folio Holiday 2012

Tonight.

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A Community Publication of the Junior League of Mobile, Inc.

Contents

19 women

developing

AJLI Website Learn how the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc.’s website can develop the potential of every woman.

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promoting

32 volunteerism

Christmas Jubilee The 2012 Christmas Jubilee holiday shopping market promises to be one of Coastal Alabama’s most fabulous holiday events featuring Preview Gala, Silent Auction, VIP Shopping, Girls’ Night Out, Santa Breakfast, Author’s Corner, and Jubilee Art Walk.

Don’t miss out!

in every issue

holiday 2012 Volume 64, Number 1

6 8 10 12 12 14 51 58

Letter from the Editor Letter from the President Contributors Corporate Sponsors Advertisers Index At a Glance Calendar of Events Sustainer Spotlight

developing women 15

16

Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest Alvertha Penny

promoting

volunteerism

44 community

building a better

Prodisee Pantry Prodisee Pantry provides H.O.P.E. to the hungry while partnering with JLM and others to provide assistance well beyond a bag of groceries.

22 24 28 29 38 40

Be Your Best Self Week Be Your Best Self Day Seconds on Sage Sand to Strand Bluepass JLM Annual Report

building a better

community

47 Community Advisory

Council 2012-2013 57 Comments from the Community

holiday 2012 |

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in every issue

Letter

from the Editor

H

amilton Wright Mabie stated, “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” He is right; the holidays always seem to inspire more hope, joy, and love. From young children to adults, the holidays are also filled with anticipation.

We look forward to our time honored traditions of family gatherings, celebrations, and decorations while excitedly awaiting new experiences, presents, and festivities.

As I write this letter, I too am filled with anticipation. I anxiously await the publication of the folio Holiday issue. While it is still steeped in tradition, I hope you will also enjoy a new reading experience. From a new logo and layout to QR codes that send you to more information about our content, the folio team hopes that you appreciate our efforts to Kelli Etheredge | folio editor revitalize the magazine for our readers. We are working on other improvements as well; therefore, keep a look out for more advancements throughout the year.

Folio highlights the three facets of the Junior League of Mobile, Inc.’s (JLM) mission: developing the potential of women, promoting volunteerism, and building a better community. In this edition, readers learn leadership qualities from community leader Alvertha Penny, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of South Alabama (page 16). Additionally, discover how JLM’s social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest is strengthening its connection to the community (page 15) and how the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI) website can help JLM members develop leadership skills wherever and whenever they have the time and an Internet connection (page 19). In our articles about The Be Your Best Self Week Scholarship Awards (page 22) and The Be Your Best Self Day (page 24) readers learn how JLM partnered with the Distinguished Young Women (DYW) organization to sponsor scholarship awards for three DYW participants and organize community service projects, developing the potential of young women, promoting volunteerism, and building better communities around the nation. Focusing further on building better communities, learn how Prodisee Pantry (page 44) provides hope to the hungry while partnering with JLM and other organizations.

JLM’s work would not be possible without the dedication of volunteers and the community’s support. In this edition, therefore, readers are introduced to the Community Advisory Council (page 47), a dynamic group of community leaders who selflessly give of their time to provide feedback and support to JLM. Additionally, the Annual Report for 2011-2012 (page 40) provides readers a glimpse into the accomplishments of JLM’s 81st year of service to our community. Furthermore, JLM’s many fundraisers are highlighted throughout the magazine: find a pledge sheet for JLM’s Endowment campaign Sands to Strand (page 29), learn about changes that will occur at Seconds on Sage in the next few months (page 28), and plan to complete all of your holiday shopping through JLM’s two wonderful holiday shopping events - Blue Pass (page 38) and Christmas Jubilee (page 32). The Christmas Jubilee section is your go-to guide for experiencing sensational shopping, fabulous food, and exciting events over four days of fun. With JLM’s remarkable shopping events, readers can finish all of their holiday shopping by November 17th!

JLM President Katy Sullivan’s theme for this year is “Work that Matters.” As I reflect on this Holiday issue and Katy’s theme, I am reminded of a statement by novelist T.A. Barron: “Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you…Thinking of you this holiday season!” May we all know that we matter this, and every, season.

All the best to you and yours this holiday season,

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A Community Publication of the Junior League of Mobile, Inc.

EDITOR Kelli Etheredge ASSISTANT EDITOR Carrie Moore STAFF WRITERS Mary Jane Cobb, Mary-Margaret Dickey, Kasee Heisterhagen, Laura Jensen, Blair Ladd, Cece Redmond, Mary White, Johnnie Williams GUEST WRITER: Sarah Wall PHOTOGRAPHERS Debbie Charlton, Jessica Henderson, Ginny Ritchie, Laura Ellen Thornton, Danielle White GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andy Zak PRODUCTION Interstate Printing MISSION STATEMENT: The Junior League of Mobile, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The Junior League of Mobile reaches out to women of all races, religions and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to volunteerism. Junior League of Mobile, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. folio is published three times a year. All rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission, except by other Junior League publications is prohibited.

The office is located at 57 N. Sage Ave., Mobile, AL 36607 (251) 471-3348.

Yearly subscription $12.

Printed on 10% recycled paper with soy-based inks.

on the cover

in every issue

Letter

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

from the President

Three small words that mean so much. Every day, Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) members are doing work that matters in our community.

Simple acts are how we make a difference, both as individuals and as a whole. Below are a few examples of JLM members doing work that matters.

The training which JLM members receive from our parent organization, The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), helps our members develop their potential - both professionally and personally. Because of AJLI, JLM members can choose from a multitude of Katy Sullivan | JLM President educational opportunities, such as Dr. Katrice Albert’s Diversity and Inclusion as Transformational Leadership Goals, Ada Jo Mann’s Leading Positive Change: An Appreciative Approach to Community and Civic Leadership, or Sandra Timmons’ The Reluctant Leader: Navigating Your Path to Leadership. All of these amazing opportunities help JLM members become better community volunteers and, in turn, better citizens of the Gulf Coast.

Aside from quality training and personal growth, Distinguished Young Women’s Be Your Best Self Day (BYBD) is a natural fit for JLM and its members. BYBD is a special day that encourages young women to become involved in volunteering and in giving back to their communities. Part of JLM’s mission is to promote volunteerism and improve local communities through effective action. Having our JLM members join 50 talented, young women from all across the United States to volunteer at three different local, nonprofit agencies is certainly promoting volunteerism and improving our own community in the process.

JLM makes a difference in the community by partnering with wonderful local agencies such as Prodisee Pantry. JLM currently has two different volunteer placements at Prodisee Pantry from which its members can choose to work. Prodisee Pantry is a non-profit community food pantry that provides assistance to Baldwin County families who are facing hardship. On Tuesdays, JLM volunteers help families during the interview process. They also help by taking boxes of food to recipients’ cars. On Wednesdays, JLM volunteers pack additional boxes that will be distributed the following Tuesday.

JLM could not be an organization committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers without the support of our local community.

Please support the mission of JLM by supporting one of our many fundraisers whether by purchasing Blue Pass or Christmas Jubilee tickets or by donating to JLM’s Endowment Fund. With your help, we at JLM can continue to help important local organizations like Distinguished Young Women and Prodisee Pantry. It is truly work that matters.

