-functionality, disunity, and discombobulation among segments of the community. Imani Temple's emphasis on praising and worshiping God and living in community from an African world view or black perspective is our greatest contribution to the community. Therefore, our community outreach efforts lead the community in a cry for justice of every kind; cultural justice, economic justice, social justice, educational justice, and policing and criminal justice re- form. We have created an alternative worship experience for those who love the Catholic faith but believe that clergy can marry, women can be priest, divorce persons can receive the Eucharist., one may follow his/her conscience, and reject traditional notions of supremacy, rac- ism, sexism and other unjust ways of being.

Church Services ~ Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Bible Study ~ Wednesday’s 6:30 p.m. Youth Religious Education ~ 1st & 3rd Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Community Concerns ~ 1st Monday of the Month 6:00 p.m. Health Ministry ~ 2nd & 4th Thursday of the Month 6:00 p.m.

26 The Southern View September 2018 Artist/Musician Spotlight Duane Terry Who is Erric Duane Terry? Duane is a gospel recording artist who relocated to Lake Charles, LA during his high school years by way of Liberal, Kansas. He is a graduate of LaGrange High School and attended McNeese State University. Duane also attended the University of South- west Louisiana in Lafayette where he presently resides. What led Duane to singing? He couldn’t help but sing. He grew up in the church surrounded by music. His moth- er is the legendary gospel recording artist, Evangelist Ru- by Terry. He also has multiple family members who are familiar in the gospel industry. Through the work of God, his vision of ministering through song has truly come to manifestation. Duane’s personality, love, and passion for music has afforded him many opportunities to perform on the same stage with various artists known in the gospel industry such as: Tye Tribbett, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Kurt Carr, Marvin Sapp, Bryan Popin, James Fortune, Ernest Pugh, Dr. Judith McAllister, Karen Clark-Sheard, Bishop Rance Allen, VaShawn Mitchell, Micah Stampley, Kierra Sheard, and the late great Timothy Wright, just to name a few. He has been in the company of well known radio personalities and has had numerous opportunities to appear on various social venues around the country. As the Praise and Worship leader at Spirit of Faith Church here in Lafayette, LA., where the Pastors are Tracie and Derrick Millard, a song writer/composer, producer, music director and music clinician, Duane strongly believes that the life style he lives should be one that is a representation of what is sung. His favorite scripture is Ephesians 2:8-10 which states, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” It is this scripture that he meditates on daily and has used as a constant reminder to motivate and encourage himself to not give up on the vision and dream that God has for his life. Duane’s sparkling personality and love for all people is easily recognized in his conversation. It is truly his prayer and desire that all people will be blessed by his music; he wants the lyrics to serve as a constant reminder to those who may have given up on their dreams to never stop dreaming big, no more doubting yourselves, “It’s time to ‘MOVE FORWARD’ with the dreams and visions that God has given to you.” When asked to sing his favorite part of his new highly anticipated single, “MOVE FORWARD”, he quickly belted out, “No more stepping back/Oh I’m on my way to what you have/ I’m going for greater, the future is waiting/I’m moving forward”! In closing, I am reminded of one of Duane’s favorite quotes that stuck out. He said to me, “Remember, let today be the day you give up who you’ve been for who you can become – (Hal Elrod)… MOVE FORWARD!!!!!! He wants to give a special thanks to all who have and continue to support his musical endeavors. Look out for more things to come from his Fresh Moves Music Group. For booking information or to contact Duane please call: (337) 504-1351 and/or email him at: [email protected] and/or [email protected] and don’t forget to follow and like him on the follow- ing social media pages: FaceBook @ Duane Terry and Duane Terry and Fresh Moves Min- istries, InstaGram @ DuaneTerry23 and Freshmovesmusic.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 27

28 The The Southern View Photography Spotlight

September 2018 September Queenstown, New Zealand

Ernest Daniels ~ Lafayette, LA Wedding Focus

Lauren A. Johnson & Donald DeRouen December 30, 2017 ~ Opelousas, LA

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 29

30

The The Southern View Photography Spotlight Austin, TexasAustin,

September 2018 September

[email protected] ~ 512 https://saformephotography.wixsite.com/saforme - 797 - 4226~ Austin, TX

Photography by Russell J. Malbreaux, II

Wedding Focus

Celebrating 45 years!

Emma Davis and Charles Derousselle October 21, 1972 ~ St. Edward Catholic Church, New Iberia, LA

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 31 Business Spotlight Welcome To Benoit Gallery - Indigenous Art and Enchantments

Benoit Gallery is a unique art gallery where you can go to find one-of-a-kind treasures and collectibles, hand-crafted by talented artists. The gallery features the artwork of world-renowned artist, Bryant Benoit. Bryant's mixed media collage technique is captivating and unmistakably distinctive.

Bryant's work has been featured in regional galleries & favored by art collectors around the world. Bryant's work is owned by clients and collectors in the USA (LA, TX, ND, MS, GA, FL, CA, VA, NY, OK, PA, IN & SC), Paris France, New Zealand & Ghana, West Africa. He has been featured in several magazines, newspapers & local news television programs.

When Bryant isn't in the gallery, you can find him at art markets “Dance All Nite” and festivals around the USA. Bryant has participated in Jazz Fest (New Orleans, LA), the New Orleans Art Market in Palmer Park, Bayou Boogaloo Cajun Food Festival (Norfolk, VA), Piedmont Park Arts Festival (Atlanta, GA), just to name a few.

To learn about upcoming shows and events, visit: www.benoitgallery.com; Follow us on Facebook!

“A Sunday Conversation”

Bryant and Joey Benoit Benoit Gallery Indigenous Art 535 ½ Jefferson St. Lafayette, LA 70501 (337) 412-6339 “Why I Sing The Blues” [email protected]

32 The Southern View September 2018 Special Nutrient Needs of Older Adults

Eating right and staying fit are important no matter what your age. As we get older our bodies have different needs, so certain nutrients be- come especially important for good health.

Calcium and Vitamin D Older adults need more calcium and vitamin D to help maintain bone health. Have three servings of calcium -rich foods and beverages each day. This includes fortified cereals and fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, and canned fish with soft bones, milk By Dr. Jennifer Jackson, RD, LDN and fortified plant beverages. If you take a calcium supplement or multivitamin, choose one that contains vitamin D. Vitamin B12 Fiber Many people older than Eat more fiber-rich foods to stay reg- 50 do not get enough vita- ular. Fiber also can help lower your risk min B12. Fortified cereal, for heart disease and prevent Type 2 lean meat and some fish and diabetes. Eat whole-grain breads and seafood are sources of vita- cereals, and more beans and peas — min B12. Ask your doctor or along with fruits and vegetables which a registered dietitian nutri- also provide fiber. tionist if you need a vitamin B12 supplement.

