August was a busy month at Gulf Coast Teaching Family Services!

On August 20, Phil Redman, Gloria Ethridge, and Natacha Krzesaj-Norris attended the GBRCTA end of year party, that was held at the Mockler Beverage building on Reiger Road. It was the third edition of this tournament, which raised close to $8000.00 for GCTFS, between the silent auction and the players' fees. You can view pictures of the party in our picture gallery.

The next big event was the two HAPA concerts held at the Manship Theatre in Baton Rouge on August 27 and 28. The Ohana concert gathered clients of several Capital Area organizations, including Big Buddy Program, Boys and Girls Clubs and Youth Oasis. Charles Kaupu did a fantastic job at educating the audience about the hawaiian culture, relating stories and anecdotes. The concert also included a poetry slam intermission and a private hula dance lesson with Maila Ann Kawailanamalie, 2002 Miss Aloha Hula, where several members of the audience joined her on stage to learn some of the basic moves. Wal-Mart representatives received thank you plaques made by GCTFS clients (click here to view the Day Habilitation consumers working on this crafty project) as the event was underwritten by grants from local stores.
The Aloha Y'all fundraiser was a great success. Fresh orchid leis were sold at the theatre's entrance, spreading the Aloha spirit on all the participants. Tsunami catered delicious food for the pre-concert reception, and the audience was entertained by hosts Dave Nussbaum, WBRZ meteorologist, and LSU baseball Coach Paul Mainieri.
Pictures of the Ohana and Aloha Y'all concerts can be viewed in our picture gallery.

Finally, like everyone else in South Louisiana, GCTFS felt the effects of hurricane Gustav, but did not experience any major damage. All consumers and staff were safe, and power was slowly restored to all regional offices.