U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy recognized Amanda Ratcliff on Apr. 30 for her determination and entrepreneurial drive as part of his monthly Local Spotlight series. Ratcliff, the owner of Buttery Spell, was commended for turning personal challenges into a thriving business that features products inspired by New Orleans flavors and culture.
Cassidy’s Local Spotlight aims to showcase stories that reflect Louisiana values such as humility, respect, and resilience. He said he met Ratcliff recently in Jefferson Parish and was immediately impressed by her presence and unique approach to business.
“For this month’s Local Spotlight, let’s recognize somebody I met recently,” Cassidy said. “I met her in Jefferson Parish, and her name is Amanda Ratcliff.” He described how Ratcliff started Buttery Spell after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life in 2020: “She figured out how to sell her product, and now she’s a business owner.”
Cassidy recounted tasting one of her products at a JEDCO Food Incubator event: “Now my weakness is sweets, and so I’m tasting her peanut butter…I come back, I say, ‘Wow, Amanda. How did you figure this out?’” He encouraged others with ideas or dreams to take initiative: “But Buttery Spell is proof that you don’t need a perfect plan. You just need the courage to take that first step.”
In previous months Cassidy has highlighted other community members who exemplify service; for example, David Hoke of Lafayette was recognized in March for distributing personalized leather-bound Bibles to elected leaders across the country.
Cassidy serves on several Senate committees including Finance; Energy and Natural Resources; and Veterans Affairs according to the official website. He also co-founded the Greater Baton Rouge Community Clinic to deliver free health and dental care according to the official website, an effort focused on helping those without insurance coverage.
Cassidy advances initiatives related to lowering health care costs, supporting coastal restoration efforts, and reforming mental health systems according to the official website. In addition to his professional work—he earned undergraduate and medical degrees from Louisiana State University according to the official website—he raised three children with his wife (now retired as a breast cancer surgeon) according to the official website.
Cassidy concluded his remarks by addressing Ratcliff directly: “Amanda…your younger self would be extremely proud of who Amanda is today…And I’m proud. Louisiana’s proud. Keep up the great work.”