Potassium Increasing potassium along with reducing sodi- um (salt) may lower your risk of high blood pres- sure. Fruits, vegetables and beans are good sources of potassium. Al- so, select and prepare foods with little or no add- ed salt. Add flavor to food with herbs and spices.

Know Your Fats Foods that are low in saturated fats and trans fat help reduce your risk of heart dis- ease. Most of the fats you eat should be polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are primary found in nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil and fish. END

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 33 Living with Sickle Cell

My name is Belinda. I am from was now 13 years old. I survived! I Orange, Texas but I live in Balti- did, however have to get my more, Maryland. I am a single moth- gallbladder removed at this age. I er and a registered nurse. Being a was at the time one of the youngest single mother and maintaining a full to have this surgery done. I was told time job as a nurse is a job in itself. I I was lucky because I was in the op- conquer this feat daily, all while living erating room right next to where with the daily pain of sickle cell ane- President Reagan was having surgery. mia. Some days I feel as if I should be I didn’t feel lucky; I thought this sur- the patient as opposed to the nurse. gery will be the way I would die, af- I was diagnosed with sickle cell at ter all I was 13. I also didn’t like that By Belinda Sylvestre the age of seven. I was a young child my classmates now knew I had an on to today. I signed up for a voca- screaming in pain when my mother illness. They sent a big card to the tional program associated with my took me to the hospital and given hospital. I was embarrassed when I school. I would get up two hours this diagnosis, which she knew very went back to school. I was now early and go to a vocational school little about. My uncle, her brother, known as the sickly girl. This and the every day before going to my regular also lived with this disease but still fact that my uncle, who also had this high school. I got a summer job and the family knew little about it. disease passed away at the age of 36. paid for a Saturday SAT class. I grad- As a child, once diagnosed, I This caused me to go into depres- uated high school at the top of my spent many days of my childhood in sion. One hospitalization, I told my class and was accepted to every col- the hospital. My cousin Paul, who mother I give up, I’m tired of being lege I applied to. I surpassed the age was a year younger than I was, was sick, I can't do this anymore. She of 18, graduated school and was cur- also diagnosed with this debilitating then taught me my favorite scrip- rently in college. I CAN do all things disease. He and I would take turns ture, Philippians 4:13. I can do all through Christ who strengthens me! being hospitalized. So much so that things through Christ who strength- College was a struggle. I would the hospital would save adjoining ens me. get sick and miss days. I got scolded rooms for us and even allowed us to Moving to Maryland was a bless- for going to nursing clinicals while I hang our drawings on the walls. ing in disguise. I had fewer hospitali- was sick and I’d get scolded for being Growing up, I spent many birthdays zations and was now given a new life sick, staying home and not going. I hospitalized. I missed many holidays expectancy, 18. Lovely! Also with had professors and the dean tell me and important events. I was left out that I was told I’d never graduate that nursing would be too much for of different things and events that my high school, college wouldn't be in someone with my illness. I even had brothers and peers were taking part the cards for me, and I’d never have one to tell me that I should just stay in. At the age of 10, I overheard my children because I was “sick too home and get disability. What should pediatrician telling my mother that I much”. When I turned 16, my moth- have taken four years took me six would not live past the age of 13. er made me go to a sickle cell sup- years, consultations from my lawyer, This is something I kept to myself for port group, ironically at the same many meetings with the dean, the many years. university I later became a nurse at. I college vice president, and even the My mother remarried and moved am not your typical thinker so in- college president, but my determina- the family up north to Maryland. I stead of being helped by the counsel- tion and my Angel would not allow ing, I looked around at everyone me to quit. I became a baccalaureate there and asked the group who was prepared registered nurse May 23, the oldest there. The oldest person 2010! was 47. Great, I’ll be dead by 47. CONTINUED ON PAGE 35 Counseling depressed me so I stopped going after two times. I then began to remember my favorite scripture. I started to rely on my faith in God. This stirred up a determination in me that I still hold

34 The Southern View September 2018 Wynonna Richard was born in Crowley, LA and is presently a resident of Lafayette, LA. She is the mother of two children; Business Spotlight Isis, college student at the University of Toledo and Solomon a senior at Carencro High School. Wynonna graduated high school with the Service to Mankind Award from Carencro High School in Lafayette then enlisted in the U.S. Army for three years. Following her time in the service, she attended and graduated from Remington College with a 4.0 GPA in Computer Networking Technol- ogy in 2005 and again in 2007 with a 3.9 GPA in Business Information Sys- tems. Wynonna then served on the Advisory Board for Remington College after graduation. Wynonna has been employed in Louisiana by Halliburton, the American Heart Association, MidSouth Bank and Lafayette Parish School Board. After working in an office for over 20 years, she decided to start working from home after realizing there was a market for work from home jobs. With a daughter in college and a son in high school, working from home was the best solution to her busy schedule; to be available for her family. Wynonna Richard Wynonna created W.C. Richard, LLC, a virtual call center, to help those like herself that want employment but have the freedom to work from home and set their own schedule. Through the Arise platform, working full or part time for a variety of different clients is a possibility. All that is needed is a personal computer, hard-wired Internet, and a home phone to get started. Visit: WCRichardllc.com or Ariseworkfromhome.com to be come an agent.

LIVING WITH SICKLE CELL CONTINUED At the age of 24, I had my daughter. Throughout my pregnancy I was told that she would be sick. I was told that she would have downs syn- drome and was asked if I wanted to terminate my pregnancy. Of course I did not. I had no real issues in pregnancy. I developed a blood clot in my 7th month and had to be on blood thinner injections, was told that I would have a dry and painful birth but I gave birth to a healthy baby girl and because of the aforementioned, her father and I named her Angel. My mom, the mother of four, was sympathetic when she asked how I was so quiet during labor and I told her I deal with worse pain than childbirth quite regularly. When Angel was six months old, I took her to Texas to meet my family. She started crawling while playing with my cousin Paul. I was able to grab my camera in time and record her first crawl with my cousin. We stayed two weeks in Texas. A week after I returned to Baltimore, Paul passed away from sickle cell complications at the age of 23. My closest cousin and the only other person who understood my pain was gone. This took a lot out of me but I knew I now had Angel and she was my reason to keep moving forward. Paul's death instilled in me how short life is and I began to do more fun activities and not just work and study, as I was known to do. This year, I was able to purchase a home. I have no more student loans, no more car payments, just a mort- gage. Sometimes I look back and am amazed at what this “sickly” little girl has accomplished. Day to day living is still a struggle. There’s daily pain, especially when working 12 hour shifts. The simplest thing can cause pain. I get pain from showering. I get pain if I am sleep and my arm or leg comes from under the covers and is exposed to the air in the room. I get pain if the weather is too warm, or too cold, or too rainy. If I don’t get enough sleep, which I never do, there’s pain. If I turn my body too fast or the wrong way and I have pain. Sometimes the pain is just an annoying ache, other times it’s as if I’m being repeatedly stabbed. The worse is when it’s in my chest or back ren- dering me unable to walk or even breathe. As a nurse, I often have patients suffering from my same illness. They are amazed when I tell them of our com- mon bond. I’ve had quite a few tell me that I give them hope. I have now met a sickle cell patient above the age of 60 and have read about a sickle cell patient reaching 70+ years. I no longer have a doctor given life expectancy nor do I want one. I realize I’m here for a reason and will be for as long as I’m meant to be. For now, I’m just looking forward to my next goal to face and accomplish. END September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 35 I ask for your support by voting for me on November 6, 2018

