Antoinette Harrell Encourage Genealogist to Donate Their Collections

Harrell donating 2017 collection

My family roots run deep in the Florida Parishes. When I first started researching my family history in the local libraries and university, I couldn't find any records, photographs, and any other genealogy resources. I know that my family has been in the parishes since the founding of the parishes and contributed to the society they lived in. 

They owned their land, they built their one-room schools. African American people in the Florida parishes worked hard to own and maintain their own farms and some owned their own business. They served in the military and not one monument with their names listed can be found throughout the Florida Parishes.  "Why wasn't their contributions documented?" As I moved forward to pursue my own genealogy research as planned. I started collecting photographs, documents, artifacts and genealogical records from other African American families in the Florida Parishes, I had to find a repository to deposit the items collected. 

Bennett donating family files

In 2012, I called the office of Samuel Hyde, Jr. Ph.D., Professor of History and Director, Center for Southeast La. Studies/Archives to set up an appointment with him to talk with him about the rich collections. After talking with Dr. Hyde, he informed me that he would be happy to archive the collections, and how   important it is to the history of the Florida Parishes. The collection  help fill in the missing pieces of history in the Florida Parishes as it relates to African American people. 

I asked my colleague Bernice Alexander Bennett a Maryland resident, who is the host of "Research at the National Archives and Beyond," author, genealogist, family historian to consider donating her family papers and research to the Center for Southeast La. Studies/Archives. She agreed to donate her collection to the center.  Bennett spends countless of hours researching civil war records for Louisiana color troops at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Another genealogy researcher named Stephanie Quiette-Addison Martin, spent twenty-five years  researching and documenting the history of African Americans in the Florida Parishes, Martin has submitted work to Afrigeneas and to Christine's Genealogy website. She is also published in the "Louisiana Genealogical Register." Martin offered to donate her extensive collection to the Center for Southeast La Studies/Archives. She has collected over 10,000 names. Martin is the Manager of the African American Archives for  Louisiana

Karran Harper Royal, co-host of "Nurturing Our Roots Television Talk Show," and Executive Director of the Georgetown University 272. Royal is a native of New Orleans and talks about the impact of Georgetown. 272 slaves were sold to benefit Georgetown University.

Words can't explain how delighted and happy I am to hear that these noted and reowned genealogists  and family historians will follow the lead and donate their collections to the center.  

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. 

Town of Kentwood Public Officials Serving Flood Victims

Mayor Irma T. Gordon
Town of Kentwood 

Thousands of residents of Tangipahoa Parish were affected by flood waters this past weekend. Tangipahoa Parish is just one of the nineteen parishes that has been declared a natural disaster area by the federal government. 

Several people loss their life and thousands loss their homes and­― all their material possessions. This past March some people who live on the North End of the Parish had to seek shelter from the flood. Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller said that about 5000 homes in the parish were flooded this past March. 

Today the Town of Kentwood elected officials, town employees and volunteers gave out clothes, cleaning supplies, shoes, personal items to people in need. Mayor Irma T. Gordon was there with Councilman Gary Callahan and  Chief of Police Michael Kazeronni issuing the items and water.

Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

I made one call to Constable Lemmie Chapman III and asked him to pick up some items to bring to the center. He didn't hesitate to come by and get the cleaning supplies. Our elected officials are truly public servants and the people of Kentwood really appreciate all the services they provide. 

All the volunteers worked so well organizing everything for the people. The community came together to help others in need. Many volunteered their time and other made donation to the town for today's distribution. The items were neatly organized on the tables outside and other donations was steadily coming in. Talking with some of the people who had loss what little they had since the last flood brought tears to my eyes. Most people are coping with the loss again months later. "What makes it a little easier is knowing that others cares!" And they're willing to help.

Town of Kentwood Elected Officials Serving the People
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Kentwood Mayor Goes Beyond the Call of Duty

There is much that can be said about Irma T. Gordon, Mayor of the Town of Kentwood. A former educator in Tangipahoa Parish School System, former councilwoman, mother, sister, and friend. She rolls up her sleeves and works hard in her community. You can find her in her office five days a week working hard to improve our town.

