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OUR DISTINGUISHED 2024 SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
Meryl Kennedy
Meryl, CEO and founder of 4Sisters Rice in Mer Rouge, LA, draws inspiration from her family's deep ties to Louisiana rice farming. The journey began in 1964 when her father established the family farm, laying the foundation for a lasting legacy.
Driven by a desire to share their story and passion, Meryl and her sisters founded 4Sisters Rice, aiming to provide high-quality organic and natural rice products while promoting environmental sustainability. Meryl prioritizes sustainability in every aspect of production, collaborating with local suppliers and family farmers who share their vision. The company ensures full traceability, allowing consumers to trace each grain from farm to table.
Meryl's commitment extends beyond business; she views her role with a sense of responsibility to family, land, and consumers. Her leadership sets a new standard for the rice industry, emphasizing that rice is more than a commodity—it's a story, a legacy, and a commitment to excellence.
Meryl and her husband, Peyton Farr, reside in Mer Rouge with their three small children, Elton, Kennedy and Byrdie. In her spare time, she enjoys mentoring young women pursuing careers in agriculture and speaking to local civic organizations. Most of all, she values traveling with her family and spending time with close friends.
Driven by a desire to share their story and passion, Meryl and her sisters founded 4Sisters Rice, aiming to provide high-quality organic and natural rice products while promoting environmental sustainability. Meryl prioritizes sustainability in every aspect of production, collaborating with local suppliers and family farmers who share their vision. The company ensures full traceability, allowing consumers to trace each grain from farm to table.
Meryl's commitment extends beyond business; she views her role with a sense of responsibility to family, land, and consumers. Her leadership sets a new standard for the rice industry, emphasizing that rice is more than a commodity—it's a story, a legacy, and a commitment to excellence.
Meryl and her husband, Peyton Farr, reside in Mer Rouge with their three small children, Elton, Kennedy and Byrdie. In her spare time, she enjoys mentoring young women pursuing careers in agriculture and speaking to local civic organizations. Most of all, she values traveling with her family and spending time with close friends.
Jane Jenkins Herlong
Jane Jenkins Herlong is a globally acclaimed Southern humorist, Certified Speaking Professional, and Hall of Fame inductee. With her unique blend of humor, storytelling, and award-winning singing, Jane empowers audiences to embrace the MINDSET OF ACHIEVEMENT. A versatile entertainer, she has graced prestigious stages worldwide, sharing laughter and life lessons.
As an accomplished Professional Singer, Songwriter, Comedian, and Recording Artist, Jane's performances have resonated from Radio City Music Hall to SiriusXM. She has shared stages with icons like Dr. Charles Stanley and General Colin Powell. In addition to her stage prowess, Jane is an award-winning and best-selling author of four books, including "Rhinestones on My Flip-Flops" and "Bury Me with My Pearls," weaving timeless lessons with Southern charm.
Proud wife and mother, Jane resides on the family peach farm in South Carolina, embodying the spirit of a recovering beauty queen and former Miss South Carolina.
As an accomplished Professional Singer, Songwriter, Comedian, and Recording Artist, Jane's performances have resonated from Radio City Music Hall to SiriusXM. She has shared stages with icons like Dr. Charles Stanley and General Colin Powell. In addition to her stage prowess, Jane is an award-winning and best-selling author of four books, including "Rhinestones on My Flip-Flops" and "Bury Me with My Pearls," weaving timeless lessons with Southern charm.
Proud wife and mother, Jane resides on the family peach farm in South Carolina, embodying the spirit of a recovering beauty queen and former Miss South Carolina.
Dr. Mike Strain
Dr. Mike Strain, Commissioner of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, is a dedicated advocate for Louisiana's agriculture and forestry. Since taking office, Strain has prioritized sustainable practices, technological innovation, and community collaboration. His initiatives address challenges faced by farmers and foresters, positioning Louisiana as a leader in these industries. He is committed to working with the farmer and forester, producer and processor and all others to ensure our food is safe, our fiber production among the best and our animals strong and healthy.
Billy Nungesser
Billy Nungesser is the 54th Lieutenant Governor of the state of Louisiana. He was elected in 2015 and took office in January of 2016. From July 2019 to July 2020, Nungesser served as Chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association, a professional association which charts issues and work to be pursued by the second-highest ranking officials in all 50 states and U.S. territories.
Today Billy is second-in-command in the executive branch and Louisiana's ambassador as Commissioner of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. From natural disasters to promoting our great state...Billy Nungesser is a man for all of Louisiana.
Today Billy is second-in-command in the executive branch and Louisiana's ambassador as Commissioner of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. From natural disasters to promoting our great state...Billy Nungesser is a man for all of Louisiana.
CHECK OUT OUR 2024 TOURS
Angola State Penitentiary & Farm
We invite you to join us on a tour of the Angola State Penitentiary & Farm. This unique location is not just a correctional facility, but also a thriving agricultural hub for corn, soybeans & cattle.
As part of this experience, you'll dive deep into the history of this site, exploring the grounds through a riding tour, as well as visiting the Historical Red Hat Cell Block, Percheron Horse Barn, and Museum.
Your tour will conclude with a presentation from PAWS – Prisoners Assisting Warriors Services. Witness the dedication of this program as it works towards training service dogs for our Louisiana Veterans, adding a layer of compassion to the narrative of Angola State Penitentiary!