My name is Michael Tatman. I am seeking election to the St. Landry Parish School Board for Dis- trict 8 which includes the areas of Grand Coteau, Sunset and Cankton. For several years I served as a public-school middle and high teacher and coach. I have also taught as an Adjunct Instructor at South Louisiana Community College. My passion is for all students to reach their full potential and pursue their vocational dreams through receiving a quality education so that they may become pro- ductive and responsible citizens. Through my experiences as a PTO President, a School Leadership Team President and a member of a School Board Planning Commission Advisory Panel, I have gained valuable insights regarding specific issues that affect our schools. My serving as a Youth Sports Coach, Cub Scout Leader, Tutor, Ordained Minister and Men Bible Study Teacher has provided me with experiences regarding the value and importance of the sacrifice and commitment to giving back to others in order to make our communities a better place to live – for everyone. My father is a retired St. Landry Parish School teacher. I have served as a substitute teacher at Sunset Elementary/Middle School. (Additional lead- ership experiences and qualifications are listed on my campaign card.) Please review my leadership vision and commitments that are listed on my campaign card. I am convinced that through implementing these core initiatives, we can move our public-school educa- tion process forward. According to the 2017 LA Department of Education Public School Performance Scores Report, St. Landry Parish has the highest percent of failing (D/F) schools of the surrounding Acadiana area pub- lic schools. Our children deserve better. Research indicates that the most significant factor for the success of our parish’s economic growth, improved quality of life, infrastructure development and maintenance, cultural transformation and the reduction in crime hinges on the quality of our public education system. When our public-school system performance improves - it’s a Win-Win for everyone. I pledge to work diligently for the ben- efit of our students and parish residents.

Michael Tatman Thanks for your trust and support. May God bless you.

“It’s Our Time to Move Up and Forward”

36 The Southern View September 2018 September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 37 Meet Gwen Candidate for Secretary of State

Gwen Collins-Greenup is a public servant, minister, entre- preneur, wife, mother and lifelong resident of Louisiana. A na- tive of East Feliciana Parish, she currently resides in Clinton with her husband Tarries where they enjoy volunteering with organizations that focus on youth development, mentoring and empowerment. Gwen attended East Feliciana Parish Public Schools, and holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Ac- counting from Liberty University and a Master of Divinity in Pro- fessional Ministries from Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary. She also earned a Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Southern University Law Center, where she was a student attor- ney in the Low Income Taxpayers' Clinic. Her passion for advo- cacy and helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success led her to pursue the next-level in law at Villanova University School of Law where she is a candidate for a Master of Laws in Taxation. Prior to attending law school, Gwen was a Louisiana licensed notary public and title insurance pro- ducer, owned several small businesses, maintained a real estate title abstracting and closing practice, and worked at a tax preparation firm. Her experience in government includes serving as a legal sec- retary with Louisiana Department of Labor, a deputy clerk of court with East Feliciana Parish Clerk of Court, and Director of Criminal/Traffic Division with Baton Rouge City Court. Building on her government, business, and legal background, Gwen continues to pursue her pas- sion for public service by offering herself as a candidate for Louisi- ana Secretary of State, Please visit www.gwensos.com for more information about Gwen’s candidacy and campaign for Louisiana Secretary of State. TOGETHER, WE CAN TURN VISION INTO ACTION

38 The Southern View September 2018 ST. MARTINVILLE, LA Wanda Porter Johnson Candidate for School Board

My mission is to enforce and help over- see the St. Martin Parish School Board poli- cies and procedures, as it relates to giving schools greater teachers, that make great- er students, and have greater schools. I will be accountable and transparent to the students, parents, teachers, support staff and administration staff. I am passionate about making sure all stu- dents have equal access to resources as an important goal. All students should have the resources necessary for a high-quality educa- tion. But the truth remains that some students need more to get there. Equity comes in to balance it all off. The students who are furthest behind require more of those resources to catch up, succeed, and eventually, close the achievement gap. Giving students who come to school lagging academically (because of factors outside of a school’s control) the exact same resources as students in higher income schools alone will not close the achievement gap. But making sure that all students have access to excep- tional teachers and that their schools have the funding to provide them with the kind of high-quality education they need to succeed will con- tinue us on the path toward narrowing that gap. I understand, as an educator myself, how teachers need to adapt throughout the school day as they mold and shape students into life long learners. Teachers can only do this with support. Everything centers around education and we must strive to have proven student perfor- mance success for all students in the communities of St. Martin Parish, that will enable growth, improvement, and opportunity for growing families. My goal is to support St. Martin Parish to produce college and career ready citizens for the 21st century.

Why you? Why now? Why-Not! It's all for student SUCCESS!

