HAROLD KELLER

Life is but a “vapor” This past Saturday, I was honored to be the master of ceremonies at CASA’s first annual gala. CASA stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocate. CASA’s are trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to serve as a child’s voice in court. CASA’s represent the best interest of abused or neglected children in court and social services proceedings. CASA volunteers give special representation to abused children so they will not fall through the cracks of over-worked and under-funded juvenile justice and child welfare systems. The function was billed as St. John the Baptist Parish judges’ appreciation evening. The honorees were Judge Thomas Daley, Judge Madeline Jasmine, Judge Mary Hotard-Becnel and Judge J. Sterling Snowdy. School board member Patrick Sanders is the president of the non-profit group founded by Druetta Jenkins-Borne, the executive director. The guest speaker was Sally Ann Roberts. The setting was nice, the decorations were pretty, the meal was good, but Ms. Roberts was great! Her spirit set the tone for the evening. Her speech was directed to being a servant and making a difference. It was filled with God’s spirit that encouraged everyone to make a difference in their community. She said that people will be more impressed with our walk, than our talk. Ms. Roberts also said that life is but a vapor (here today and gone tomorrow) and that we should make our journey in life meaningful by touching others for God’s kingdom. Sally Ann co-anchors the Eyewitness Morning News on Channel 4 with Eric Paulsen, which is the highest-rated local morning newscast. She also hosts Our Generation in Saturday mornings. Our Generation is a teen-talk show that gives young people a forum to showcase their talents and gifts and an opportunity to voice their views that impact their lives. In 1994, along with Cathy Harris, Sally Ann Roberts co-founded Each One Save One, a non-profit mentoring network that operates in several parishes across the viewing area. In 1998, she authored the book, “Going Live: An Anchorwoman Reports Good News,” one woman’s spiritual journey. All proceeds from the sale of “Going Live” go to support Each One Save One. When asked to what she attributes her success, she says, “I give all honor, glory and praise to God.” Ms. Roberts was an articulate speaker and a very pretty lady, but what stood out the most was that she displayed the joy of the Lord, which evidently is her strength. I thank God that He allowed me to be a very small part of an exciting, spirit-filled evening. HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477.