www.womenscommissionswla.com

WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCEThursday, October 16, 2014 | Lake Charles Civic Center

In Celebration of Women

Register now at www.womenscommissionswla.com

A Message from the ChairpersonKrystle Johnson

On behalf of the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana, Inc., you are invited to treat yourself to our 24th Annual Fall Conference on Thursday, October 16, 2014. Ladies it is time to reserve that special day for yourself – the one day that is designed with women in mind. Come pamper, inspire, empower, network and have fun with your friends!

There will be many exciting and informational workshops. For your shopping enjoyment, you can visit our wonderful Marketplace and highlight your day with our Keynote Speaker Luncheon. Without further adieu, it’s with great pleasure that I announce our 2014 Keynote Speaker, Star Jones.

I would like to thank all of the sponsors for your financial partnership with the Women’s Commission of Southwest Louisiana and a special thank you to my fellow commissioners for your year-long dedication and hard work. Without all of you, this conference would not be possible.

Ladies mark your calendar, grab a friend, and make your plans for a memorable day!

Hope to see you there!

Krystle JohnsonFall Conference Chair/Vice Presidentinfo@womenscommissionswla.com

S P O N S O R S

2014 WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCE

Star Jones is an Emmy award nominated TV host, attorney, best-selling author, and former New York City homicide prosecutor, who has worked in television for over 20 years; offering a fresh perspective to the day’s most talked about crime and justice, political and sociological issues from the worlds of news, entertainment, politics and pop culture. Skilled in law, media and business, Star presently serves as National Spokesperson and Chief Development Officer for the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) the largest (over 600,000 women with over 300 local chapters) professional women’s networking organization in the US.

As a featured personality for numerous consumer brands, Star has graced the cover of and/or been featured in every major newspaper and magazine in the country on topics ranging from news to lifestyle. An accomplished author who has written two best- selling non-fiction books, Star’s third best-selling book, the fictional Satan’s Sisters is being developed into a network television movie and series by VH1 which Star will co- Executive Produce.

Heavily involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, Star Jones can now add Survivor and Heart Health Advocate to her impressive list of credentials. In 2010, Star underwent successful Open Heart Surgery and in 2011 was named the American Heart Association’s National Volunteer; utilizing her name, voice, time and international media platform to combat cardio-vascular disease, the nations’ number one killer and champion Heart Health in America.

A frequent motivational speaker, Star lectures on a variety of topics including, Law, Politics, Race, Gender Equality, Networking, Female Empowerment, Pop Culture, Fitness and Heart Health.

October 16Lake Charles Civic CenterDoors open at 8:00 amPamper • Inspire • Empower • Network

Keynote Speaker: star Jones

CONFERENCE WORKSHOPSSESSION I (9:00 – 9:50am) 1. CANCER CARE EVOLVED CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital Platinum Sponsor Presented by Dr. David Chang Learn about cancer prevention, diagnosis

and treatment with Dr. Chang. Many people feel the need to go out of town for cancer care. Find out why the most advanced care can now be found in Lake Charles and why the healing power of home is so important to those who are going through treatment.

2. SAVOR THE FABULOUS HEALTHY FLAVOR OF OLIVE OIL

Healthy Image/Thrive Magazine Platinum Sponsor Presented by Melanie McMullen and Fran Avery Join Melanie, Fran and a local dietician

from Crave for food, information and fun! Rich, beautiful, and fragrant, olive oil is much like wine - varied in color, aroma and flavor, and best when paired with specific foods. What’s not to love? Learn the finer points of olive oils at this workshop and what flavors best pair with different foods. You’ll also learn how to use olive oils in a variety of recipes, including dressings, marinades, entrées, and even desserts. We’ll have samples for you to taste, recipes to share and much more!

3. TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF STRESSFUL Presented by Theresa Billups Whether at work or home, there are times

when stress can become overwhelming. Theresa will teach you several techniques to effectively cope with stress and anxiety. Come prepared to relax & de-stress.