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 39

Charlee Renaud Lear

Candidate for Mayor

OPELOUSAS, LA OPELOUSAS,

40 The Southern View September 2018 MIMI METHVIN ~ United States 3rd Congressional District Candidate Mimi Methvin is a fighter. She taught a kickboxing class for ten years, and at 51, she # earned a second-degree black 24 belt. With 28 years’ experience as a federal and state judge along with a track record as a successful attorney and media- tor, Mimi knows how to lead opposing sides to work to- gether and find solutions. She’s also a mother, a yoga instruc- tor, and a genealogist. Mimi believes the spirit of civility, respect and integrity that this country was founded on must be reignited to preserve our democratic institutions. She wants to bring her com- mon sense, skill and intellectual honesty to Washington as a strong voice for the people of Louisiana’s Third Congres- sional District. With broad experience in the justice system, combined with her family’s deep Louisiana roots, Mimi has a rare under- standing of our state and district. She was appointed U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Louisiana at Lafa- yette in 1983 and left the bench in 2009 to launch her private mediation and consulting firm. She later served as a federal magistrate judge in Pennsylvania and Maryland before the Louisiana Supreme Court appointed her Judge Pro Tempore for the 27th Judicial District Court in St. Landry Parish in 2014, where she served for six months. Mimi graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Tulane University and received her J.D. Degree from Georgetown University Law Center. While at Georgetown, she worked full-time for U.S. Representative Gillis Long, and later worked as an As- sistant U.S. Attorney both as a prosecutor and as a civil litigator defending medical malpractice suits. As a judge, Mimi presided over jury and non-jury cases, and has extensive experience managing and supervising com- plex cases from initial discovery through settlement or trial, including a number of class actions, collective actions, and multi-district litigation arising from Hurricane Rita. She has conducted more than 1,200 settlement conferences and me- diations. Mimi served on the national policy-making committee for federal magistrate judges, and organized both American Inns of Court in Lafayette, Louisiana. She currently serves on the Fifth Circuit Advisory Committee for the American Inns of Court Foundation - an organization that works toward professionalism, ethics, civility, and excellence for the legal pro- fession and judiciary. Lafayette Democratic Parish Executive She is board chair of AMIkids Acadiana, a residential facility for at-risk youth in Acadia Parish, and serves on Committee Endorses Mimi Methvin. AMIkids’ national executive committee. She is a board member of the Federal Bar Associa- tion, Acadiana Chapter, and is a frequent speaker on trial advocacy and alternative dispute resolution. Mimi is the mother of Michael and Connor McManus, proud graduates of Lafayette High School, who moved to New Orleans in 2013 after college graduation. Michael is a portrait artist, and Connor is a planner and designer at an architecture and planning firm. Connor is also an art- ist. He is married to Antonia Angress, a school teacher and writer.

Pictured: Susannah Johnson Malbreaux, Sammy Pierre, Kelly Garrett, Methvin, Theresa Rohloff & James D. Thomas September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 41 42 The Southern View September 2018 It’s Just F.Y.I. For Your Information!

On Tuesday, August 28, 2018, members New Beginnings Christian Church, 100 Black Men of Greater Lafa- yette, the NAACP and Move the Mindset came together to commemorate the 55th Anniversary of the March On Washington and Dr. Martin King, Jr. “I HAVE A DREAM” speech. Community leaders met downtown at the site of the Alfred Mouton Statue. While commemorating the march and Dr. King speech they wanted to send a clear message that they were in favor of removing the confederate statue. The Daughters of the Confederacy originally paid for, and put up the monument in 1922, to celebrate Mouton's legacy in Lafayette. Messages from Pastor Carlos Harvin (New Beginnings Christian Church), Whalen Gibbs (100 Black Men), Jack- ie Phelps (Indivisible Acadiana), Fred Prejean (Move the Mindset) and Marja Broussard (NAACP) echoed senti- ments about the removal of the statue. Bishop Larry J. Lloyd, Spirit of Liberty Christian Fellowship, closed the rally with a prayer to end racism, for the community leaders, and to send a message that they don't believe the Mouton statue represents the cities values. Fred Prejean, who at the age of 17 attended the March in Washington shared his experience with the crowd.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 43

44 The The Southern View Photography Spotlight

September 2018 September

Avery LA Island,

Susannah Johnson Malbreaux Miss Susannah’s Etiquette & Manners Program

Manners 24/7© 5 Tools for Saving Civility Here are ways you can make a difference. 1. Nurture your social relationships. They have the capacity to generate your greatest happiness, scientists say. Enrich your connections by balancing Internet contact with phone calls and face-to-face visits, which are more personal forms of communication. 2. Make a habit of practicing kindness, generosity and gratitude. Substantial research shows that people who regularly engage in these acts live longer, healthier and happier lives. It’s never too late to start. 3. Establish meaningful dialogue with medical providers. Assert your right to respectful and compassionate treatment. As a patient, you have the opportunity to evaluate hospital care; hospitals with extensive negative evaluations can lose Medicare subsidies. 4. If you love your grandchildren but not their behavior, seize “teachable moments.” Child development experts say we’re no longer teaching our kids manners — or respect and empathy for others. By contrast, a major study reported that social skills are a more accurate predictor of future success than test scores. So step up your game when the grandchildren are in your house. Enlighten your progeny about the importance of devel- oping interpersonal skills and relationships by engaging them in conversations without small screens and but- tons. That may be your enduring legacy. 5. Promote decency and decorum among elected officials. Hold them accountable for behavior during the 2018 campaign and, more important, once they’re in office. Urge civil discourse and bipartisanship to avoid grid- lock. Your and your country’s livelihoods are at stake. END Everyday Manners is as simple as saying: "Please," "Thank You," and "I'm Sorry" 24/7!

By: Susannah Johnson Malbreaux Manners 24/7© September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 45 On the day of the Sensory Friendly Visits visit, Vermilionville will open early al- To Vermilionville lowing families to tour the village be- Since 1984, Bayou Vermilion District has worked fore it opens to the to beautify, conserve and manage sites along the Ver- public. Once the vil- milion. The organization ensures the preservation lage is open, most and enhancement of the natural and cultural re- sensory friendly ac- sources for the citizens of Lafayette Parish. Bayou commodations re- Vermilion District’s mission focuses on the environ- main in place for an ment and the unique culture of Lafayette. additional hour. Ver- Bayou Vermilion District opened Vermilionville milionville will offer Living History Museum and Folklife Park as a way to special accommoda- preserve and represent the Acadian, Creole and Na- tions and accessories tive American cultures in the Attakapas region from such as sensory sign- 1765-1890. Since its opening in 1990, the historic vil- age, fidgets, quiet lage has become one of Lafayette’s premiere tourist rooms and a By Shawntell Lewis-Harrell attractions welcoming more than 60,000 visitors an- “passport” designed Director of Communications nually, worldwide. Vermilionville sits on a beautiful to celebrate the suc- Bayou Vermilion District tree-covered 23-acre site on the banks of the Bayou cess of your child’s visit. Vermilion in the heart of Lafayette, providing a place At 9:30 a.m., a designated craft area with planting and for education, entertainment, Creole & Cajun cuisine, wild bird crafts will be available. Staff and volunteers re- cultural exchange, historic architecture and more. ceive training prior to the event. We have worked hard to On Saturday, September 22nd from 9:00 a.m. - create a welcoming environment in order to better pre- 11:00 a.m., we invite families and caregivers to join us pare children with neurodiversity for a successful museum during our Sensory Friendly Visit to Vermilionville. experience. We look forward to having you as our guests. Sensory Friendly Visits to Vermilionville are designed The cost is $10 per family and pre-registration is re- to better serve persons with sensory processing dif- quested. Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife ferences. This program was developed utilizing re- Park is located at 300 Fisher Road in Lafayette, LA. search from other museum based sensory tours and input from a Community Advisory Council com- For additional information or to pre-register, prised of parents of children with autism and profes- please contact Melanie Harrington, Education Co- sionals from the school system. ordinator, at 337.233.4077 x.206 or Families pre-registering will receive a “social sto- [email protected] ry” to assist in preparing their child for their special More at: Vermilionville.org outing. END

