Special to the American Press

Top Ladies of Distinction Inc., Lake Charles Chapter, held its 45th Founders’ Day Observance on Feb. 10 using the theme, “Immersed in the Spirit of Service.” The celebration began with worship services at Starlight Baptist Church, where the Rev. Julian K. Woods is pastor.

Lady Judith Washington, Founders’ Day chairman, Area One Membership Chairman and Induction Chairman, gave a brief history of the organization and introduced the chapter, its sponsored group, Top Teens of America and the chapter’s own special guest, Josep Sorrells.

The Christian Service Award recipient was announced by Lady Raven Williams, chapter president, to Betty Jenkins of the church. Jenkins is a faithful, lifelong member of Starlight Baptist Church. Since becoming a member, she has selflessly given her time and service in many capacities including work with the Sunday School Ministry, Seniors Ministry, Vacation Bible School, Ushers Ministry, Women’s Ministry and church administration. She has and continues to provide countless acts of kindness without boundaries and limitations. She is recognized as one who always offer support to fellow members through encouraging words either in person or by phone. Her dedication does not just rest within the walls of the church, she also serves with the Evangelism and Outreach team which extends support into the community, and has been on several mission trips outside of the United States. Her personal goal is one of reaching, seeking, and serving. Jenkins is the mother of Reginald (Flori) Jenkins, Sheila (Mitchell) Sykes, and Veronica (Michael) Williams; and has 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Following worship, the group resumed its celebration during a luncheon at The Governor’s Mansion. Lady Washington presented the honorees who were escorted by Teen Austin Dellafosse and TTA President Lauryn Sweet who also introduced guest speaker, Sorrells. He is a Dallas native, spiritual and motivational speaker, community servant, mentor and leader. The former local and national TTA officer is currently a senior, political science major at Morehouse College in Atlanta. Praising the chapter’s rich 45-year history during his talk, Sorrells affirmed, “I am reminded that ‘she changes everything!’ For the last almost half a century, you have uplifted, empowered and motivated teenagers from all different backgrounds, creeds and religions. In a real sense, this group of women changes everything!”

Lady Annie L. Mouton, Area One Southeast Cluster Coordinator, co-membership chairman, and Lake Charles Chapter chaplain, introduced the local speaker, Top Lady of the Year, Gwendolyn Garner.

A graduate of the former University of Southwestern Louisiana, she serves as recording secretary, audit chair and on numerous committees. Her career spans from hospital administrative roles in Southwest Louisiana to 30 years with the State of Louisiana’s Children and Family Services Division. She retired in 2009 as administrator for Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes.

Lady Garner memberships include Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc./Lake Charles Alumnae Chapter, Black Heritage Festival Scholarship Committee, and Mount Calvary Baptist Church, where she serves in many capacities. Garner reminded Ladies that its 45 year history is realized because of togetherness which reaches heights no one can attain alone. She noted, “My offering of service is not for profit or gain, but to stand for what is right, to be a light of truth and to be kind. This, I define as togetherness — as we continue to cultivate leaders, touch lives and influence positive changes to impact our community.” She is the wife of Eugene J., and mother of Dr. Mario J. Garner.

Jenkins, the Christian Service Award recipient, was presented a plaque by Lady Demetria Boutte who was followed by Lady Theresa Garrett, TLOD first vice president, who presented Emily Ashworth the Community Service Award. A McNeese graduate with an Associates Degree in Nursing, she began community service during her childhood with her parents through work in the church. In 2012, while working for Christus School-Based Health Clinic, Ashworth, a Zumba certified instructor, volunteered to lead an after-school exercise program for teachers. As the city of Lake Charles’ Wellness Nurse Coordinator, she served as the first African-American nurse in the wellness program educating employees and community members on their path to wellness and working with the Mayor’s office to coordinate community health events. As Community Host Group Lead of the Remote Area Medical’s Operation Healing and Restoration event, over 500 residents were able to receive free medical, dental and vision care. A member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church, she serves in numerous capacities, in several state health-related positions, and holds memberships including with the National Association of University Women, the Republican Women of Southwest Louisiana and Healthier Southwest Louisiana Executive Board. She is married to Gil Sr., and they are the parents of Allonah and Gil Jr., all of Lake Charles.

The President’s Legacy Award was presented to Lady Ivy Mouton by Lady Williams who applauded Mouton’s dedication in keeping to the vision of the founders. A 42-year member and current chapter treasurer, she has served in various chapter roles including president, treasurer, and financial secretary, and has chaired various committees. In Area One, she has served as recording secretary, chaplain, and as chair of numerous committees. A former Calcasieu Parish School System educator, she is a member of Evergreen Baptist Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc./Lake Charles Alumnae Chapter, the Calcasieu Parish Unit of Retired Teachers, and serves as director of the Area Wide Baptist Youth Week Observance. Lady Mouton and her late husband, Alfread, have one child, Avonda (Dr. Marius M.) Commodore, and one grandchild, Zander M.

A table-top display chronicling the organization’s rich past and significant accomplishments was created by Ladies Chester Moses and Thelma Hargrove. It featured pictures, newspaper articles, clippings and artifacts which narrated and highlighted the works and efforts by chapter organizers, the late Lady Rupert R. Clemons and the late Lady Thelma C. LaPice, and 18 charter members. Collectively, they laid the foundation for an effective and thriving local TLOD organization.

Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., is a 55-year-old national professional and humanitarian community service organization working to improve the quality of life for all mankind.

The organization places special emphasis on service to youth, improving the lives of senior citizens and enhancing the status of women. It strives to improve the community and environment through beautification efforts while working in partnership with other area entities. Top Teens of America youth are taught the value and importance of community service and how to become more competitive in today’s society. Lady Drema Woldman is national president; Lady Harnell Williams is Area One Director; Lady Loretta Gallien is Second vice president, and Lady Gloria E. Jackson is chapter reporter.