Beginning new chapters

Our Jan. 30 staff meeting was the last staff meeting with our fearless leader, Renée Chatelain. After taking care of business, the staff presented her with a painting by artist-in-residence Mike Weary of Renee the dancer - she's worn many, many hats during her career. As we sipped some bubbles and noshed on chocolate cake, we swapped stories.

Reminiscing about stolen sculpture, shimmying up a firepole and setting off the fire alarm while popping popcorn had us doubling over in laughter. On a more serious note, Renée shared her proudest accomplishments. No. 1 was renovating the old District Attorney's office into the shining star that is the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center, home to Arts Council of

Greater Baton Rouge and Baton Rouge Symphony. No. 2 was the codification of Creative Relief, which was born out of ACGBR's response to the 2016 flood. It's a model that is now internationally recognized for its positive impact in the wake of traumatic events.