She puts children first and is concerned for our youth. Whatever she can do to help them, she will do. She shows the same concern for the citizens in our community. She is embarking upon the second year in office and her work is visible.

Mayor Gordon greets everyone with a warm smile and hugs. She makes everyone feel welcome and she treats everyone with respect. Born and raised in the Town of Kentwood, Louisiana., It's not that many people that she doesn't know. If there is an event taking place in town and you invite Mayor Gordon, she will do her best to attend.

Under her leadership the Town of Kentwood will see growth. Most mayors in rural towns in the Parish of Tangipahoa aren't full time employees. Mayor Gordon goes beyond the call of duty to serve our town and it's citizens. Although serving the community is nothing new to Mayor Gordon she  served as the a councilwoman for several terms, politics isn't new to her.

Empowering Youth Through Entrepreneurship

Picking Fresh Blueberries

Summer is here and kids are thinking about vacations, swimming and other fun activities. But for kids like Connor, Carter, Chase and "Q" they're thinking about earning money.  This is a great time to teach business and entrepreneurial education to our youth. It will help them to understand money and how it works at an early age.  Often we hear parents tell their kids to go to college to get a good paying job. Today, more parents are talking with their children about starting their own business and stimulate economic thinking skills in their children. Teaching them about saving, investing and spending.

I met "Q" and his father several weeks ago cutting lawn in the neighborhood. I was deeply impressed with Q, at the age of nine years old he was riding the zero turn lawn mower. With his father working side by side with him teaching him what to do, and instilling in his son something he wish that he would have learned at an early age in life. Not only was his father teaching him, but it also help to develop a deeper father and son relationship.  Entrepreneurship education can offer youth financial solutions and well as help them to manage their finances as adults.

"Q" Lawn Care Service

My three grandsons, can be found early in the morning picking blueberries to fill their daily orders. I'm teaching them the marketing side of the business. They're learning some very important and valuable lessons about being in business for themselves. Oftentimes, people will support them because they are kids and they're trying to earn money through self-employment opportunities.

I strongly believe that we should instill in our children the importances of earning money to help them accomplish their goals. If we give them everything they ask for without earning it. We must ask ourselves what lessons are we teaching them. If you live in the Town of Kentwood and would like your lawn to be cut and maintain, please look for "Q" lawn services.

If you like the taste of freshly picked blueberries, place your order today and Connor, Chase and Carter, will pick them and deliver them to your door. All the boys have a goal that they want to achieve this summer and we want to support them by supporting our youth.

There is so many wonderful skills they will learn through entrepreneurship education— like how to

Patronizing each other

organized, communication, problem-solving, team works, money management and it will enhance their social skills.  At the end of their jobs, the boys patronized each other which is a very important lesson in itself.

I'm so proud of the boys for working and being creative to earn money. These lessons will follow them throughout life. Many kids have talents that can be package and marketed for sale or service.

All She Wanted Was A Front Porch

Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Laura Coleman went blind in her early childhood. She later contacted the measles and lost her hearing. I can't imagine being blind and deaf. That what Laura face every day of her life. There is over 50, 000 deaf people that live in Louisiana.  In 2014 the Tangipahoa Parish 911 Center began using Smart911 for people who are hard of hearing. I'm starting to  researching programs that can help Laura have a better quality of life.  It will provide me the  opportunity to learn about the resources that's offered to people like Laura who live in Tangipahoa Parish. 

Laura's sister Ruthie stomps her feet when she wants to get Laura's attention. Laura feels the vibration for the floor and she knows that Ruthie is trying to get her attention. Ruthie promised her mother on her dying bed that she would take care of Laura and that is exactly what the entire family does. 

Her sister and niece told us how Laura likes to sit on the front porch and get some fresh air.  She hadn't been able to do that because the front porch had deteriorated and the family had to take it down due to safety reasons. During an interview with her sister Ruthie, I asked her what would she like to see a change in her home? "I would like to a front porch for my sister Laura," said Ruthie; she can't come outside and sit on the front porch like she use to. I guess I was still in shock that all she wanted was a front porch for her blind and deaf sister. 

