Guest speakers Eric Johnson and Cathy Tijerino signed their newly published book “Images of America: Hammond”.
The Lion's Roar/Tiffany Nesbit 

A tea of dedication was made to the grand lady of Hammond Arts and Cultural activities Marjorie Morrison.  

Morrison’s recent passing inspired this year’s annual Friends of Sims Library (FOSL) Tea with Friends. It was held on the second floor of Sims Memorial Library Mar. 5 at 2 p.m. 

As a sign of dedication for her contribution to the university and the city of Hammond, FOSL passed out specially designed cookies. The selected cookies were shaped like little heeled shoes, in honor of Morrison’s style. The cookies were kindly donated from Kookie Kreations by Robin Lindsey. 

Along with shoe shaped cookies, the tables set for Tea with Friends were garnished with bouquets of flowers straight from Morrison’s personal garden.  The glassware was part of the director of the Sims Library Eric Johnson’s personal collection, and the fine chocolates were donated by local business Zocalisa Fine Chocolates.  

Board president of FOSL Michael Ledet had the honor of addressing the guest speakers and historians Johnson and Catherine Tijerino, who developed the book titled “Images of America: Hammond.” The two historians explained the information for each of the historical images throughout their book along with left out images that did not make the cut. Each picture engaged the audience and reminded them of the earlier years of the town of Hammond. 

“The audience was excited,” said historian partner of Ledet, Patricia Brady. “They were trying to identify all of their family and friends.”  

The audience was intrigued with excitement and full of questions such as, “Where is this book sold?” and “How long did it take to find all this information?” 

“It was a lot of fun,” said new member of FOSL board Carole Lachney. “This is the first year I attended. I am a new member of the FOSL. It was great because the speakers talked about putting their new book together. In addition, we got to hear about the background information about the photographs that were not included in the fifty to seventy word count under the pictures.” 

Attendees look forward to more fun-filled Tea with Friends in the future.

“This year was a record turn out,” said Johnson. “The food was wonderful and the audience was great and very involved with the event. This year is my fifth year attending, and it will not be the last. I am excited to see how the next turn out will be.” 

You can check out the book “Images of America: Hammond” at the Sims Memorial Library.

New board member of the Friends of Sims Library (FOSL) Carole Lachney enjoys her tea as she speaks about Marjorie Morrisons contribution to Southeastern and the city of Hammond.
The Lion's Roar