As part of this experience, you'll dive deep into the history of this site, exploring the grounds through a riding tour, as well as visiting the Historical Red Hat Cell Block, Percheron Horse Barn, and Museum.
Your tour will conclude with a presentation from PAWS – Prisoners Assisting Warriors Services. Witness the dedication of this program as it works towards training service dogs for our Louisiana Veterans, adding a layer of compassion to the narrative of Angola State Penitentiary!
Bayou Petals Flower Farm
Join us for a Floral Arrangement Workshop! This tour-alternative will be great for people that want to get a later start on Thursday. We’ll begin with lunch around noon and follow with the floral arrangement workshop. Since it'll be hosted at the Riverfront Center, no bus ride is required.
The workshop will be led by Rachel Duncan, the talented florist from Bayou Petals Flower Farm. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for flowers, Rachel will lead you through the art of floral arrangement, sharing insider tips and tricks to make your creation truly exceptional.
Everything you need for the workshop will be provided, from an array of fresh and vibrant flowers to essential tools and materials. Rachel will not only demonstrate the techniques but also engage you in hands-on activities. Learn the secrets behind creating visually stunning arrangements and discover the joy of working with nature's most beautiful blooms. PLUS, each participant will go home with their unique and personalized arrangement.
The workshop will be led by Rachel Duncan, the talented florist from Bayou Petals Flower Farm. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for flowers, Rachel will lead you through the art of floral arrangement, sharing insider tips and tricks to make your creation truly exceptional.
Everything you need for the workshop will be provided, from an array of fresh and vibrant flowers to essential tools and materials. Rachel will not only demonstrate the techniques but also engage you in hands-on activities. Learn the secrets behind creating visually stunning arrangements and discover the joy of working with nature's most beautiful blooms. PLUS, each participant will go home with their unique and personalized arrangement.
Kennedy Rice Mill
In addition to featuring Meryl Kennedy from 4Sisters Rice as one of our distinguished speakers this year, we've also coordinated an exclusive tour of their mill: Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC in Mer Rouge, LA. 🤩 Visitors will witness the use of cutting-edge milling equipment, showcasing some of the industry's most advanced technology. The mill is dedicated to serving farmers and existing customers across the United States, with an emphasis on reaching out to new markets.
Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC plays a crucial role in meeting the needs of rice farmers in Louisiana and South Arkansas, thanks to its unique technological advancements. By leveraging this innovative approach, the mill supports Louisiana rice farmers in maintaining their status as leaders in producing high-quality agricultural products for global consumption.
The tour offers a comprehensive look at the four key stations of the rice processing journey: the Dryer, where it all begins, followed by Milling, Packaging, and the final stage, Shipping. Experience the seamless integration of advanced equipment as Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC continues to uphold its commitment to excellence. This tour promises an enlightening exploration of the rice production process, where tradition harmonizes with cutting-edge technology. Join them for an immersive experience at Kennedy Rice Mill!
Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC plays a crucial role in meeting the needs of rice farmers in Louisiana and South Arkansas, thanks to its unique technological advancements. By leveraging this innovative approach, the mill supports Louisiana rice farmers in maintaining their status as leaders in producing high-quality agricultural products for global consumption.
The tour offers a comprehensive look at the four key stations of the rice processing journey: the Dryer, where it all begins, followed by Milling, Packaging, and the final stage, Shipping. Experience the seamless integration of advanced equipment as Kennedy Rice Mill, LLC continues to uphold its commitment to excellence. This tour promises an enlightening exploration of the rice production process, where tradition harmonizes with cutting-edge technology. Join them for an immersive experience at Kennedy Rice Mill!
Gonsoulin Land & Catte
Join us on a tour led by veterinarian Shannon Gonsoulin and explore the rich heritage of this family-run ranch. Gonsoulin Family has been cultivating a legacy of cattle raising since 1770.
Dr. Shannon Gonsoulin recognized the growing demand for natural and organic products in 2005, leading to the certification of Gonsoulin Land and Cattle as Louisiana's sole registered grass-fed meat producer with the American Grass Fed Association in 2006. Witness the approach of working cattle on horseback, creating a low-stress environment that prioritizes the well-being of their animals. This method not only ensures superior beef quality but also conserves precious natural resources, reflecting their dedication to sustainability.
Join us as Dr. Gonsoulin shares his wealth of knowledge on cattle and horse health and maintenance. The tour will conclude at their Farm Store, where you can browse locally produced meats, unique seasonings, and distinctive gifts.
Dr. Shannon Gonsoulin recognized the growing demand for natural and organic products in 2005, leading to the certification of Gonsoulin Land and Cattle as Louisiana's sole registered grass-fed meat producer with the American Grass Fed Association in 2006. Witness the approach of working cattle on horseback, creating a low-stress environment that prioritizes the well-being of their animals. This method not only ensures superior beef quality but also conserves precious natural resources, reflecting their dedication to sustainability.
Join us as Dr. Gonsoulin shares his wealth of knowledge on cattle and horse health and maintenance. The tour will conclude at their Farm Store, where you can browse locally produced meats, unique seasonings, and distinctive gifts.
Sponsors
A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS
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CONTACT
CONTACT US
For other questions and comments email LAwomeninag@gmail.com
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