I walked over to talk with  Wessam Albadry documentary and social photography photojournalist to tell him what her request was and he said he would help. The other volunteers all said that they would help out. Volunteers from the Town of Kentwood and San Francisco, California immediately started brainstorming to see what they could do to help. Some people donated the funds for materials and other donated their time and skills to build Laura a front porch.

Constable Lemmie Chapman III didn't hesitate to help. He picked up the supplies at the local hardware to build the porch for someone with special needs. Other came along and gave him a helping hand. The men in Coleman Place came after work to help.  It was strange to see Wessam put down the camera and pick up work tools to help build  Laura a porch. I'm so happy for Laura now,  she  can sit outside and enjoys the fresh cool morning and evening breeze.

Thank you, Constable Chapman, Wessam Al-badry, Wallace Gilmore and the other volunteers that to give Laura a front porch. Your kindness and generosity made a difference. It couldn't have happened without people like you.

During an interview with Constable Chapman, you could see the tears in his eyes after watching Laura come out and sit on the front porch. He made a difference in someone's life who really needed it. Although this home is out of his district but helping them was in his heart. We're  proud to have caring people like him and all the volunteers who served others.

Constable Chapman believe in being a public servant to his community. He has been in office less then two years but he is making a great impact on the community.  One more heart was gathered through this mission and we are here to help those in need.

Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Left: Wallace Gilmore, Ruthie Coleman and Constable Lemmie Chapman III.








Copyright © 2016 by Antoinette Harrell

Emory University Student Visit the Town of Kentwood, Louisiana

A Reading Corner setup at Ebony Beauty
Supply in Kentwood, LA

Over the past three days, I have visited the communities of Roseland, Fluker, and Tangipahoa and seen first-hand the rampant poverty that affects the people who live there each and every day,"said Schoderbek. The towns are sparsely populated, and the majority of the residents lack the necessary skills for employment. The rural nature of these communities presents a serious challenge in providing them with the necessary services for community enrichment. Though the issues these areas face are extensive and deep-rooted, William is confident that with the ingenuity of creative minds, solutions can be developed to solve these problems.

While attending Bellarmine College Preparatory School in San Jose, CA., Schoderbek organized two immersion trips to the Mississippi Delta. Giving out books, clothes, gardening, assisting with setting up a Reading Center in Webb, Ms., Schoderbek, along with nine other students and two instructors joined Gathering of Hearts volunteers and co-founder Antoinette Harrell to help serve those in need. This year the students will travel to Louisiana to do immersion work in Tangipahoa Parish with great focus on the north end of the parish.

Customer at Ebony Beauty Supply borrowing a book

Once he arrived in Kentwood, Louisiana he provided tutoring to students on how to apply for scholarships, look for a university to attend. While answering all the questions for students who attend High School in Tangipahoa School District. He also assist Harrell in setting up a reading corner in Ebony Beauty Supply in Kentwood, Louisiana. The next day school supplies were donated to both O.W. Dillion Elementary School and Kentwood Magnet High School.

William enjoy giving back to the community. He understand how important it is to have community enrichment resources for the youth and the community. There isn't one community resource center on the north end of the parish. After school programs and summer enrichment programs can be the road map to help students in the community achieve their goals. Williams in now a student at Emory University in Georgia. However, he left a legacy at Bellarmine College Preparatory School.

Rochell Bates, Principal of Kentwood Magnet High School
receiving donations from Gathering of Hearts and William.

"I'm more than show I'll visit Tangipahoa Parish again," he said with a smile. I was delighted to hear that he wanted to return.
Through social media William can see the work that the student will do this year in Tangipahoa Parish.

Although William will not be join the group this year, I know he will do something this summer to help someone else.