President.................................................................... Katy Sullivan President-Elect ......................................................... Andrea Moore Communications Vice-President ............................ Anitra Henderson Community Vice President ...................................... Chandra Brown Stewart Finance Vice-President ............................................ Leah Nelson Membership Development Vice-President ........... Lori Lightcap Planning and Research Vice-President ................. Natasha Kendall Treasurer .................................................................... Laurie Sullivan Recording Secretary ................................................. Amy Hunter Governance Chair ...................................................... Mary Helen Strain Project Development Chair ..................................... Tammy Herrington Sustaining Representative ..................................... Kristin Pfeffle Nominating Chair ..................................................... Angie Gulledge

COMMUNITY ADVISORY COUNCIL

Carolyn Akers .................................. Mobile Area Education Foundation JC Barker.......................................... Mobile Symphony Bryan Hack....................................... Mobile County Public Schools Alvertha B. Penny............................. The Community Foundation of South Alabama Mary Mullins.................................... Mary A. Mullins Public Affairs Consultant Davis Pilot........................................ Pilot Catastrophe Darrelyn Bender............................... Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Merceria Ludgood............................ Mobile County Commissioner Bubba O’Gwynn............................... BB&T Jennifer Jenkins............................... Immediate Past President, Junior League of Mobile, Inc. Steve W. Chiepalich, CPA.................. S.W. Chiepalich, CPA, PC Mark Davidson, CFA.......................... Cornerstone Investment Management & Consulting John Browning................................. Burr Forman LLP

COMMUNICATIONS COUNCIL Casi Callaway Deborah Charlton Devon Coleman Alicia Corley Ashley D. Davis Lakeshia Dotson

Kelli Etheredge Sarah Greer Rachel Hanks Mariah Hart Penny Hatcher Anitra Henderson

COMMUNITY COUNCIL Sara Agee Taylor Baird Shayla Beaco Melissa Bowers Chandra Brown Stewart Amy Carpenter Catherine Chastain Jill Chenoweth Allison Chung Dorothy Curry Lynn Davidson Ashley D. Davis Kimberly Eblen Tiffany Felix Amy Fesperman

Erin Fillers Jennifer Gallaspy Megan Griggs Lisa Harris Rachel Harrison Elizabeth Harski Jennifer Hataway Kathryn Irvine Jillian Johnson Laura Johnson Monica Johnson Maggie Lacey Relya Mallory Missy Marshall Mary Lucy Mattei

FINANCE COUNCIL Renie Baya Pam Bostick Stephanie Caulder Anne Clement Melissa D. Hughes Nancy Erwin Meagan Faulkner Amanda Gonzales

Krystle Hinton Mary Carol Ladd Leah Ladner Lesley Lightcap Allison Lott Courtney Murphy Leah Nelson Melissa Safin

Chambliss Brister Michelle Dees Angie Gulledge Cazra Guy Lisa Howard

Bebe Barnard Lisa Barnhill Jennifer Denson Sandy Foster Heather Fowler Frances Garrett Dorothy Havard

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Melissa Muller Stacey O’Neil Joan Orleans Venessa Pettway Kristin Phillips Mary Stowe Rigrish Dawn Self Nancy Starr January Taylor Sarah Wall January Williams Tracy Womack

Gayle Shoultz Ann Sirmon Celia Stewart Laura Sullivan Beth Sumlin Elissa Tesney

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Patricia Howell Jennifer Jones Elizabeth Leatherbury Lori Lightcap Amanda McDonald

PLANNING & RESEARCH COUNCIL

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Jennifer Humphreys Leslie Johnson Leigh Rendfrey Danielle Ludlow Kelly Warren

Tammy Herrington Amy Hunter Sarah Jones Natasha Kendall Bradley King Elizabeth LaGrave Andrea Moore

Kimberly Otto Suzanne Scott Tiffany Waters Maria Williams Waconda Williams

Bunky Ralph Tracy Richards Carrie Riley Kate Simm Susan Smith Mary Helen Strain Kimberly Turner

© Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Protect our lands and waters for future generations.

Established in 1992, Forever Wild helps to keep our water and air clean; enhances outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting; offers a positive impact on tourism; and ensures that our children will have the chance to experience the natural wonders of our beautiful state — without tax dollars.

VOTE “YES” ON AMENDMENT 1 NOVEMBER 6 TO RENEW ALABAMA’S FOREVER WILD LAND TRUST PROGRAM. For more information, visit www.alabamiansforforeverwild.com. Paid for by Alabamians for Forever Wild, P.O. Box 2445, Birmingham, AL 35201-2445.

Academics Arts Athletics Spirituality Record $8.6 Million in College Scholarships Awarded to the Class of 2012 Leading the State with 165 Athletic State Championships Internationally Acclaimed Fine Arts Program Practicing Faith Through Service S T. PA U L’ S E P I S C O PA L S C H O O L – E D U C AT I N G T H E W H O L E C H I L D Lower School Open House November 15 6 pm | For admissions information, contact Julie Taylor | 251-461-2129 | stpaulsmobile.net SPS_Folio_Ad_7x4-625.indd 1

8/23/12 8:04 PM

holiday 2012 |

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in every issue

Contributors

of folio

Carrie (Finch) Moore – Assistant Editor Spouse: Dr. Jeremy “Clint” Moore Children: Connor (2) Occupation: Executive Assistant, AltaPointe Health Systems Third Year Psychiatry Clerkship Coordinator, University of South Alabama College of Medicine Hobbies/Activities: reading, spending time with family, DIY (Do it Yourself) projects Favorite thing about writing for folio and/or JLM: I like writing for folio because it gives me in-depth knowledge on the events I write about by speaking with those who are involved first-hand. I get to see the projects through their eyes, which gives me new perspective on JLM’s overall mission and what the organization means to people, both inside and outside the membership

Laura Jensen - Writer Spouse: Ryan Jensen Children: Camille (9 months) Occupation: Pre-Kindergarten teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal School Hobbies/Activities: Running, Cooking, Reading, Kayaking Favorite thing about writing for folio and/or JLM: Connecting with other women through our shared interest of improving our community

Mary Gormandy White - Writer Spouse: Steve White Occupation: Co-owner of MTI Business Solutions, providing HR, management, and public relations training and consulting services for clients throughout the U.S., and also an editor with LoveToKnow.com and author of two non-fiction books.

Hobbies/Activities: My husband and I have an Airstream RV and enjoy taking camping trips with our three dogs when we can find the time.

Favorite thing about writing for folio and/or JLM: I enjoy having an opportunity to participate in a progressive organization that provides so many important services to our community while also focusing on promoting volunteerism and developing the potential of women. Working on folio is a great way to play a role in helping educate JLM members and others throughout the community about the important work and services the organization provides.

