05/17/2026
Just wanted to say…
Last night brought me back to Baton Rouge, LA to get some rest after serving two days in the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, LA.
The 2026 Returning Hearts Celebration was a great success with about 190 children getting to spend the day with their Fathers/Uncles/Grandfathers in a Carnival Like atmosphere. They ate Popcorn, Cotton Candy, Slushies; ride a carousel, played on Bouncy Inflatibles and played 30-40 different carnival like games, each family sat for a photo to be taken and later shared with one another too.
We ate Hamburgers, hotdogs and chips for lunch together as family units. After lunch we walked to the rodeo arena and played with beach balls being tossed about, then we listened to a tremendous Gospel presentation by Dr Greg Carlson and through prayer gave the men an opportunity to share Jesus Christ with the children visiting them.
Wrapped up the day with a balloon release each one asking for their favorite color of balloon (representing the releasing of things holding us back in moving forward, and ra fresh new start in life). Upon the countdown all were released with a final hug and prayer that followed and the men gathered to go bank to their way and the children to their guardians, both sets of people, along with 100’s of volunteers’ eyes filled with tears!
One of the coolest things today was seeing the children’s eyes and smiles light up as they turned the corner and there stood, dressed in red with a simple red cap and my little round eyeglasses, Santa Doughboy. Asked over and over and declared by many, are you Santa Claus?
What a fantastic day! This pic is a friend I made at check in tine. Kennadie works at the desk of Baton Rouge , by Marriot on Arcadia Thruway where I received a wonderful rate for the night’s rest!
This morning I will be worshipping with former inmate, pastor Ron King, of the church plant, The Sanctuary located at 7001 Florida Ave. Off the Wellman Baptist Church this being where I will be speaking at an Awana Awards Ceremony and hone tomorrow! Phew