A child's heart is filled with art

Kentwood Summer Campers Art Exhibit
Jordan Wilkerson
Photo Credit: ANTOINETTE HARRELL

The benefits of art for children are numerous. We should encourage each child's creativity in the same way we encourage their other academic abilities. Art education has declined in schools across the country over the past few decades. This decline has had significant consequences for students, including reduced opportunities for creative expression and critical thinking. We must find creative ways to inspire our youth in the arts

One solution is to integrate art projects into other subjects, such as using drawings to visualize scientific concepts or historical events. Schools could also partner with local artists and art organizations to provide workshops and special programs. It was years ago that a group of students and instructors from the Bellarmine College Preparatory School in San Jose, California volunteered to assist Gathering of Hearts in bringing art to the little campers here in Kentwood. The camper's artwork was proudly displayed at Kentwood City Hall followed by a reception. 

It is possible for young artists to earn an income as artists.  Aeltia, for example, began experimenting with paint before she was able to walk. At the age of twenty-two months, she exhibited her first piece of art in an Australian gallery. At the age of four, she held her first solo exhibition at the Agora Gallery in the Chelsa neighborhood of New York City. In total, she sold three paintings for $27,000. 

Yes, children's art sells.  Consider activity books, coloring books, and picture books for children. It is common for authors to seek illustrators for children's books. Parents can  nurture their children's artistic talents by providing an encouraging and supportive environment. This will include supplying art materials, creating a dedicated space for creativity, and praising their efforts and creations. Museum visits, art classes, and celebrations of their artistic accomplishments are all important ways for parents to expose their children to various forms of art.

Artist Mia Marshall Art Instructor
Photo Credit: ANTOINETTE HARRELL

Make sure they have the tools they need and let their imaginations run wild. Their images are brought to 

life by the bold and beautiful colors.  They interpret the art in a way that you will enjoy listening to. Their interpretation adds layers of meaning and emotion, making the artwork resonate deeper on a deeper level. I have observed that it enhances their communication skills and self-confidence. I have transformed my children's and grandchildren's artwork into greeting cards, coasters, and more. These creations are shared with friends and family on special occasions, spreading joy and a personal touch. They are often given as gifts, making each a treasured keepsake.

Displaying their artwork at Kentwood City Hall and our local library will be a great place to display their artwork.  When I travel to other towns and cities, I look for local coffee shops. It is not uncommon to find artwork by local artists. The atmosphere in these coffee shops is often cozy and inviting, with a unique charm that reflects the local culture. Soft music plays in the background, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. The walls are adorned with vibrant paintings and photographs, creating a warm and creative environment. This is an idea that I know Mayor Gordon would embrace. 

Kudzu: The plant that ate the South

The infamous Kudzu
Kentwood, Louisiana 

Sometimes you will see vines covering trees and other vegetation in the South like a blanket. The vines are called kudzu. In the late 19th century, it was introduced from Asia. It soon became a real nuisance to the southern states. It will claim whatever is in its path, whether it's a tree, a telephone pole or bushes. Some researchers claim that kudzu covered millions of acres in the south. The southern landscape is under threat from these invasive vines. Kudzu grows rapidly and can smother native plants by blocking sunlight, which is essential for their survival. This leads to a significant reduction in biodiversity as native species are outcompeted and die off.  The dense mats of kudzu can alter soil composition and disrupt local ecosystems. Many people may not be aware of this. 

Yes, kudzu is here in Kentwood. Residents can help manage kudzu growth by regularly cutting back the vines to prevent them from spreading. They can also use herbicides specifically designed to target kudzu, although they should do so with caution to avoid harming other plants. Additionally, organizing community efforts to remove kudzu and restore native vegetation can be an effective long-term solution.

It is said that kudzu roots have 10 amazing health benefits. It has several additional names, including Japanese arrowroot,Chinese arrowroot, kudzu vine, kudzu roots, and kudzu herb. One of my friends from New York taught me how to make tea from kudzu leaves. To make kudzu tea, you start by harvesting fresh kudzu leaves, ensuring they are clean and free from pesticides. Next, wash the leaves thoroughly and steep them in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. Finally, strain the leaves out and enjoy your tea either hot or chilled, adding a bit of honey or lemon for extra flavor if desired. You can also use the flowers to make tea. 

Link to learn more about Kudzu: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kudzu-root

Sweet Home Baptist Church History

Old Sweet Home Baptist Church
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

In a humble way, the Sweet Home Baptist Church members began to shape their destiny by adhering to the great Biblical guidelines. "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6.