Kasee Heisterhagen - Writer Spouse: Tim Heisterhagen Occupation: Attorney at Burr & Forman Hobbies: Running & Gardening Favorite thing about JLM: Making new friends both in the League and in the Community

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2:06 PM

Page 1

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in every issue

Advertisers 2012

Sponsors & Donors Title Sponsor

Belk Lamar Advertising of Mobile La-Z-Boy Wind Creek Casino & Hotel

Georgia Roussos Catering, Inc. Hand Arendall, LLC Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Meyer’s Vacation Rentals Naman’s Catering Port City Rental Ramsey Tree Farms Space Savers Self Storage Susan Hamil Finizola The Thompson Holdings Foundation

Silver Sponsor

Friend

WALA Fox 10/WFNA the CW

CJ Preview Gala Sponsor C Spire Wireless

Gold Sponsor

Bronstein’s Fine Furniture Mobile Press Register Regions Bank Bailey’s TV Claude Moore Jeweler Coca Cola Bottling Company Royal Cup Coffee Something New Summer Classics

Bronze Sponsor Barnes and Noble Booksellers Eastern Shore Centre BB&T Private Gallery Service Master Advanced Cleaning The Center for Reproductive Medicine Twist Cupcakes

Supporter BankTrust Battlehouse Hotel and Spa Baumhower’s Wings of Mobile Chick-fil-A

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Blue Gill Restaurant Bonnie Fuchs Chat-A-Way Cafe A Woman’s Choice P.C. Bake My Day Beard Equipment Company Hurricane Electronics NES Rentals Steve Chiepalich

Patrons Amy Garrison Dr. Bill Bodie Batchelor’s Residential Services, LLC Janee and Jo Bonner Chris and Ashley Brown Cornerstone Investment Management and Consulting Crystal Ice Co. Debbie Charlton Photography Ginger Saucier Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Katy and Emil Sullivan Kentwood Springs Pollman’s Bake Shop

Pure Barre Mobile Southeastern Press Todd Villareal Waite’s Cleaners Donor Alabama Family Dental Alabama Orthopedic Clinic B&B Pet Stop Bakrim Yoga Bebo’s Car Wash Cay Construction Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt The Fresh Market Geez Louise Original Oyster House Rebecca Satterwhite Red or White Springhill Golf Course Ultra Tanz Zundel’s Jewelry Jubilee Jingle Christy Bishop Pam Bostick Jacqueline Burkett Amy Groves Krystle Hinton Melanie Elliott Courtney Everette Jennifer Humphreys Amanda Muscat Bunky Ralph Rebecca Satterwhite Gayle Shoultz Dana Smallwood Beth Sumlin Tonie Ann Torrans Kelly Warren

Holiday 2012

Alabama for Forever Wild.........................9 BankTrust........................................................60 Bellingrath Gardens....................................56 Center Reproductive Medicine..............13 City of Fairhope............................................2 Covenant Hospice.......................................13 Glynn Case.....................................................53 Gulf Coast Exploreum................................54 High Cotton...................................................11 Holiday............................................................55 Infirmary Health...........................................59 Ivy Cottage.....................................................53 Keith A/C.........................................................18 Kersten Reed.................................................55 Portier Place..................................................50 Portraits, Inc...................................................54 Regions...........................................................30-31 Ruth Chris Steakhouse..............................3 Springdale Travel.........................................11 St. Luke’s..........................................................56 St. Mary’s.........................................................52 St. Paul’s..........................................................9 Sunrise Dermatology.................................54 UMS Wright Prep.........................................7 Window World..............................................52

How To Advertise Please address all advertising space and rate inquiries to: folio Magazine, Ad Manager 57 N. Sage Ave. Mobile, AL 36607 (251) 471-3348 Fax (251) 471-3340 For more information or to download an advertising contract, visit us at www.juniorleaguemobile.org

How To Subscribe folio A Community Publication of the Junior League of Mobile, Inc.

1-Year Subscription (3 Issues per Year: Oct., Feb., & June) For Only $12 Subscribe Today! By mailing your check to: folio Magazine 57 North Sage Avenue Mobile, AL 36607

Scan the QR code

with your smartphone to access the advertising contract.

Special Information About A Very Special Subject.

Doctors at the oldest, largest infertility practice in the area will take the time to answer your questions.

For couples experiencing difficulty having a baby, information about the best science, medicine and care available in reproductive medicine could change their lives forever. The physicians at The Center for Reproductive Medicine have seen the difference a baby can make for more than 3,000 couples. They’ll take the time to give you, or a friend or relative who wants to have a baby, the special information you may need on this very special subject. E-mail your questions and concerns to them at www.infertilityalabama.com or call 251-438-4200 for an initial appointment.

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Mobile Infirmary Medical Center 3 Mobile Infirmary Circle, Suite 213 Mobile AL 36607

251.438.4200 www.infertilityalabama.com Mobile I Pensacola I Montgomery I Dothan

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in every issue

At a

Glance A quick look at what makes JLM such a great organization.

WHO WE ARE:

• Approximately 1,800 diverse volunteering women • A 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation

WHAT WE DO:

• Promote volunteerism • Develop the potential of women • Improve our community through effective action • Annually donate more than $1 million in volunteer time and direct financial support in the community

WHY WE DO IT:

• To positively impact the lives of 25,000+ individuals annually

HOW WE WORK:

• By operating programs focusing on the impact areas of: - Children and Education - By investing fundraising profits into the mission

Calend

Founders of numerous community service organizations, such as: • Carlen House Museum • Child Advocacy Center • Preschool for the Sensory Impaired • Volunteer Mobile • Mobile Arts Council • The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center • The Drug Education Council • Mobile Public Library’s Book Mobile Program • Mobile Area Education Foundation • United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile • Child Daycare Association • Volunteers dedicated to the Gulf Coast since 1931

ar A quick look at upcoming JLM events.

OCTOBER 24 Beverages with the Board 26 Blue Pass Event Begins

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OUR LEGACY:

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NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

1 Sustainer Cocktail Party 14 Christmas Jubilee Preview Gala 15–17 Christmas Jubilee at the Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds 22 Thanksgiving

4 & 6 Sustainer Gift Wrap 9-16 Chanukah 25 Christmas 26 Kwanzaa

10 Admissions Open House for women interested in JLM membership

developing women

Keeping the Community Informed

JLM leverages social networking

by Mary Gormandy White

While folio provides a great way to keep up with Junior League of Mobile, Inc.’s (JLM) activities and community impact, it’s certainly not the only option to stay in touch and informed. In addition to the JuniorleagueMobile.org website, member newsletters, and other communication channels, JLM is leveraging the power of social media to strengthen its connection to the community.

JLM Perspective on Social Media JLM has - and is continuing - to grow an active presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest to communicate the organization’s mission and to keep members and the community informed about JLM. According to Jennifer Humphreys, JLM Technology Chair, “Our goal with social media is to communicate how we are fulfilling our mission of promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities along the Gulf Coast.”

Utilizing social media is a powerful tool for building JLM’s brand, as well as sharing important information with the community as a whole. Humphreys explains,

“The greatest benefit of social media is that it provides yet another outlet for JLM to communicate with our members and community. We are able to provide timely, relevant information about JLM, our community partners and our community, as well as resources relating to our current focus areas of children and education.”

Sharing Via Social Media JLM shares information via the organization’s social media profiles that are designed to inspire women, members and non-members, to reach their full potential. Posts include inspirational quotes, information about what JLM stands for, and what women are accomplishing within their communities. Humphreys states, “Women can get caught up in their daily lives; we hope that through social media participation with JLM, we can help remind women of all the amazing things they can achieve.”