46 The Southern View September 2018 October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a national campaign held in October that raises awareness about employment issues for disabled people, and celebrates the many and var- ied contributions of America’s workers with disabili- ties. NDEAM’s roots go back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of in- dividuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to “National Disability Employment Awareness Month.”

The Presidential Proclamation of 2015 states: “America is at its strongest when we harness the talents and cele- brate the distinct gifts of all our people. This October, as we observe the 70th anniversary of National Disabil- ity Employment Awareness Month, let us pay tribute to all who fought for better laws, demanded better treat- ment, and overcame ignorance and indifference to make our Nation more perfect. In their honor, and for the bet- terment of generations of Americans to come, let us con- tinue the work of removing obstacles to employment so every American has the chance to develop their skills and make their unique mark on the world we share.” During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the National Consortium on Racial and Ethnic

Fairness in the Courts rec- ognizes the indispensable contributions people with disabilities have made and will continue to make in our economy, and we salute their efforts. Em- ployment opportunities and legal rights should be made available to all peo- ple, regardless of disabil- ity, race, creed, color, na- tional origin or gender.

SOURCE: HTTPS://WWW.DOL.GOV/ODEP/TOPICS/NDEAM/ September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 47 Challenges in Teen Parenting Teen parenting in this day and age is so much different than when I was a teenager. I was expected to listen to my elders, be polite and know my place. Teenagers today ex- pect everything to be handed to them. They believe they are entitled and most times don’t take responsibility for their actions. If they do something wrong, it is someone else’s fault. If I did something wrong, I had to own up to it and make things right.

I see situations where teens are cursing, they are rude, and they have no respect for others, let alone themselves. What happened to this generation of teenagers? Technol- ogy, social media, and neglectful parenting. If parents took more time with their teens, this generation would have more of a chance to do some incredible things. What’s sad is that some parents aren't able to be present to properly raise their kids because they have to work 2 or 3 jobs to pay bills and buy Jordan’s for themselves or their kids. That’s where the expectations of getting what they WANT and not what they NEED comes from.

Teenagers would probably have a better chance if both parents were involved in their lives. Although some- times unavoidable, it's sad when 1 parent has to play the part of both parents; children/teens need both of their parents in their lives.

Where is the drive for teenagers to go to school? Or show initiative to get a job? Learning responsibility comes from home, it starts with the parent (s). We need to motivate our children starting at an early age so that when our children become teenagers they will have good morals, good manners, and great values. END

By Brandy Johnson Helaire

48 The Southern View September 2018 I continue to believe everything will happen in the right time …. To Supporters of Lady Hilda L. Wiltz With divine guidance I move confidently and courageously through my path in life…. Knowing, believing and trusting in God’s Grace, Mercy, Love and Protection that I will meet with outcomes that are best for me, for my life and for my journey. With humility and appreciation I’d like to ex- tend a Huge THANK YOU to my Family, my True Clave Family and all those that supported me. Keep Trusting in Jesus and let the Holy Spirit Guide You and stay the Course, is my prayer And Blessings to all for a successful Journey!

I remain, in Friendship, Unity & Christian Charity,

Lady Hilda Lucille Edna Theresa Wiltz

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 49 Save & Invest Even if Money Is Tight For millennials, today is the right time. If you are under 30, you have likely heard that now is the ideal time to save and invest. You know that the power of compound in- terest is on your side; you recognize the potential advantages of an early start. There is only one problem: you do not earn enough money to invest. You are barely getting by as it is. Regardless, the saving and investing effort can still be made. Even a minimal effort could have a meaningful impact later. Can you invest $20 a week? There are 52 weeks in a year. What would saving and investing $1,040 a year do for you at age 25? Sup- pose the invested assets earn 7% a year, an assumption that is not un- reasonable. (The average yearly return of the S&P 500 through histo- ry is roughly 10%; during 2013-17, its average return was +13.4%.) At a 7% return and annual compounding, you end up with $14,876 after a decade in this scenario, according to Bankrate’s compound interest Stephen W. Bartley, calculator. By year 10, your investment account is earning nearly as much an- Bartley & Co. Financial nually ($939) as you are putting into it ($1,040).1,2 You certainly cannot retire on $14,876, but the early start really matters. Extending the scenario out, say you keep investing $20 a week under the same conditions for 40 years, until age 65. As you started at age 25, you are projected to have $214,946 after 40 years, off just $41,600 in total contribu- tions.2 This scenario needs adjustment considering a strong probability: the probability that your account contributions will grow over time. So, assume that you have $14,876 after ten years, and then you start contributing $175 a week to the account earning 7% annually starting at age 35. By age 65, you are projected to have $1,003,159.2 CONTINUED ON PAGE 51

50 The Southern View September 2018 SAVE & INVEST EVEN IF MONEY IS TIGHT CONTINUED

Even if you stop your $20-per-week saving and investing effort entirely after 10 years at age 35, the $14,876 generated in that first decade keeps growing to $113,240 at age 65 thanks to 7% annual com- pounded interest.2 How do you find the money to do this? It is not so much a matter of finding it as assigning it. A budgeting app can help: you can look at your monthly cash flow and designate a small part of it for sav- ing and investing. Should you start an emergency savings fund first, then invest? One school of thought says that is the way to go – but rather than think either/or, think both. Put a ten or twenty (or a fifty) toward each cause, if your budget allows. As ValuePenguin notes, many deposit accounts are yielding 0.01% inter- est.3 It does not take much to start saving and investing for retirement. Get the ball rolling with any- thing, any amount, today, for the power of compounding is there for you to harness. If you delay the ef- fort for a decade or two, building adequate retirement savings could prove difficult. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoid- ing any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - nerdwallet.com/blog/investing/average-stock-market-return/ [2/28/18]