They believed in God and with this belief the first Church was organized in the late 1880s. The name Sweet Home could have been chosen because the first meetings took place in a home located northeast of town, on the east side of Cook Creek. Mrs. Hazel Kinzy recalls here step-father, Mr. Willis Bates, talking about the church being held in Buck Town in a field.  The Church existed for years in this location. Some of the pioneer families are buried there. Although a majority of those pioneers could neither read or write, they were possessed with and innate intelligence by which they were able to carry on successfully. It was such a faith and devotion that brought them through those trying years of the reconstruction era.

The building also served as a school consisting of primary through fourth grade. Mrs. Ruby Hookfin and Mrs. Inez Hookfin recall having to cross Cool Creek to attend School in the frame building. Mrs. Emma Buckhalter was the only teachers.

Some of the casualties from the terrible train wreck of November 1903 were buried in the Sweet Home Baptist Church area. In 1904 Hon. William H. Scanlon came to Kentwood as head bookkeeper for the Brooks-Scalon Mill. He arranged a building to be erected, with the debt to be satisfied by deducting $1. 00 from each church members employed at the mill. After sometime, the mill owner decided this would take too long and declared the bill paid in full for the building only. 

Sweet Home Baptist Church Cemetery

As time moved on the church, as we know it today, was organized by Reverend Mose Barnard in June
1910. Reverend S. Howard served as pastor from 1911-1916. His deacons were Benjamin Hook and J. B. Williams. In the mid 1920s the building was m moved west across Cool Creek. Older members remember the men using six or eight horses to skid it across the creek which took approximately six to eight weeks. During the time the church was in transit regular services were still held. After the building was moved to the west side, it continued to serve a dual purpose-church and school. With grades five and six added.  The Church ceased to be used as a school in 1940. 

Other pastors who have served are: Bradley (1916-1921), Bolivar (1921-1926), B. Robertson (1926-1935), Tobias (1935-1951), John Thompson (1951) to present. Second and fourth Sundays were service days, with Sunday School  being conducted every Sunday.

Thanks to Ms. Della Mae Wilson, a cash deed int eh amount of thirty-five dollars was paid to the Estate of J. H. Ellis for one acres of land. Witnesses were: Aquila Sibley, T.G. Womack, James H. Brumfield, Mrs. Emily. E. Owens, Mrs. M.K. Ellis, and Herbert Broyles, Notary Public.

The original frame building was first improved with concrete blocks, then bricked under the leadership of Reverend John Thompson. Interior improvements have also been made. We have come from torches to the comfort of electricity, air conditioning, drinking water fountains, carpets and comfortable pews. The pastor and choir have been robed, new collection plates and communion set have been purchased.

Deaconess who served are: Hazel Kinzy,  Grace Andrews, Vetra Brumfield, Emily Ware, Emma Taylor, Katie Brumfield, Beatrice Brumfield, and Annie Mae Strickland. 

Deacons have been: V.O. Brumfield, I.V. Kinzy, Willie Joe Ferdinand, Paul Robertson, Leo Andrews, Conrad Wyre, Wallace Brumfield, Ike Strickland and Henry Mercelous. Founding Father and Board of Trustees: Betty Perkins, Della Roman and Willis Bates.  The Willing Workers Club composed of women who raised the money to move the church. The Women's Amite River Baptist Association had its birth at our church in the year 1948. Two members, the late Lois Marcellus and Fochia V. Wilson has served as president of this organization. Elmira Wilkerson was one the first musicians in later years. Others who have followed are: Fannie Ard, Amos Addison, Yvonne Brumfield, Jerry Marcellus, Rev. Crosan, Rev. Michael Williams, Fannie and Emma McClendon. 

Sweet Home Baptist Church Cornerstone
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Source: Reprint from an article written and submitted by Mrs. Fochia V. Wilson

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church
Photo Courtesy: Randy Konzelman

St. Elizabeth Church is no longer in Kentwood. I remember when they were moving the old beautiful structure. It was said that they took it to Amite, Louisiana. I'm not sure, that was said. It use to be located at 404 Avenue C, Kentwood, LA. According to churcheslist.com, it was the only Catholic Church in Kentwood. 