Humphreys continues, “We also want to help promote awareness of community events and increase knowledge in areas such as children, education, literacy, etc., while also promoting our brand. We are

always looking for ways to publicize the achievements of our members and community partners, as well as communicate events in the community. If you have any contributions, please email jrleaguemobile@gmail.com for possible inclusion in our social media calendar.”

Connect with JLM Online It’s easy to connect with JLM online - simply “like” JLM on Facebook or become a follower on Twitter or Pinterest.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/juniorleaguemobile

Twitter https://twitter.com/JrLeagueMobile

Pinterest https://pinterest.com/jrleaguemobile

When you connect with JLM via your favorite social media site(s), you’ll have an easy-to-use and timely resource to discover important messages and information from JLM, as well as a vehicle for networking and engaging with likeminded social media users.

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developing women As President and CEO of the Community Foundation of South Alabama (CFSA), Alvertha Penny has overseen millions in funding to local nonprofits to advance her organization’s mission to create healthy communities.

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The CFSA recently held 17 listening forums throughout its eight county service area to learn from residents how to better address the needs of their communities.

Lead

Taking the Multiplying philanthropy

through effective leadership

by Kasee Heisterhagen

A

lvertha Penny is making her mark in Mobile because she understands nonprofit organizations and is responsive to the needs of the community she serves. As President and CEO of the Community Foundation of South Alabama, Penny is responsible for leading in the Foundation’s mission of creating healthy communities in South Alabama by serving donors, convening around important topics and issues, and multiplying philanthropy through effective leadership.

The Community Foundation accomplishes this by pooling charitable gifts, investing the funds, and using the earnings to make high-impact grants. Almost every nonprofit in the Mobile area has received funding at some point from the Community Foundation. In 2011 alone, the Foundation distributed over $3.1 Million to nonprofit organizations.

In Penny’s thirty-year history of working in the public, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors, she has lived in many places and has worked with the community from a range of vantage points. Part of what attracted Penny to South Alabama is the opportunity to serve rural, suburban, and urban community members.

A major component of Penny’s recipe for success has been the ability to show the effectiveness of the Foundation’s impact on the community. “Unless you have the data that backs up your assumptions, it is a challenge to get the investments in the community that you need,” said Penny, “because people want to know ‘What’s the result?’”

To better serve the needs of South Alabama residents, the Community Foundation goes directly to the source. In addition to commissioning studies focusing on how community conditions change over time, the Foundation listens to the nonprofits themselves because they are the people on the ground who are actively engaged with the community on a day-to-day basis.

Recently the Community Foundation held seventeen community listening forums covering all eight counties of its service area. “The intent was to hear from the community in terms of how it identifies its own needs and how to problem solve in those communities,” said Penny. Some of the recurring issues that community members raised included workforce development, at-risk youth, civic engagement, and access to arts. “Given that platform of issues and concerns,

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[we] will be going back into the communities to work with them around what are the next steps, what we are going to do about it, and how the Foundation can help them facilitate problem-solving.”

Penny strives daily to ensure that the Foundation will be considered a civic leader on critical community issues. As part of her impact on South Alabama, she wants to double the size of the Foundation and improve the culture of partnerships between and among nonprofits and philanthropies.

Overall, she wants to leave a legacy of giving excellent service to those who have entrusted their resources to the Foundation. “For individuals and businesses that want to become involved in the community, there is no better place than the Community Foundation. We enable donors and stakeholders in the community to reach eternity through philanthropy. These resources they entrust to us live on forever,” she said.

For women who want to become leaders in their field, Penny offers the following advice: “Have a good understanding of the financial aspects of your industry. Be prepared to manage people, products, and projects with a high level of skill. Industries can change every microsecond – embrace technology and new developments. Do not be afraid to experiment.” Penny also values developing relationships and nurturing them “because it is important to have a broad network of expertise and trusted critics, as well as friends.” Most importantly, Penny said, “Have a strong sense of your own values. You really have to love what you do.”

For more information about the Community Foundation of South Alabama, go to: www.communityendowment.com.

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developing women

AJLI Website

Developing the Potential of Women with Every Click

by Mary Jane Cobb

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to visit the AJLI website.

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AJLI.org gives members access to training, webinars and other resources anywhere an Internet connection exists.

T

raining its members for community and civic leadership is a basic mission of Junior League organizations around the globe.

Through the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI), Junior League members have multiple resources available online, where they may gain necessary knowledge and develop leadership skills, wherever and whenever the Internet is available. The online accessibility of these resources is an enormous benefit for women everywhere who wish to develop their potential, while still juggling their varied responsibilities of family, work, and volunteerism.

The especially well-designed and userfriendly AJLI website, AJLI.org, permits easy navigation through attractive screens, arranged in logical sequence, with tabs and drop-down menus to aid in searching the site. The Member tab leads to detailed information about conferences, meetings, and online learning opportunities. Online learning includes webinars, web workshops, self-paced courses and on-demand

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archived presentations. Members will soon be able to track online courses they have completed and add this information to their profiles on the AJLI website. The offerings available on the site are as varied as its members: Webinar Wednesdays: By clicking through online learning menus, members can find topics and schedules for Webinar Wednesdays, which are available to a limited number of advance registrants. Early registration is, therefore, strongly recommended. Webinars are scheduled once or twice a month at noon Eastern Standard Time and last approximately one hour. Presentations are archived to be available on demand and slides of each presentation can be downloaded. A few of the presenters and their topics in the archives are: Dan Pallotta: Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential Shar McBee: To Lead is to Serve: How to Attract Volunteers and Keep Them Dr. Katrice Albert: Diversity and Inclusion as Transformational Leadership Goals Sally Hedgesen: Tapping the Power of the Female Vision

Ada Jo Mann: Leading Positive Change: An Appreciative Approach to Community and Civic Leadership Sandra Timmons: The Reluctant Leader: Navigating Your Path to Leadership Self-Paced Courses: AJLI periodically develops self-paced courses that can fit any schedule. According to the website, “Each course consists of a number of 10-15 minute lessons that [a member] can complete all at one time or individually as [she] find[s] time.” The courses are designed according to adult learning theory and place learners in a situation that requires them to guide the conversation at key points. When the learner struggles for the answer, she can review the Knowledge Base resource which provides timely information for the issue raised in the scenario.

Each member who participates in the modules will experience the course at her experience level.

Currently, “Building Leaders and Blazing Trails: Changing the World with the Junior League,” is a one-hour module, consisting of four lessons.

The course is an overview of the

difference league members make in their community, how members can connect with other members, how Junior League empowers members for community leadership and encourages personal growth and development, and how AJLI supports continuous analysis and modifications to meet the needs of women in the world today.

Issue Based Community Impact Series On Demand: In six sessions, members are guided through the complete process, from understanding the power of issue based community impact projects to the development of issue based projects through the process of identification, selection, planning and evaluation. A participant’s guide accompanies each session and should be downloaded and reviewed prior to watching the recorded presentation.

as: Forming, Storming, Norming (or Mourning or Adjourning), Performing and Transforming.