2 - bankrate.com/calculators/savings/compound-savings-calculator-tool.aspx [7/26/18] END 3 - valuepenguin.com/average-savings-account-interest-rates [7/26/18] Stephen W. Bartley may be reached at (337) 453-2000 or [email protected]

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 51 STALLINGS AND MILTON CONTINUED deal with and the new challenges the church must confront. And so, because of that and always knowing that I can lean on the leadership. I’m excited; I’m ex- cited. People in Lafayette, many of them still don’t know who we are. We are an in- dependent, autonomous, African-centered, Catholic expression of the Christian faith. Those 5 prongs, each of those is a year of study; independent, autonomous, African-centered, Catholic expression of the Christian faith. There is so much to learn, so much to be revealed; but, what is to be revealed, God has already or- dained. ARCHBISHOP: And I often say Bishop-elect Milton and Susannah is that if you want to understand that definition, start from the back. I heard Bishop-elect Mil- ton say that we are an autonomous, independent, African-centered, Catholic ex- pression of the Christian faith, start from the back end of the definition. We are Christians, no doubt about it, we are Christians. But we are Christians who ex- press that our faith in God through Catholicism; Catholicism that is African cen- tered. It goes back to its origin. Christianity – Catholicism, both of them are in- terchangeable; around that same period of time; is of African origin not European. And we’ve decided to be independent and autonomous because we believe we as people know best what is best for us than someone who is a zillion miles away trying to dictate what should be our relationship with God and how we can experience that in the way we serve our community and live out the principles of the Nguzo Saba, the 7 principles of Kwanzaa that we’ve also incorporated into our ministry which is Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work & Re- sponsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and on the foundation of Faith. MILTON: It’s not a cult, it’s a culture. Our culture is formed by our experiences. It doesn’t matter how we got here, but we’re all in the same boat now. As people of color, African Americans. Many people say to me, “Isn’t that kind of racist”, Ya’ll are an African American Catholic church; then I say, what Church do you go to. They say Catho- lic; so you go to the Roman church? Are you Roman? Most of them tell me no “I’m not Roman”, but you didn’t call that racism. They have a Eurocentric mindset as if there’s no other mindset; no African mindset, no Asian mindset, no Native American mindset. There’s a diversity of people in the world. Every culture has a gift to bring to all of humani- ty; we should be able to bring our gift. ARCHBISHOP: It’s amazing about that cult label. Remembering one’s ancestry is a cult? Even in the Roman Catho- lic church they’ve been calling on Saints and don’t even know it. That’s almost idolatry; idolatress. You don’t know. They have African attire and gospel music. In fact, they have adopted the invocation of the saints; that was stolen from Africa in the first place. They’ve been trying to be African for 2,000 years and just don’t realize it. What we’re doing is trying to do is to purify Catholicism; taking it back to its roots. To be an authentic Catholic, really, is to celebrate its origins; to go back to its essence, its original form. We are confident that what we are doing is of God. It is blessed by God. And it has brought us a greater knowledge of Catholicism and also through the educational process of Imani Temple, AACC, we have come to take greater ownership and control over our spirituality, over our accountability and stewardship to God for this creation and that we understand the words of our elder brother, Jesus who is also our Lord and Savior what it means to care for the least of us. And we do it through our service to the community and we challenge each other not to just simply sit on the pew but to stand with all the promises of God.

CLOSING COMMENTS:

MILTON: First I’d like to thank you for all the work you do in the community, the work you do with your maga- zine, The Southern View, it is a process of maintaining our history; that many generations later will come to appreciate it. We thank Archbishop Stallings for being in the Lafayette area today and all week long, for always being available to us and answering our calls when needed. We thank him for allowing God to use and guide him. It’s so amazing when you bring in the Spirit; everybody wakes up. My Church gets full when Archbishop Stallings is here. Thank you. STALLINGS: I’m distinctly thankful to you my Beloved Sister Susannah Johnson Malbreaux. The public service that you render through your publication and through your media outreach is very important to get the story out. And what I admire about you is that you want to get the story correct from the source itself, rather than hearing about it, reading about it from someone else; but getting the persons who are the origins of an institution come before you and get the answers. END By Susannah Johnson Malbreaux 52 The Southern View September 2018 Beyond A Reasonable Doubt? On November 6, 2018, voters across the entire state of Louisiana will have the opportunity to change a constitutional adoption of what many now know as “Louisiana’s split jury”. Louisiana’s split jury law was originally adopted in 1898 during a notoriously racist constitutional convention. An excerpt from the Official Journal of the Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of the State of Louisiana reads: “Our mission was, in the first place, to establish the supremacy of the white race in this State to the extent to which it could be legally and constitutionally done.” Needing only 10 out of 12 jurors to agree, Louisiana is one of only two states in which juries can convict someone by a non-unanimous decision. Oregon is the only other state where a jury can convict non-unanimously; however it is important to note that sentencing for a life term carries eligibility for parole after 25-30 years, whereas, here in Louisiana life means natural life with no eligibility for parole. In oth- er words, Louisiana is the only state in the country where anyone is serving life on a By Kelly Garrett, non-unanimous decision. It is estimated that about 2,000 convicted offenders are do- Louisiana Cure, Vice President ing just that. In providing jury instructions, a criminal court judge discusses the “standard” of proof that jurors should apply to a case when determining their decision. They are asked to decide and vote, individually, “beyond a reasonable doubt”. Once each juror submits their vote, collectively, a verdict is decided, needing only 10 out of 12 jurors to agree. So a few questions come to mind, if two jurors (or even at least one) have individual reasonable doubt, wouldn’t that provide that same reasonable doubt among the jury as a whole, since that jury as a whole are given instructions to submit their decision, collectively “beyond a reasonable doubt”? Secondly, what kind of message does that send to those doubting jurors? That, perhaps maybe, their voices don’t actually matter? 120 years from its inception, the state of Louisiana is still depicting whose voice matters. It’s now time we, as vot- ing citizens, MAKE it matter!! Be sure you and/or your family members are registered to vote by October 9, 2018.

Early voting begins October 23- October 30, 2018 leading up to Election Day, November 6th. END OUR VOTE MATTERS!

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 53 In Loving Remembrance of my dear friend, Jamie Porter James. The lives of Jamie and her mother, Adeline Porter Etienne were tragically and horrifically taken on February 27, 2016 by Jamie’s ex-boyfriend. 2 Years; 6 Months Gone!