Student from Kentwood, Louisiana Travel International

Damarious Ard

Kentwood, La- It seem like it was just yesterday that Damarious Ard graduated from Kentwood High School. Upon his graduation from Kentwood High School class of  2011, he knew that he wanted to attend a community college for culinary arts.

Damarious enrolled in Northshore Technical Community College in Hammond, La.,  He will be graduating with the class of 2016. Ard was determined to work and finish his  community college classes. It has been said that hard work will pay off.

He will travel to Portugal, Spain and Morocco, Africa.  Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Its oceanside influences lots of great tasting grilled dishes, music, and cultural experiences. Morocco, a North African country border in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Traveling with six other students and his culinary arts instructor. Ard will attend a cooking class in Madrid. The group will depart New Orleans this week. They'll be joined  by a group of eight people from Bilbao.

In Portugal, they will be immerse in Spanish culture. The group will taste a lot of delicious foods. There are over one hundred different types of cheese in Spain. To name a few; Gazacho, Salmorejo, Manchego, Croquetas. "We can't forget the Spanish Wine!' Now, that he is the legal age to taste some of the fine tasting wines that Spain has to offer I know he will enjoy.

Chef Ard preparing or Hors d'oeurves

Words can't express how proud I am of Damarious. When we first moved to Kentwood my son Bernard made friends with Damarious, Averi, Daniel, Roy, Anthony and Al.  Today they're all men and they are following their dreams.  They're very respectful young men that we can be proud of.

I got a chance to taste some of Chef Ard cooking at the political campaign for Tangiphaoa Parish President Robby Miller this past year. "You talk about finger licking good, oh boy!" everybody went back for seconds.

Thank you Damarious for sharing your dreams, goals and admiration for the culinary arts with me.  Please take plenty photographs to share with everyone at home. We would like to hear you speak about your trip and your career at the local libraries and Kentwood High School this coming fall.

I know you'll have so much to share and talk about. This is an awesome opportunity for you to experience traveling to other country. Its great to hear that you didn't allow others to persuade you not to go. Spread your wings and fly and like an eagle. Its a big world for you to explore, new people to meet, taste new foods. This is only the beginning for you and there are better things on the way.

Most importantly thank you for allowing me to be on of  your mentors. Traveling and learning his is part of your educational path that extends nationally and internationally.

Wishing you all the best!






Copyright © 2016 by Antoinette Harrell

Kentwood, Louisiana Celebrate Happy Earth Day

Kentwood Elected Officials and Town Employees
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Happy Earth day is a day to clean up and beautify your community.  We all should take part in taking care of our plant  by picking up trash and litter or perhaps plant flowers and trees. Kentwood residents met at the Kentwood Community Center ready to spruce up the town. After the residents were signed in, they were issued a plastic garbage bag, gloves, and tee shirts.

This year's Happy Earth day clean up was organized by Yolanda Callaghan a city employee for the Town of Kentwood.

Kentwood Mayor, Irma T. Gordon and several town council members joined in. Councilman Terrell Hookfin, Councilman Gary Callihan, and Councilwoman Irma Clines were there with their sleeves rolled up ready to work. Many of the town employees worked sided by side with the residents picking up litter.  Constable Lemmie Chapman III, is a strong voice in the Kentwood community picking up trash and litter on our streets and highways were there picking up trash as usually.

Constable Lemmie Chapman III
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

There has been 46 environmental victories since the first earth day.  The first earth day was on April 22, 1970. 20 million people across the United States took to the street to raise awareness about our environment. Today, Kentwood residents came out to be a  part of keeping our town clean. Several children joined the Happy Earth day clean up.

It's never to early to teach children not to be a litter bug. We should teach them not to throw candy and other snack wrappers on the ground, and in our beautiful lakes and ponds that could be harmful to the wildlife. Beside having a clean community make everyone who live in the community feel good about their community. One of the main issues that the constable pointed out is the number of tires they are picking up that is being discarded on the side of the highway and streets in our community. Please beware that if you are caught throwing litter, trash and tires on the streets and highway. You will receive a ticket and may have to do community hours picking up litter.