Organizational Development Institutes (ODI): While many of the offerings are entirely online, ODI’s are informative, inspiring, and innovative three-day weekend training programs, which are usually held two or more times a year and attended by members selected by each Junior League. Although only a few members attend the Conference, the Pre-Reading Packet, Agenda, and Course Descriptions are available online for every member to view. Courses for 2012-2013 ODI’s are: • Achieving Community Impact • Building Internal Capacity • Electing Leaders • Fund Development • Membership Development

Junior League of Mobile, Inc.’s (JLM) members can reap the benefits of these offerings by simply creating an account on the AJLI website. To create an account, JLM members need their AJLI Member ID number. Members can find their number by logging into JLM’s website and viewing their profile page. Their AJLI number is on the first line under “Member Information.”

JLM Communications Vice President, Anitra Henderson, encourages every JLM member to take advantage of the resources to realize their full potential.

She notes, “Through the partnership of JLM and AJLI, members receive access to useful information. Whether the training is online or onsite, the workshops build our capacity to live the JLM mission.”

Archived AJLI Meetings and Conferences: Beginning in 2005, speeches, presentations, and handouts from Annual Conferences, leadership conferences, and training days have been archived and can be accessed from the Conference Materials section under AJLI Training and Meeting Resources. As an example, Martha Ferry’s four-slide presentation, “Financial Awareness for a Junior League Board,” at the 2011 Annual Conference in Philadelphia, can be accessed by any Junior League member wherever she has an Internet connection. Dr. Mimi Hull’s discussion, “The Five Phases of Team Building,” is another archived selection from the 2011 Annual Conference.

She effectively and humorously defines the phases

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week!

Spreading the DYW Message of Personal Excellence and Community Service to Young People Nationwide

by Blair Ladd & Carrie Moore

he Distinguished Young Women (DYW) who visit Mobile to participate in the national scholarship competition do so much more than compete. While in Mobile, the young women participate in a “Be Your Best Self ” day during which the ladies give back to the Mobile community. Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) members volunteer to assist these amazing young women throughout the day in their endeavors. Even before they visit Mobile, however, these young women are also consistently working behind the scenes and away from the cameras to impact their own communities, and JLM rewards them for these efforts.

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“The ‘Be Your Best Self’ message is one that I have been blessed to witness and carry forth. I believe it has the power to transform the self-esteem and futures of young people everywhere. I watched it inspire hope, confidence, joy, and dreams in children who are facing the most difficult of trials.”

– Christina Maxwell – BYBS Award Winner From left, JLM President Katy Sullivan presents essay awards to Jennifer Pruitt (West Virginia), 2012 Distinguished Young Woman Christina Maxwell (North Carolina), and Lauren Hoppe (Colorado).

Before they journey to Mobile, each Distinguished Young Women State winner is required to participate in the National Be Your Best Self Week. This year’s event took place April 23 – 27.

The state winners had to choose one or more days during the week to creatively present the DYW’s Be Your Best Self message to their local Boys & Girls Club and/or other community organizations. According to DYW literature, the Be Your Best Self program is “aimed at encouraging self-esteem in young people across the country” and consists of five simple values: 1. Be Healthy 2. Be Involved 3. Be Studious 4. Be Ambitious 5. Be Responsible. Once the young women finish their presentations during Be Your Best Self Week, they

must write a two page essay describing their presentation and experience.

During the 2011 Be Your Best Self Week, the 50 participants presented to over 85 organizations and directly impacted 5,226 children across the United States. Now in its fourth year, the Be Your Best Self Week and the young women who participate are encouraging people in their community to embrace and work towards a more positive future for themselves.

According to DYW Communications Director Stephanie Bradford, the Be Your Best Self Week has a far-reaching impact on the community, the young women, and the DYW organization.

“Being a DYW means having the ability to connect with others … while setting a good role model for younger generations to look up to. It means that [you] want to better [your] community and make positive choices to not only be the best that [you] can be, but also help others to be the best self that they can be as well.”

– Lauren Hoppa – BYBS Award Winner:

“During one week each spring,” Bradford said, “DYW participants take time out of their hectic high school schedules to make a difference in their community. Each young woman uses her own talents and experiences to develop a presentation teaching the five elements of the Be Your Best Self program.

“The program’s message is simple and the presentations created by our participants are the perfect avenue to reach young people and motivate them to pursue excellence in all areas of their lives. Since the start of this week-long outreach effort four years ago, DYW participants have impacted the lives of more than 15,000 boys and girls across the country.”

Bradford added that for the participants, the experience shows the value of giving back to the community and how easy it is to make a positive impact. She said the participants “often report how special it is to see how the children look up to them and view them as role models. “ Bradford said that DYW is dedicated to the effort of developing our country’s youth, and the Be Your Best Self

Week “provides a way for us to touch the lives of thousands each year, both boys and girls, through the dynamic and inspiring young women who are participants in our program.”

From the young women’s essays, three are chosen to receive a Be Your Best Self Award and a $1,000 scholarship. Until 2012, the Be Your Best Self Awards were sponsored by the Distinguished Young Women Alumnae Council, but this year, the group was in the process of sponsoring another award, and JLM was asked to sponsor the awards in addition to the organization’s ongoing sponsorship of Be Your Best Self Day. JLM President Katy Sullivan explained, “When JLM was asked to participate in the Be Your Best Self Award, it was practically a no-brainer. With our past and current involvement with DYW, and specifically the Be Your Best Self Day, it was only natural for us to take the reins! JLM focuses on developing the potential of women and on making our communities a safer, healthier, and happier place to live. DYW’s Be Your Best Self Award shares the same focus.

With the young women helping their community, their surrounding communities, and our Mobile community, they are fulfilling JLM’s mission. JLM was more than happy to award the top three winning essay writers a $1000 scholarship. Their hard work both before and during the final competition has truly been an inspiration to our members and the members of their community.”

BYBS Award Winner: Lauren Hoppa – Colorado Hoppa gave her presentation to a group of 24 kindergarten through fifth grade boys and girls at Crossroads Community Church in Parker, Colorado. She chose an Olympic themed presentation due to the then upcoming Summer Olympics.

Each of the five BYBS values represented a color of the Olympic rings. “In the Olympic rings, each is linked together to show unity. Similarly, each of the five elements can be linked together in order to help better one’s self, ambition and drive towards success.”

BYBS Award Winner: Christina Maxwell – North Carolina Maxwell gave more than one presentation, but chose to write about the one she gave to approximately 50 elementary school children at the Boys and Girls Club in her community. She began by giving each child a handful of modeling clay and asking them to each mold it into something that represented what they wanted to become one day. Then, she used the clay to represent the concept that the children can become anything they want if they make good choices and work hard.

She told them that the decisions they make every day help mold them into the person they will become. Then, she had the children help her come up with good decisions they can make in each of the five BYBS areas. She also told them about mistakes and how “no matter how big the mistake is, it is never too late to become something new—just as you can mold smashed Play-Doh into a new creation.”

BYBS Award Winner: Jennifer Pruett – West Virginia Pruett gave her presentation to the entire fifth grade at her local elementary school. She gave a slide show discussion on the five elements of the BYBS program and how to make good choices in each category. Because a sixth grade boy in a neighboring school had recently committed suicide from being bullied (the third recent adolescent suicide in her county), she also used the BYBS platform to speak against bullying other children. “I took this opportunity to remind my audience that picking on others because of their looks or possessions is diminutive.”

