Special to the American Press

The city of Lake Charles and the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA have announced the recipients of the 2024 Mayor’s Arts Awards.

The Mayor’s Arts Awards honors those working in the arts by recognizing the contributions of Southwest Louisiana’s creative workers, patrons, and artists to the region’s culture. Mayor Nic Hunter presented the awards to each recipient at Historic City Hall on Nov. 7.

“We are so grateful to honor the contributions that these individuals and organizations have made to the culture of Southwest Louisiana! Without them, our community wouldn’t be the vibrant place it is today,” Hunter said. “Without the art galleries, concerts, photographs, murals, art businesses, and supporters, Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana would be a far less enjoyable place to live. Thankfully, that’s something we don’t have to experience, and that is because of these exceptionally talented and dedicated recipients.”

The recipients are as follows: Citizens of the Arts is Mary Richardson for her work to support the arts with Banners at McNeese State University and beyond retirement; Citizen of the Humanities is Charles McNeely for an inspiring 27 years teaching at McNeese State University and his passionate, archiving work with DevDoc Theatre; Arts Educator of the Year is Beverly Jones for educating new generations of musicians through Louisiana’s only homeschool band program; Arts Organization of the Year is Christian Youth Theater for entertaining our community with over 20 shows and allowing children to develop character and creativity; Patron of the Year is Robert “Reed” Mendelson Jr. for his commitment to financially supporting the Southwest Louisiana community by single-handedly underwriting Banners attendance; the Keystone Award will go posthumously to Chuck and Jan Ehlers for their unwavering dedication and awe-inspiring work in the Southwest Louisiana creative community for over 3 decades; and the Artist of the Year honors Rich Barrett/Quinn, a lighting designer, educator, artist, and master technician, who is dedicated to enriching the local arts community in Southwest Louisiana.

“This year’s awardees have conveyed what it means to be part of the Southwest Louisiana Creative Community through their commitment to bringing art and culture to our area.” said Payton Dodds, director of Cultural Affairs. “We are proud of their work and look forward to see what the future of Lake Charles holds.”