4. WHAT’S REALLY BEHIND PARANORMAL EXPERIENCES

Presented by Starr Muro One thing that ghosts, Bigfoot, and UFOs

have in common is a lack of hard evidence for their existence. Many people report seeing these phenomena, though sightings are essentially stories, not proof. Join Starr, independent paranormal investigator, as she helps us understand what’s real and what’s not. Some of her paranormal experiences include shows like Discovery Channel Destination America, Ghost Caught on Tape and Haunted American. And currently, Starr is working on her own show to be released soon.

5. WINNING IS BETTER!! Presented by Pastor Mary Guidry-Ringo Author of the popular new book, “FAITH TO

BELIEVE – FAITH TO WIN”, Commissioner & Pastor Mary will coach you from the

mediocrity of your stagnant comfort zone, toward the marvelous master plan for your life. She will challenge you to get back up, dust off, get your second wind, and get back in the race… no matter what may have knocked you down. Fear, defeat, guilt, and unforgiveness are no longer acceptable excuses. YOU WERE CREATED TO WIN!

6. A WOMAN AND HER JOURNEY TO FORGIVENESS – (SPIRITUAL)

Presented by Rev. Whitney Miller and Laurie Cormier

As the character, Rose said in the movie Titanic, “A woman’s heart is a deep ocean of secrets.” Some of those secrets (and some things not so secret) cause hatred, bitterness, resentment and grudges and can lead to the sickness of unforgiveness. This sickness can damage your life spiritually, emotionally and physically. Here is an opportunity for you to make a journey to forgiveness and be set free of this sickness -- Forgiving is for-giving. Come! Father Whitney & Commissioner Laurie will help you discover a more peaceful path.

7. PARTY PLANNING Presented by Angie Reon Do you dread the thought of hosting a party,

never enjoying your guests because you’re worrying instead? Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or an event for 100 people, the steps to success are basically the same. Angie will help you learn to plan, decorate, develop a menu and what items to keep on hand to throw a fabulous event without breaking the bank. This workshop will give you the tools you need to throw parties that keep people begging for an invitation!

Session II (10:20 – 11:10am)8. COOKING COURSE TO HELP COOK, EAT

AND LAUGH YOUR WAY TO: “NOW LET’S COOK CAJUN, CHER!”

Presented by Chef Jude Theriot Master certified Chef, Jude W. Theriot, will

actually demonstrate how to Cook Cajun. He will show you how to put the “Joie de Vie!” into your cooking. His grandmother always told him “Cher, first you put your Heart in the Pot, then it will all come out

okay!” Cajun Cooking is about enjoying life and taking on an attitude that brings everyone happiness and enjoyment. He offers a cooking demonstration, a lot of

Cajun Humor and an actual tasting of the food cooked. The workshop is designed

to leave you engaged, enlightened and tantalized by excellent Cajun food. Laissez les bon temps rouler, Cher!

9. ASK THE DOCTORS Imperial Health, Platinum Sponsor Presented by Imperial Health Group Have a burning health question? “The

Doctors” of Imperial Health are here to provide the answers. Join us “on the set” for this special panel discussion led by a team of area physicians and medical specialists. Get specific information about heart disease, family/general health concerns, allergies & sinusitis, skin care, back, preventive care and much more! Get your answers from Dr. Jake LeBeau (cardiology), Dr. Melissa Rasberry (family practice), Dr. Bridget Loehn (ENT), Dr. Justin Wu (rheumatology), and Dr. Craig Morton, (physical medicine & rehabilitation).

10. WOMEN BE LIKE... (SPIRITUAL) Presented by Pastor Hope Snider In today’s fast-paced society, the definition

of who we are is ever changing. Woman: noun, 1. Adult female human being 2. Wife 3. Mom 4. Chef 5. Secretary 6. Chauffeur 7. Domestic engineer...and the list goes on & on. As we strive to “have it all” & live up to life’s increasing demands, women be like... “HELP!” We are stressed out, overwhelmed, & FRAZZLED! But God be like... “GIRL, I GOT YOU!” He will offer you peace, comfort, & rest! Please join Pastor Hope of Christian World Ministries, as she teaches us how to receive God’s nurturing love for ourselves & apply it to our supercharged lives to find the respite we so desperately need.