Scan the QR code

with your smartphone to read the three winning essays.

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day!

Developing Future Leaders in their Communities

by Sarah Wall | BYBS Day Committee Chair

at for Humanity of

g Women finalist prepare to help Habit A group of 2012 Distinguished Youn Mobile County.

Southwest Alabama paint a home in

oung women from all over the United States had a chance to experience the Gulf Coast in a very special way at the annual Be Your Best Self Day on June 21st.

Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) once again hosted the Distinguished Young Women from all 50 states for a day of community service. The young ladies were able to learn first-hand the value of giving back. The Distinguished Young Woman from Indiana, Chloe McLaughlin, said the experience of giving back made her feel “full-hearted.”

This year, JLM partnered with Dumas Wesley Community Center, Woody’s Song, and Habitat for Humanity to give the young women the opportunity to discover the joy and importance of volunteerism. Each agency provided a unique opportunity.

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en Finalists enjoy breakfast at JLM

The 2012 Distinguished Young Wom

Dumas Wesley Community Center is one of JLM’s partner agencies. It’s a busy place in the summertime! The Center, which works primarily with low-income families, puts on a Summer Recreation Camp for more than 100 children ranging in age from six to 15. The Distinguished Young Women were invited to jump into a day of camp. They were greeted enthusiastically by the campers, waving handmade welcome signs and lining the sidewalk to the entrance of the center.

The young ladies spent the first part of the morning talking about what it takes to be your best self, focusing on what it means to be a Distinguished Young Woman, how to set and reach goals, and the importance of education. Then they took part in an arts and crafts activity and a spirited game of kickball. Britt Durkee, the Distinguished Young Woman from Vermont, said, “I had a group of eight to nine year old boys, and I really felt connected to them. A few of them kept hugging me and didn’t want me to leave. It was a very rewarding experience!”

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Headquarters before beginning their

Woody’s Song is a school for children on the autism spectrum. It goes year-round, and the Distinguished Young Women were able to take a turn at teaching and working in the classroom. They rotated through three different classrooms and learned more about autism and how education can be tailored to each student, including using new technology, like iPads, in everyday learning. They also got a chance to have some fun, as they enjoyed recess and a break from lessons.

The Distinguished Young Woman from Louisiana, Emily Redmond, said she really enjoyed “being able to interact with kids who have a different perspective on life. The children and their instructors work so hard to progress in life and make a difference.”

Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Alabama has been in the business of building and improving houses for more than two decades. The Distinguished Young Women played a huge role in the literal make-over of a home in Mobile. The young ladies worked very hard in the Gulf Coast summer-

community service day.

time heat and painted the outside of a house. Devin Inch, the Distinguished Young Woman from Alaska, was one of those painters. She was amazed to see “how the house looked after.

And, how one can of paint changed the house and the homeowner’s selfesteem about her property.” The homeowner was there to see all the work and was thrilled with the finished product.

JLM is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities.

Its partnership with the Distinguished Young Women for Be Your Best Self Day allows future leaders of America to learn about the benefits and importance of getting involved, giving back, and helping others. This year marked the seventh year for the community service day. Every year, it is coordinated by a committee of JLM volunteers. Julie Bassett helped organize and plan the event. She also spent part of Be Your Best Self Day at Woody’s Song with the Distinguished Young

The finalists spent the day volunteering at Dumas Wesley Community Center, Woody’s Song school for autistic children, or a Habitat for Humanity build.

Women and the school’s students and staff. She said it was very rewarding to be at Woody’s song and “watch the Distinguished Young Women interact with the children. They were wonderful with them. It was a great learning experience for all.”

It was a day that will stay with all of those involved and will encourage and inspire all of us to make our communities better places to live. “The most rewarding part of Be Your Best Self Day for me was the impact this day had not only on the Distinguished Young Women participants, but the Junior League of Mobile members as well,” said JLM member and Be Your Best Self Day volunteer Stacey Killingsworth. “On this day, we embodied the mission of both organizations. I feel confident in saying our collective experiences will allow us all to move forward as better stewards of the communities in which we live.”

Katie Hassell, also a JLM member and Be Your Best Self Day volunteer, said the day shows “very accomplished girls becoming young women who have an appreciation for helping the community.”

We look forward to working with the Distinguished Young Women again next year for Be Your Best Self Day!

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to watch a video of the young women working in the community.

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Coming Up! November 15 -17, 2012 Stop by the Seconds on Sage booth at Christmas Jubilee.

March 16, 2013 Mark your calendar for Project Rummage at Seconds on Sage.

Keep an eye out for membership appreciation and other events at Seconds on Sage!

Do you have an old photo or story to share about JLM’s resale shop history? Email Chair Renie Baya at reniebaya@hotmail.com.

Seconds on Sage: Redefining the Vision, Living the Mission

S

econds on Sage, a Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) project, is building on its 77-year legacy with a new vision. Since 1935, JLM’s resale and consignment shop has always served the community by selling great fashions, furniture, and home accessories at an affordable price. All proceeds from Seconds on Sage fund JLM’s mission.

As the Mobile Bay Area continuously changes, JLM focuses on serving our mission and building a better com-

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munity. The changing need of the community has encouraged JLM and its Board of Directors to refocus the Seconds on Sage project to change from a daily shopping experience to a seasonal shopping extravaganza.

Seconds on Sage will, therefore, close its doors to daily shoppers on October 26, 2012. The change will allow JLM to reduce daily expenses, gather the best items for resale, and better fund the mission. The Seconds on Sage space has been completely updated and is ready to reopen for Project Rum-

mage in March 2013. With help from our corporate partner Belk, Seconds on Sage has transformed its look to better showcase its best merchandise.

From new fixtures and paint to bigger areas to shop and chat, the new vision of Seconds on Sage will exceed your shopping expectations.

Become our friend on Facebook and learn more at www.juniorleaguemobile. org (click on the Seconds on Sage logo at the bottom of the Home page).

promoting volunteerism

promoting volunteerism

Sand to Strand Cultivating A Better Community Along the Gulf Coast Junior League of Mobile, Inc.

Endowment Pledge Sheet JLMJLM Endowment Pledge Sheet Pledge Amounts • $25,000 Title Sponsor • $20,000 Platinum Sponsor • $10,000 Gold Sponsor • $5,000 Silver Sponsor • $2,500 Bronze Sponsor • $1,000 Supporter • $500 Friend • $250 Patron • $100 Donor Donors at Patron andChristmas higher willJubilee receivepreview party and/or Donors at Patron level and higher willlevel receive Christmas Jubilee Preview Gala tickets: quantity is determined by sponsorship general admission tickets; quantity is determined by sponsorship level. level.

Pledged $ __________________________ Check Please make checks payable to the Junior League of Mobile and in the note section write Endowment.

Credit Card

Mastercard

Visa

Amount $____________ Credit Card Number____________________________________ Expires_______/_______ V Code/CCV_______ Signature_________________________________________________________ Matching Gifts : You can double your gift if your employer has a matching gift program. Please ask your personnel office for a matching gift form.

My matching gift form is enclosed.

