Donated Laptop Computer for Kentwood High School Senior

Mr. Rochell Bates, Tatyanna Robinson and Antoinette Harrell
Photo Credit: Angela Bates

Kentwood High School Senior Tatyanna Robinson received a laptop computer today from Bellarmine College Preparatory School and Gathering of Hearts. Gathering of Hearts Co-founder Antoinette Harrell wanted to donate a computer to a student who work hard to excel and maintain good grades. 

Robinson is planning to go to school for nursing after graduating from high school. Harrell had one request for Robinson, she asked her to give back to someone once she becomes successful. Without hesitation Robinson agreed to help someone else.

Rochell Bates, Principal and Guidance Counselor Barbara English chose Robinson, because she work so hard and is determined to beat all odds. Robinson was surprised and speechless for a moment. Giving back to our youth is very important.  Three laptop computers are going to be donated to the Kentwood Community Center for after school enrichment. 

Last week eight computers were donated to the St. Helena Multi Purpose Center for after school enrichment. The board of directors were excited to get the computers. They're planning to get the internet service next week. After school Enrichment Centers are needed in rural communities that can assist with homework and enrichment resources and programs to expand learning opportunities in technology, the arts and tutoring.

Adult Coloring at the Council on Aging

Yvonne Hill McGray and Charles Bennett

Today I went to visit the Council on Aging in the Town of Kentwood. I met so many wonderful people with great stories to tell. From quilting to preserving vegetables and fruit. So many of them have a lifetime of experiences and stories to share with me. 

Mrs. Helen comes from a long line of quilters in her family. She asked me if I knew what rice custard is? I told her my mother use to make rice custard for dessert when I was a child. What about cornbread gravy she asked? That was my first time hearing about the cornbread dressing. I can't wait to hear her oral history stories. One of the other ladies told me she spoke french. She said her family origin traces back to Lafourche Parish, Louisiana. 

Pam Lewis
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Some were coloring to release the stresses of life. Many people think that coloring is for children, well things have changed and some adults are finding enjoyment and relaxation in coloring. Yvonne McGray introduced adult coloring to the center. At the time when she was introducing coloring in the center, it wasn't received well. "Oh no!" Yvonne said, no one in the center wanted to color, but they quickly changed their minds. Now everyone proud display books of beautiful completed artwork. 

They all have their choice of coloring supplies, ranging from coloring markers to coloring pencils. Now, some of the elders are fining joy in coloring.  Pam Lewis said it's therapy for her. She suffers with arthritis in her hands and fingers and she said that coloring helps relieve the pain. " I'm color blind," said Charles.Their beautiful adult coloring is displayed on the wall. 

The local library feature their coloring art work on display as well. Please stop by to see their coloring art display.