The Home of Mary Kent Ellis

Piccolo, the Kentwood home of Mary Kent Ellis, who 100th birthday
was observed on January 1, 1969, and who is the same age as our parish.
Reprint from The Water Gardeners of Kentwood
Appendix B.
Historic Precedents

 

Orange Grove Church of God In Christ Church History

 

Orange Grove Church of God In Christ
Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Ellice Womack

In the years of Nineteen Hundred and Nineteen (1919), the first Church of God In Christ  in Kentwood was founded under he direction of the Holy Spirit by Evangelist and Sister Joshua Coleman and Elder Herbert Atkins. They conducted a revival and the Lord Move on the hearts of Sister Emma Carter, a past church mother and Emma Buckhalter, who once served as secretary, Emma Warren and Julia Fason who accepted Holiness at that time. 

Former pastors were Elder Soloman Baker, Seniors Lazard, who built and dedicated the fist Holy church here. Fred Cage and Dan Barnes. Others who served faithfully, Sister Malinda Bruce, Mattie Cook, Lula Carter, and Lela Hookfin, who served as deaconess and also church mother.  The oldest serving saints who served down through the years, Sisters Ellice Mae Buckhalter Womack, and Susie Marie Hookfin Gordon. Again, under the direction of the Holy Ghost, Elder Alonzo Richardson, Jr., and Sister Josephine Richardson were sent to be the humble servants here. 

The church has flourished under the dynamic leadership of Elder Richardson, and the leading of the Holy Ghost. In October 1970 this beautiful edifice was erected, and furnished with a piano and organ. This church at one time was called a she church. Since that time the membership has grown enormously. Five deacons were installed, Brother Charlie Womack, Brother Cain Wall, Brother Robert Ross, Brother Johnny McCray, Sr., and  Brother Sampson Dumans. Later Brother Theodore Dunn and Brother Jessie Brumfield were added to the board of deacons.

Three young men were called the ministry: Minister John Armstrong delivered his first sermon on March 12, 1978, Minister Jimmy Richardson, December 10, 1978, and Minister Robert Allen, January 14, 1979, and a missionary, Sister Barbara Jean Hookfin.

Two district meetings were held here, several auxiliary functions and vacation bible schools have been conducted. The first cornerstone in the history of the church was laid on April 26, 1981.  A bus was purchased September 21, 1981, which is used to transport person to Sunday School and church locally and to various meetings out of town.

An addition was made to the church on March of 1983. Other first time events were: purchasing and dedicating chores robes.  A back home worship service, recalling past services and records under the supervision of the Hookfin family. Last recording of this history, but by no means the least, a sacrificial feast for the saints, given by the pastor and his wife, Elder and Sister Richardson, with his family and friends assisting in the services.

Written and Submitted by Mrs. Ellice Womack

The History of Schilling Drug Company in Kentwood, LA

Schilling Drugs
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

In the small town of Osyka, Mississippi, three brothers were born and raised: Clyde Leroy, Frank Charles, and Henry Leonard Schilling.  It was in 1891 that Frank was born. In 1893, Clyde was born, and Leonard, affectionately called Eaph, in 1901.

Clyde worked in the Osyka Drug Store in 1908 as a soda clerk and a clean-up boy. He studied pharmacy at the Atlanta College of Pharmacy in Georgia for six grueling months and graduated in 1914. Frank, his brother, took the course and failed twice. Afterwards, he earned a degree in business administration. After attending college in Atlanta, Leonard received a degree from the college.

Clyde decided to expand his business into Kentwood. The two became business partners while Leonard served as their druggist.  There is no exact date, but many people recalled the early 1940s. In 1946, Leonard, Natalie, Bettye, and Fran moved to Kentwood and settled on Avenue H., a short distance from Main Street, where the drugstore is located.

The store was filled with beautiful cases which were originally built in the 1930s for a model drugstore. The wall shelving had inlaid wood carving with lots of glass. The high ceiling of the room was adorned with fans and lighting fixtures. Ice cream and cokes were served at marble top tables and wooden chairs. In the early days, Schilling Drug Co. had a soda fountain that the local shopper enjoyed.

Leonard carefully measured and weighed compounds and powder behind the prescription counter using an old manual typewriter and scales. He then mixed them in large mortar with a pestle. (You can still see the mortar and pestle at Schilling Drug today). After a family dispute, Clyde gave the store to Leonard in 1959. Leonard brought Natalie, Fran, and Bettye into the business.

Natalie sold the store in 1970 to her son-in-law and daughter, Harold and Betty Fussell. Schilling Drug Co. had operated on Main Street until 1977, when it moved to its new location on Avenue G. In an ironic twist of fate, all three brothers died within nine months of one another. Leonard passed away in June 1969.Frank died in March of 1970 and Clyde in January of 1970. In May of 1988, another member of their small family became a pharmacist.

Reprint from the "Schilling Drug Co." Kentwood Historical Cultural Museum