Other Planned Giving Opportunities: I would like more information about: Including JLM in my will

Bequests

Sustainer

Active

Life Insurance (naming JLM as beneficiary) Provisional

Giving Securities

Other______________________

Name__________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip____________________________________________________________ Phone________________________Email Address_______________________________ I am making this gift (please check one):

FOLIO

SPRING 2012

To improve my community In honor of _________________________________________________________ In memory of ________________________________________________________ For gifts in honor or in memory of someone, please provide an address where we can notify the family or individual.

Name__________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________

All gifts are tax deductible.

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For more information, call 251-471-3348. holiday 2012 |

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Š 2012 Regions Bank.

Expect more support.

Sometimes, everybody needs a little support. And at Regions, we’re always looking for opportunities to boost our communities, whether it’s by supporting local events or helping find financial solutions for neighborhood improvements. Our neighbors inspire us and define who we are as a bank. So we’re always excited to support the cities and towns we call home.

1.800.regions | regions.com

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Welcome to the 2012 Christmas Jubilee holiday shopping market!

by Beth Sumlin | Christmas Jubilee Chair

O

n behalf of Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) and the 2012 Christmas Jubilee committee, I would like to thank you for your invaluable support of this premiere holiday event. In its 82nd year, JLM has supported programs that have impacted our community culturally, educationally, financially, and charitably. As JLM’s largest fundraiser, Christmas Jubilee has been able to give back over 4.25 million dollars to community programs as well as support JLM’s mission to promote volunteerism, develop the potential of women, and improve our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

The four keys to success that enable Christmas Jubilee to support JLM’s mission are sponsors, merchants, shoppers, and JLM’s amazing volunteers.

We are always so grateful our sponsors choose to support JLM and Christmas Jubilee. Each cash and in-kind donation enhances our efforts and enables us to provide many programs and services that would be impossible without their continued support. A special thanks goes out to WALA Fox 10/ WFNA the CW, C Spire Wireless, Wind Creek Casino & Hotel, Belk and many, many more.

I would like to welcome all of the merchants to the 2012 Christmas Jubilee! By participating in this event, your support helps JLM achieve its mission. We are excited to see our returning merchants, and we look forward to welcoming many new and unique merchants to our market this year!

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TICKET INFORMATION

Christmas Jubilee 2012 | November 15th-17th Mobile’s Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS

Tickets are valid for one day only.

Taxes are included in the ticket price. $8.00 advance | $10.00 at the door $3.00 parking

MARKET HOURS

Thursday: 10:30 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.

Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

COLLEGE STUDENT, SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

Discount taken off tickets sold at the door with proper I.D. $6.00 each at the door (Save $4.00)

CHILDREN’S TICKETS

Children ages 6-12 $3.00 Children 5 and under - FREE

PREVIEW GALA/SILENT AUCTION

November 14th Sponsored by C Spire Wireless $50.00 each | 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Valid for Preview Gala and for unlimited market admission.

Silent Auction, Open Bar, Holiday Attire | Enjoy an evening of fabulous food prepared by Georgia Roussos, Cupcakes by Twist, and music by Roman Street. Must be 21 years or older to attend.

VIP shoppers will receive a 10% discount with participating merchants.

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

November 16th | Private Gallery Pop-Up Boutique Shopping Event $35.00 each | 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Fashion Show, Hors d’oeuvres, Cocktails, fabulous shopping Must be 21 years or older to attend.

SANTA BREAKFAST

November 17th $15.00 each | Two seatings available - 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Cookie Decorating, Pictures with Santa, and Storytime (All attendees MUST have a ticket) Tickets available at JLM Headquarters (57 N. Sage Avenue) and online at www.juniorleaguemobile.org (Members, remember to purchase your tickets from your Member Home Page!)

For more information, call 251-471-3348.

VIP SHOPPING EVENT Shoppers peruse the aisles at the 2011 JLM Christmas Jubilee.

Each merchant doesn’t just make money selling their wares as great holiday gifts for everyone on your list, but many of the merchants also travel long distances to be here and give of their time, donate wreaths, coupons, and discounts to support our efforts.

November 15th | Sponsored by Belk $30.00 each | 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Before the market opens to the general public.This is a stroller-free, crowd-free shopping event. Ticket includes continental breakfast, Bloody Marys, and Mimosas! Must be 21 years or older to attend.

JLM’s impact on our community is a result of the many hours our members volunteer.

Each JLM member plays a role in Christmas Jubilee by not only donating her time, but also offering her financial support. Hundreds of hours of work go into making this event a success, and we could not pull it off without the support of each and every one of them! While every active and provisional member of JLM works a shift, the 2012 Christmas Jubilee committee members have also worked tirelessly to help make sure that this year’s market is the best yet. They continue to amaze me with their passion for our mission, generosity with time and support, inspiration, and drive!

I invite everyone to join us at JLM’s 2012 Christmas Jubilee held November 15-17 at Mobile’s Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds. With the commitment of our members, the combined support of our sponsors, the participation of our merchants, and the thousands of excited shoppers, JLM will be able to continue to make a significant impact on the quality of life in and around our community.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to learn more about Christmas Jubilee.

With sincerest appreciation,

Beth Sumlin Chair, Christmas Jubilee 33

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Sensational Shopping

Fabulous Food

Exciting Events

A

The Silent Auction at the Preview Gala is always chock full of must have packages. There are SO many great items ready for auction during Christmas Jubilee the list had to be a Top 11 list!!

TOP ELEVEN SILENT AUCTION ITEMS: 1 Handmade Christening Gown, slip, coat, booties, bib,

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void the crowds of Black Friday by getting a head start on your holiday shopping. Over 100 merchants from across the nation come together under one roof for three fabulous days of shopping at the 28th Anniversary of Christmas Jubilee! For the fifth year in a row, Christmas Jubilee has been recognized as a Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Event for November because of its great shopping, phenomenal special events, entertainment, and food.

The Christmas Jubilee Committee has worked tirelessly to ensure that this holiday market will be the answer to everyone on your shopping list. The best part is that as you shop the day (and night) away, you know that you’ll be helping to support the numerous local agencies and programs that Junior League of Mobile, Inc. works with to improve our community. Has shopping ever been so rewarding? In addition to shopping, be sure to start the season off with one of Coastal Alabama’s best events and opportunities. Enjoy….

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PREVIEW GALA

Wednesday, November 14th 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season by attending one of the year’s best events, the annual Preview Gala. Guests will be treated to the music of Roman Street while shopping this year’s market and bidding on one-of-a-kind silent auction items. Local chef Georgia Roussos will also be tempting our taste buds with delicious dishes that combine both her Greek and Southern heritages. A 2011 Taste of Mobile “Best Overall Independent” winner, we are delighted to have Georgia join our event this year. Twist Cupcakes will provide dessert from their vast array of wonderful cupcakes. Preview Gala always offers the best food, shopping and entertainment!

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JUBILEE ARTWALK

Jubilee Artwalk is a wonderful opportunity to find the perfect gift for that “hard to buy” person and an excellent way to give back to your community. It is cash and carry, and artists will replenish their work daily throughout the market (from Preview Gala through the close of market on Saturday), so visit more than once to see what’s new!