54 The Southern View September 2018 ment of their accomplishments in Creole Sisters’ Lafayette Bus Tour receiving their individual Jus’ Blues Music Award. Bev Johnson of Memphis radio The venue was packed with fans WDIA and Soul man Calvin Richard- and the who's who of Blues & Soul son were excellent hosts and kept music. The audience was excitedly the show moving and grooving. Bev impressed as they not only got to was beautiful and Calvin was hilari- enjoy a great production but also got ous as he offered funny anecdotes to mingle and take pictures with the and gave the audience several ward- many artists and industry folks that robe changes. were there enjoying the festivities. On August 2-5, Creole Sisters Rous- The Blues Got a Soul Technology traveled for educational tours, music, ing per- Conference and has upped the value eatery, and fun filled activities. Ap- formance of being in attendance with veteran proximately 30 folks traveled to t r i b u t e s artists and industry professionals of- Jackson & Tunica, MS and Memphis, w e r e fering pertinent music business infor- TN to attend the 18th Annual Jus made and mation via workshops. Music profes- Blues Music Award Show & Confer- p l a y e d sionals like Dr. Johnny Jones, Dr. ence. honoring Clark White, Vocal Coach & Artist Upon their arrival, they enjoyed a departed Keisha Jackson, Music Marketer Ar- good breakfast then traveled to Mea- music leg- thur Mitchell, Social Media Specialist ger Evans childhood home. They ends, in- Domonique Anderson and Legal & visited the Civil Rights Museum and c l u d i n g Publishing Expert Jonathan Mason Museum of Mississippi History then Jus’ Blues gave presentations and offered their traveled to St. Jude Hospital, Danny Honorees expertise to the attendees. Addition- Thomas Memorial Garden and the Denise LaSalle and Mr. Beale Street ally, veteran hit songwriters Jimmy Lorraine Hotel. Preston Shannon. A deeply personal Roach and Henderson Thigpen ad- We supported Krewe of DeJaVu and heartfelt speech was given by Sir vised new songwriters how to best Authentic New Orleans Cuisine and Charles Jones who was honored advance their careers. A & M Wings Diner-Black own. On with the Willie Mitchell Lifetime The legendary Jus’ Blues White their way home they stopped at Full Achievement Award. Son of legend- Party was elevated to another level Gospel Tabernacle -Bishop Al Green ary Boom, Boom, Boom Blues man, with the musical talents of Gerald and enjoyed every minute of the ser- John Lee Hooker, Jr. was the recipi- Richardson and world renowned vice. ent of the Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland Life- Mississippi Blues star, Grady Cham- Another stop was the famed time Achievement Award. He literal- pion who rocked the party into the Bluesville venue located inside ly took the audience to church with wee hours. Horseshoe Tunica Casino & Hotel. his rousing personal testimony of his The festivities conclud- It was set on fire opening night of times of troubles to triumphant vic- ed Saturday evening and well in- the 2018 Jus’ Blues Music Awards & tory through God and music. All the to Sunday morning at the Jus’ Blues Conference! It was lit with soul stir- honorees seemed humbled via their Juke Joint Fish Fry Party. ring performances by Latimore, Ka- speeches at receiving acknowle- ren Wolfe, Larry Garner, Toni By Brenda Andrus CONTINUED ON PAGE Green, Chick Rodgers, Calvin Richardson, John Primer, Ms. Jody, Tyree Neal, Toni Lynn Washington, Marquise Knox, Sheba Potts-Wright, Willie Clayton, R. L. Boyce and oth- ers. Mighty Memphis Blues & Soul Band A-440 jammed be- hind all the artists and filled the room with funky and soul- ful sounds.

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 55 The stars Note from Ms. Pat Cravins, 1st time attendee! CREOLE SISTERS’ LAFAYETTE BUS TOUR CONTINUED of the night were the audience as they were entertained by: Our very own Mr. Christopher Guillory of Opelousas, La, Memphis’ own Chilly Bill and Dallas Blues legend Gregg A. Smith. The audience danced the night away and was also treated to a special guest ap- pearance by Nellie “Tiger” Travis who performed her hit song, “Mr. Sexy Man.” Being on Fire, Feeling, Funk & Soul Outstanding Blues & Soul Music From the early age of 3 (three), Tyree Neal has been drawn to performing on stage. Tyree has continued the Neal legacy as a guitarist, singer, and keyboardist. Tyree comes from a blues fami- ly; His granddaddy the late Raful Neal made sure all his children understood the meaning of the Blues. His famous Blues legend uncle Kenny Neal also played a part in his young career. Tyree a Blues protégé, a writer, producer and performer in the hip-hop, R & B and Blues genre. His most rewarding experiences were his years as Musical Director, Lead Guitarist and Vocalist for his aunt the late Southern Soul Diva Jackie Neal. Outstanding contributions to preserving traditional Blues writ- ing style is Larry Garner is a Louisiana blues musician; he learned how to play the guitar from his uncle and several gospel-playing elders. After completing his military service in Korea, he re- turned to Baton Rouge and embarked on a musical career rooted in the swamp blues tradition and indigenous to Ba- ton Rouge environs. Garner brings laudable contemporary sensibility and witty composing skills to his craft. He re- members the days he played at Tabby's Blues Box; he met blues legends like Silas Hogan, Whispering Smith, Arthur Kelly and Raful Neal. END

56 The Southern View September 2018 LAFAYETTE HOUSING AUTHORITY Joins Vera Institute of Justice in Initiative to Increase Access to Public Housing for Formerly Incarcerated People Funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the initiative will implement reentry programs & improve admissions policies for people with conviction histories

LAFAYETTE, LA - Access to safe and affordable housing is a right often not afforded to formerly incarcerated people— challenges such as affordability, restrictive housing policies, lack of employment and credit history, and the stigma of having a criminal conviction may hinder one’s chances of securing a place to live. Yet, for more than 600,000 people leaving prison and the nearly 11 million cycling through jails annually, research shows that safe, affordable housing is essential for them to succeed after they are released. At present, admissions criteria across much of the country’s public housing restricts people with convic- tion histories from either moving back in with their family members or obtaining their own housing on release.

Today, LAFAYETTE HOUSING AUTHORITY announced a new partnership with the Vera Institute of Justice (Vera), with sup- port from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), to join the Opening Doors to Public Housing Initi- ative, a national project that aims to substantially change public housing admissions policies and reduce barriers that prevent people from safely and successfully reentering their communities once released from prison or jail. LAFAYETTE HOUSING AUTHORITY joins a cohort of public housing authorities (PHAs) and consortia of agencies selected through a competitive ap- plication process, including: Oklahoma City Housing Authority (OK), Housing Authority of the County of San Diego in collabo- ration with five housing authorities (CA), and a state consortium of five agencies led by the Delaware State Housing Authority. Statement of Support: “Housing is a key component of our criminal justice reinvestment, and certainly it is critical to establishing stability for our re- turning citizens. It is imperative we do everything we can to set up releasing offenders to succeed. I applaud the Lafayette Parish Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee, the Lafayette Housing Authority, and the Vera Institute for their unwavering commit- ment.”