11. FROM SIMPLE TO FUN: MAKEUP TECHNIQUES THAT WORK FOR YOU!

Presented by Jillyan Chamblee From the “Oh my gosh, I forgot to set the

alarm” look, to the “I need to impress my husband” look, and to the “Your Everyday Woman” look, Jillyan will teach different makeup techniques that will get you through the day and the weekend, as an everyday woman!

12. ZYDECO FITNESS AEROBIC/ LINE DANCE WORKOUT

Presented by Mona Lisa Doshier “Laissez les bons temps rouler” with

Zydeco Aerobics! Come try this fun, high energy, fat-burning workout that will have you feeling good inside and out. Learn

popular line dances and experience a great workout with Mona Lisa while having fun!

13. SIX STEPS THAT LAUNCH A SUCCESSFUL LIFELONG CAREER

Presented by RB Smith With the unprecedented industrial

expansion announced for the five parish region of Southwest Louisiana, there are tremendous opportunities for local citizens who have the needed workforce skills to find employment locally. Join R B Smith, Vice President for Workforce Development at the Chamber SWLA, to cover the six steps that prepare someone with the qualifications to interview for an entry level job in industry.

14. PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN/YOUTH FROM INTERNET PREDATORS

Presented by Sheryl Abshire Join Sheryl, a seasoned professional

technology educator, as she shares best practices and tips for assuring that our children are wise and prudent users of the massive resources offered for education and entertainment on the internet. Most young people are masters at surfing the web, but are they…are you aware of the potential dangers? Come learn all you need to know to provide our children with a safe, secure internet environment.

Lunch served

in the Coliseum at the North end of the first floor at 11:15am. Opening remarks begin promptly at 11:30am.

Session III (1:30 – 2:20 pm)15. FLORAL DESIGNS WITH THE TOOL BELT

DIVA L’Auberge Casino Resort, Platinum Sponsor Presented by Lucinda Peltier Louisiana Master Florist Lucinda Peltier

LMF, AIFD, will share her expertise on how to construct easy, yet dramatic floral designs using everyday items found in your garage or hardware store. From poultry

wire to pipe, these hardware implements incorporated with your arrangements will provide a unique and attractive component to feature your floral designs. The possibilities are boundless with this topic so let your imagination flourish with ideas as Lucinda shows you different ways to punch up the drama in your home and

at events by giving your arrangements a personal and unique touch.

16. NEW FDA APPROVED MEDICATIONS TO HELP WOMEN LOSE EXCESS POUNDS & GET HEALTHY

Lake Area Medical Center (formerly Women & Children’s Hospital)

Platinum Sponsor Presented by Dr. Atif Jadoon and Dr. Dennis Miller Weight management is a growing

concern in this country. Six out of every 10 Americans are overweight or obese. If you struggle with excess weight, our physician experts, Doctors Atif Jadoon & Dennis Miller might have the answer you are looking for. A few of the new weight loss medications on the market are yielding great success. Learn what is ‘safe’ and ‘not so safe’ when it comes to managing your weight.

17. BELLY DANCE FUSION-LET’S DANCE! Presented by Aishe Moon International Dance Company celebrates

the beauty and natural movement of women. Originating in the East, “belly dance” has many different forms depending on the country and region, both in costume and movement. In this workshop, Aishe will explore with you some basic movements from the styles of belly dance offered at our studio; mainly Egyptian and American Tribal Style®. Belly dance provides an opportunity for students to be comfortable with their bodies, enables creative expression, and improves self-confidence; essentials for well-being!

18. PROTECTION, MARKSMANSHIP, SAFETY: DEFENDING YOURSELF AGAINST INTRUDERS

Presented by Donnie Presutti and David May With crime on the rise and regulations

being imposed, it is now more important than ever to stand up and fight back for your protection, property, and rights. Donnie Presutti & David May will teach the basic techniques and the laws to protect

yourself and loved ones from intruders and dangerous situations inside or outside your home.

