The LaSalle Association for the Developmentally Delayed (L.A.D.D.) held their annual Christmas party Wednesday, December 11, at the Family Life Center of East Jena Baptist Church.
A large crowd of family and friends attended the event, which featured Ron Carr reading the Christmas story and sharing thoughts on the passage, along with songs. The L.A.D.D. employees joined the fun by singing their rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” with a version entitled, “The Twelve Days of Work.” The song highlighted the many jobs of L.A.D.D. employ-ees, with a special surprise “12th Day” that included a raise in their pay!
As in typical fashion, the employees went all out in celebrating the Christmas season, with employees dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with several elves.
Employee Jason Hamilton, who portrayed Santa Claus, opened the party with an official welcome and one of the highlights of the annual event is the awarding of the L.A.D.D. Employees of the Year.
For 2024, the L.A.D.D. Center Employees of the Year was Christian Metcalfe and John Hall.
Also recognized and presented with an award was employee Bradely Oswalt, who had perfect attendance during 2024.
Special guests for the party were the Louisiana Christian University Lady Wildcats basketball team and their head coach, Anna Phillips. The ladies served the meal to those attending.
Providing a special Christmas message was The Jena Times Editor Craig Franklin, who spoke of God’s great love and the free gift of salvation.
The L.A.D.D. Board of Directors, President Tom Watkins, Secretary/Treasurer Susie Jones, Legal Chairperson Darla McGuffee, Anthony Jackson, Lillie Stewart, Shelbi Prince, Renee Prince, Jenene Bignar and Carroll Mayes, thanked the following for their contributions to making the annual party a great success: East Jena Baptist Church, LCU Lady Wildcats and Coach Phillips, Dorsey Sweets, Carla Purvis and the entire community, family and friends of L.A.D.D.