—James M. LeBlanc, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections

The eight lead PHAs vary in geography, the number and types of units managed, metropolitan population, and resident diversity. All of the PHAs have demonstrated a commitment to partnering with local law enforcement and other stakeholders. “All of society benefits when formerly incarcerated people are able to reintegrate safely and successfully back into the commu- nity”, said Margaret diZerega, Project Director at the Vera Institute of Justice. “By partnering with housing authorities, resi- dents, law enforcement, and community partners, we can assess admissions policies for people with conviction histories and facilitate safe reentry. We are deeply encouraged by the diverse array of housing authorities and agencies that are joining us in our movement to ensure that those released from jail and prison, and those whose families live in public housing, are able to return home.”

LAFAYETTE HOUSING AUTHORITY will receive up to 12 months of technical assistance to: 1. Safely increase access to housing for people with conviction histories or juvenile records to improve reentry outcomes and reduce recidivism rates. 2. Improve the safety of public housing and surrounding communities through the use of reentry housing strategies. 3. Promote collaboration between public housing authorities, law enforcement agencies, and other criminal justice stakehold- ers to effectively reduce crime and improve reentry outcomes for people leaving prisons and jails.

Since 2017, the Open Doors to Public Housing Initiative has worked with public housing authorities, community supervision agencies, and reentry service providers to promote family reunification and successful reentry outcomes for formerly incarcer- ated people. The new sites join a growing cadre of PHAs partnering with Vera to make similar reforms, including: Asheville

(NC), New Orleans, New York City, Providence (RI), Springfield (MA), Tacoma (WA), and a state agency in Colorado.

Lafayette Housing Authority “Hope, Opportunity, Success!” Three simple words that render the Housing Authority of the City of Lafayette (LHA) as more than a housing provider. Serving nearly 2,500 families in the City of Lafayette and Lafayette and Vermilion Parishes, through its affordable housing programs and strategic partnership initiatives, the LHA is instilling hope, creating opportunities and realizing success. More information: www.thelha.com

About the Vera Institute of Justice The Vera Institute of Justice is a justice reform change agent. Vera produces ideas, analysis, and research that inspire change in the systems people rely upon for safety and justice, and works in close partnership with government and civic leaders to imple- ment it. Vera is currently pursuing core priorities of ending the misuse of jails, transforming conditions of confinement, and en- suring that justice systems more effectively serve America’s increasingly diverse communities. More information: www.vera.org For media inquiries, contact: Poonam Mantha 212-376-3133

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 57 Wilson Johnson, Jr. & Harold Johnson, Sr. Keeping in Memory “The Loss of Two 1st Born Sons”

August 29, 2017, I received a phone call from my Mother. Little did I know that call would have such an impact on not only myself, but my entire family. I lis- tened as she began to tell me that the son of my young- est brother, Wilson had just passed away. It had been years since I’d seen Wilson J. Johnson, Jr. He was only 28 years old. I followed him on social media and my brother, Wilson, kept me abreast of himself and his family. As my Mother spoke, I was still in disbelief. At that time, she did not know what caused his death. But, I began to feel the pain I knew my brother was experi- encing , even though he was thousands of miles away. What would I say to him? Words can never express what we’re really feeling. How could I ease his pain? During the weeks leading to the trip I knew I had to make to California, I communicated often with my fami- ly. The arrangements were made for September 9, 2017. We flew to Temecula, CA where my nephew and his wife Karina and their two sons (Xavier and Jere- miah resided. Our times together were very special. Our return to Lafayette was scheduled for Monday, September 11th. Once again, I received a phone call Wilson J. Johnson, Jr. 10/26/1988 - 08/29/2017 from Mother. My oldest brother, Harold was not doing well, he had been taken to the hospital. I was supposed to call him on Sunday. I did not make the call. I was going to follow up on one of his a Facebook posts. His message was clear, but I didn’t believe it. While on the plane, I had no access to text messages. Then, all of a sudden, I began to cry. And I knew, he had passed away. I began to flashback to the last time he and I spoke, the day we departed for the California flight. It was great. We talked and laughed. I told him I’d see him when I returned and to take care of himself. He’d been ill for a while. My flight arrived in New Orleans, my cousin Shelia was waiting for me. She didn’t have to say a word. I told her, “I know”. It was a bitter sweet drive to Lafayette. I wanted to drive as fast as I could, but there was nothing I could do once I arrived home, nothing but look to console his children, my siblings, my children and my Mother. Then, I was consoled with the thought about him passing on 911; if he had to meet his maker, no doubt 911 is the day he would have chosen; as a veteran he’d want a double memory. Harold “Linc” Johnson, Sr. 10/09/1952 - 09/11/2017 By Susannah Johnson Malbreaux

58 The Southern View September 2018 In the Spotlight! A glimpse of past events...

August 5, 2018 ~ “Kuts for Kids” & “Stuff A Backpack”, Lafayette, LA Upsilon Rho Chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and 100 Black Men of Greater Lafayette Inc. hosts the “Kuts for Kids” & “Stuff A Backpack.” Hundred of children, along with their parents/guardians showed up for haircuts and left with a backpack. Food and drinks were provided for the children.

Photos by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 59 In the Spotlight! A glimpse of past events...

August 8, 2018 ~ Imani 25th Anniversary Celebration ~ “Walk Down Memory Lane”, Lafayette, LA

Photos by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux 60 The Southern View September 2018 August 9, 2018 ~ Imani 25th Anniversary Celebration ~ “Evening With Archbishop” Lafayette, LA Community issues are discussed with Archbishop Stallings, Bishop-Elect John W. Milton, LCG District 3 Councilman Patrick “Pat” Lewis, State Rep Vincent Pierre and Lafayette Parish School System Board member Elroy Broussard.

Photos by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux

September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 61 In the Spotlight! A glimpse of past events...

August 11, 2018 ~ Imani 25th Anniversary Celebration ~ Imani Banquet, Lafayette, LA

His Holiness, G. Augustus Stallings, Jr., Patriarch and Founder Imani Temples

Photos by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux

62 The Southern View September 2018 August 12, 2018 ~ Imani 25th Anniversary Celebration ~ High Mass, Lafayette, LA

Photos by Susannah Johnson Malbreaux September 2018 The Southern View thesouthernview.wordpress.com 63 The Southern View September 2018