19. CREATE A WINNING EDGE: DEVELOPING STRATEGIES FOR YOUR SUCCESS

Presented by Rev. Jody Robert and Dr. Cathy Denison

Cut through the mounds of Success literature to create your own strategies and plan to achieve a more fulfilling life. Through this interactive workshop Rev. Jody Robert and Dr. Cathy Denison will provide you with the essentials to develop your own Success Journey and “Create a Winning Edge.”

20. REAL SPOUSAL LOVE IS HOLY IN GOD’S SIGHT (SPIRITUAL)

Presented by Father Edward Richard An introduction to the Theology of the

Body as taught by St. John Paul II. Learn why Married Love is a part of God’s Plan and Father Richard can explain to you what it really means.

21. LIVING IN COLOR Presented by Judith Zaunbrecher We are all so different and yet we share

many characteristics that enable us to relate and appreciate our differences. How do these qualities work for us in our daily lives? What actions would we take if we could predict the results? Join Judith as she presents an opportunity to see ourselves and others in an honest context that uncovers different ways of being.

Session IV (2:50 – 3:40 pm)22. MODERN MANNERS Healthy Image/Thrive Magazine Platinum Sponsor Presented by Sara Smith From the dining room to the board room,

there’s no substitute for having a mastery of social graces. Even though society is less formal than in the past, modern technology and the fast-paced world we live in are teeming with opportunities to unintentionally offend. When it comes to your career, knowing proper business etiquette can definitely give you a competitive edge. Sara, etiquette expert and owner of PaperSmith, will help you solve all of your modern etiquette dilemmas.

23. HERE COMES SANTA CLAUSE Treasures of Marilyn’s Platinum Sponsor Presented by Marilyn and Beth Dawdy Christmas is right around the corner.

Learn fast, easy and elegant decorating and entertaining ideas to spice up your home this holiday season. For 36 years, Marilyn’s Flowers and Catering has built a business on entertaining guests across Louisiana. This dynamic mother/daughter duo loves what they do!

24. WOMEN, SEX AND MONEY - A NEW OUTLOOK ON SEXUALITY!

Presented by Diana Ross This workshop will cover the questions

women ask themselves about their sexuality and relationships. Do you ask yourself these questions? I wonder if he looks at me that way when I’m not looking? Where did all the interest, anticipation and excitement go? How do I spice up my love life when there’s the job, the kids and little or no time for me? Does my making more money than him affect our love life? Diana will lead an exploration on numerous ways to put a little excitement into being the wonderfully sensual women that we were created to be!

25. LOUISIANA: LAND OF PERPETUAL ROMANCE

Presented by Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne Looking for inspiration for your next

Louisiana visit? Are you ready for a day trip, girlfriend getaway or a weekend away? Join Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne to find some hidden gems close by and start planning your bucket list of Louisiana places to visit.

26. CUTTING EDGE APPS FOR PEOPLE ON THE GO

Presented by Chris Meaux and Tyson Queen Waitr is an app for smartphones and

tablets that adds speed and efficiency to your dining experience. Chris will show you how there is no more waiting for a server once you have a table. Order appetizers and add a main course or dessert while dining. Finished dining? You can pay your bill through Waitr and be on your way.

GoGoGrocer is an app for automatic grocery purchasing. Tyson will teach you to use your smartphone, tablet, or home computer, to place your order so it will be ready for pick-up, remember your purchase history, and convert your recipes into shopping lists.

27. ZUMBA FITNESS Presented by Daniel Gonzalez Zumba is a fusion of Latin and

international dance moves that will get your heart jumping and put a smile on your face. Just bring your groove attitude and your smile, and shake-shake Zumba style, no matter what your fitness level! Wear comfortable sneakers and be prepared to have the Zumba experience of a lifetime.

28. WORKPLACE R.E.A.D.Y! Presented by Gwen Guillory and Crystal

Scott Resume, Exploring Job Opportunities,

Applying for the Job, Demand Occupations & Careers and You! Gwen and Crystal will provide assistance with looking for or getting placed in a new job. Learn how to develop an effective resumé and cover letter. We will explore 10 steps that a job seeker can follow on the path to a new or better job (from employer/ job searches through resumé writing and interviewing). We will provide steps to follow the path of selecting the ideal career or occupation. We will also discuss appropriate workplace attire and etiquette. If you need help with choosing a new career, wish to change careers, or simply want to satisfy your curiosity about other career possibilities, this is the workshop for you.

Market PlaceOur MarketPlace will provide you with lots of opportunities to shop to your heart’s content.

Register in one of three easy ways:ON-LINE: Go-Green by completing your registration on-line. Go to our

website at www.womenscommissionswla.com, using your MasterCard or VISA. On-line registration - $30.00 (ends Sunday, October 5, 2014.)

MAIL-IN: Clip or copy the registration form below, or download the printable registration form that can be found on our website. Make your check or money order payable to the Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. for $30.00; and mail before the deadline of October 5, 2014 with the completed registration form to:

Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc. P.O. Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606

ON-SITE: The cost of on-site registration is $40.00 per person, for the entire day or any portion of the day. On-site registration opens at 8:00 a.m. on October 16, 2014. Cash, checks or credit cards will be accepted on the day of the Conference.

For additional registration information, email registration@womenscommissionswla.com.

Last Name ____________________________ First Name_________________________

Home Address ____________________________________________________________

City _________________________________________ State ________ Zip __________

Home Phone ___________________________ Alt./Cell Phone ______________________

Email: ___________________________________________________________________

SPECIAL SEATING:

I will need handicap access

I am hearing impaired/hard of hearing

WORKSHOP PREFERENCES: Indicate your workshop number in the box provided.

Session I Workshops # 1-7 Session II Workshops # 8-14

Session III Workshops # 15-21 Session IV Workshops # 22-28

REGISTRATION FEE:

ONLINE & MAIL-IN: $30.00 (ends on Sunday, October 5, 2014)

ON-SITE: $40.00 (after Monday October 6, 2014 or day of the Conference, Thursday, October 16, 2014)

Credit card payments may be made on-line or on-site. Mail completed registration form with check or money order to:

Women’s Commission of SWLA, Inc.PO Box 6712, Lake Charles, LA 70606

OR

This form can be duplicated or downloaded from our website.

PLEASE USE ONE FORM PER PERSON TO REGISTER.

Celebrate with Us:registration:

Active MembersLucretia BallouSharon BayardCheryl BertrandSelena Jo CisnerosBeth DawdyWendy DutelErica GibbsRhonda GoodlyBrenda GueringerCynthia HawkinsCheryl HeisserRose HennyFrances JeffordsDebra JohnsonKrystle JohnsonSandy LaurelAshley Nash LavineCarol Ann MartinMay McCorquodaleAnna MurphyThail PeteMichelle PocheStephanie RodrigueMandy ScogginChristy SevierSamantha SimienChantell SmithCarol SpenceVonda TallmanLynn TeteTammy ThibodeauxCynthia TomlinsonBettye TousaintNancy Hinch TowerMelonie WallaceSusan WannageDeAnne Ward-WineyCarol WelkeGlenda Williams

Advisory MembersMelisa AdrianSusan BlevinsDebbie BoudreauxPrissy BultSue ConnLinda DoucetElaine DyerDena EverageRuth GiaimisMary Guidry-RingoJan GuilloryMaxine GuilloryCarol HenrySybil IrvingPetie LaBoveDebra LastrapesAngel MeffordSheila NelsonMartha PolkKimmie SaucierBernadette SeaberryBrenda Wilkinson

Emeritus MembersFranyora ClophusBelinda DugasBarbara ForsytheSharyn JohnsonAnita McMorrisDiana RentropCindy Roy

Lifetime MembersBetty AndersonVerda AnthonyLois ClementMarilyn DunnDonna GreenHarriet GreenSandra JonesMary Ann Kohnke-BorelLinda Lebert-CorbelloRose MalveauxCindy MorrisseyKim MyersPat MyersEtta PeteJuanita PolandPrincella RyanBeverly St. Mary

WOMEN’S FALL CONFERENCEThursday, October 16, 2014 Lake Charles Civic Center

Featuring: star Jones