Jubilee Artwalk is celebrating its fifth year as a Christmas Jubilee event and has continued to grow and become more popular each year. This year will include a wide variety of mediums such as oils, watercolors, photography, ceramics and wood art from many talented local and regional artists. Artwalk also features student artwork from JLM’s own YADA House. The JLM signature project YADA (Young Aspirations Discovering Art) House is a weekly after-school program that enables high school students to explore various mediums, interact with other students, and work with local artists building knowledge, portfolios, confidence and self-esteem.

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bonnet, blanket, socks, burp pad and bloomers by JLM member Susan Finizola Alabama Football Package: With signed AJ McCarron Football.

Clean Sweep: Have your house, car AND pet cleaned while a certified Nanny watches your children and you enjoy a spa treatment massage.

Fabulous Jewelry: Provided by Claude Moore Jeweler.

Several Beach Vacation Packages with Gulf Front Condos, activities, and dinner gift certificates for the family included.

Battle House Hotel Package: Enjoy a stay at the Battle House with a spa package for two.

Pet Package: Care for your pet with a spay/neuter gift certificate and annual shots gift certificate from Moffett Road Veterinary Clinic, a gift basket from B&B Pet Stop, grooming, and boarding.

Food/Wine Package: Featuring a bottle of 2001 Pine Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon, wine tasting party at Red or White and cooking classes.

New You Package: Featuring SunRise Dermatology procedures, Pure Barre Classes, Bakrim Yoga, Bodies by Cindy, gift basket of hair salon hair products and a teeth whitening system from Alabama Family Dental.

Christmas Jubilee 2013 Shift and 2013 Junior League of Mobile Placement credit: For Junior League of Mobile members only.

CJ Merchant Shopping Spree

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Come bid on these fabulous packages at the Preview Gala on Wednesday, November 14. If you miss or miss out at the Preview Gala, several of the packages, such as the Children’s Birthday Party Package and Merchant Shopping Spree, will be up for auction during Girls’ Night Out and VIP Shopping. You can also bid online through the week of Christmas Jubilee for a 2013 Christmas Jubilee shift and a 2013 Christmas Jubilee placement credit! Keep watching for updates to the Silent Auction list.

FOOD COURT

Yummy! Take a break from your shopping to enjoy delicious food from local vendors: Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Wintzell’s Oyster House, Little Caesars Pizza, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, and more additions to come.

For the fifth year in a row, Christmas Jubilee has been recognized as a Southeastern Society’s Top 20 Event for November.

VIP SHOPPING EVENT

Thursday, November 15 from 8:30 a.m. -10:30 a.m. VIP Shopping is from 8:30 a.m.

-10:30 a.m. before the market opens to the public on Thursday November 15th. For our serious shoppers who want a peaceful, stroller-free, crowd-free shopping experience before the market opens to the general public. Light breakfast, mimosas and bloody marys will be served for your enjoyment. Sponsored by Belk and Naman’s Catering, Krispy Kreme, Pollman’s and Fresh Market, among other wonderful vendors. This is a 21+ event.

Select merchants offer 10% off to VIP Shoppers. Tickets are $30.00 per person.

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

Friday, November 16 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Need an escape from kids, work, or whatever is tying you down? Grab your girlfriends for a fun “night around town” at Girls’ Night Out on the Friday night during Christmas Jubilee. Your experience will include a fabulous fashion show and private shopping experience from Private Gallery. It will also include delicious bites from Baumhower’s Restaurant, Georgia Roussos catering, Chat-a-Way Cafe, and The BLUEGILL Restaurant among others. The night is topped off with an open bar with a specialty cocktail, just for girls like us. Dance the night away, pick up some fun, new accessories in our auction event, take an artsy photo booth picture, or just hang out with the gals. This year, Christmas Jubilee is open until 9:00 p.m. to allow time to shop after the Girls’ Night Out ends! Tickets are $35.00 per person.

SANTA BREAKFAST

Saturday, November 17 at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Create a special holiday memory with your little ones! Arts and crafts, storytelling, and – best of all - breakfast with Santa. You and your children can come to the 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. seating to eat a delicious breakfast from Chick-fil-A, visit with Santa, decorate Christmas cookies and listen to the Mobile Public Library’s Val Thompson read our favorite stories of the season. Tickets sell out quickly, so purchase one for each person attending and enjoy this fabulous holiday event. No strollers please. Tickets are $15.00 per person.

HALL OF WREATHS SILENT AUCTION As

shoppers enter Junior League of Mobile’s Christmas Jubilee, they will pass through a Hall of Wreaths. Don’t miss a chance to add a bit of panache to your home by purchasing an exquisite wreath made and donated by local area individuals, agencies, merchants, and JLM members. We are also proud to display and sell student created wreaths donated by local schools. The Hall of Wreaths is a silent auction beginning the night of the Preview Gala and lasting until noon on Saturday, November 17, the last day of the Market. For the instant gratification set, the “Buy It Now” option enables you to take these beautiful wreaths with you when you’ve completed your shopping.

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“Must See” 2012 Top 10

NEW MERCHANTS 1 Houy & Associates - Clearwater, FL. Specializes in selling Strawberry Tree Farms Gourmet Foods. Their assortments include gourmet breads, seasonings, breakfasts, soups, and desserts that deliver fantastic taste with incredible ease.

2 Pennington & Bailes - Gainesville, FL. Specializes in collegiate logo apparel, stadium polos, embroidered pants, game day clothing…all with a classic style and a preppy flair. (Featured on “Today”) 3 Pink Lemonade Designs - Tampa, FL. Offers hair bows, wreaths, picture frames and More! All wreaths, picture frames, and bows are original designs that can be customized with whatever colors and/or teams you want!

4 A Little Shoppe - Satsuma, AL. Home decor, framed art, and more! Huge selection of fine gifts for all ages, including elegant baby and children gifts.

5 Tin Roof Cutting Boards - Sugar Land, TX. Offering a selection of the finest, hand crafted cutting boards available, each unique and individually handmade from the finest wood. They aim to enhance the cooking experience by bringing together exquisite form and durable functionality.

6 Eagles Nest Outfitters - Asheville, NC. Inspiring and motivating individuals to go outdoors by specializing in the highest quality hammocking systems, camping/ lifestyle products, and many more fun travel accessories perfect to accompany any adventure or relaxing venture in the outdoors.

7 Artist Tree by Dondee Hicks - Dothan, AL. Whether it’s birthday, baby, holiday, wedding, team spirit, or summertime that inspires you, Artist Tree caters to it by designing creative one-of-a-kind door hanger products and gifts for the home.

8 Paper Buds - Mobile, AL. Featuring personalized stationery for every occasion, including notes and notepads, photo notes, cards, embossed personal stationery, invitations and announcements, personalized gifts and much more!

9 Stray Cats Home Décor - Childersburg, AL. Stray Cats handcrafts furniture to hook racks from reclaimed materials. They rescue, recycle, and reuse salvage material from old barns and farm houses, creating unique pieces that are both functional and fabulous.

10 Geez Louise Boutique - Gulf Shores, AL. Geez Louise (“The Everything Boutique”) specializes in the latest fashionable trends in clothing, jewelry, and accessories to a variety of quality products from wedding or birthday gifts to candles, picture frames, and inspirational gifts.

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Author’ Auth s orner

C

Signed books make great holiday gifts!

The Author’s Corner, in conjunction with Barnes & Noble Eastern Shore Centre, will host authors from along the Gulf Coast as well as nationally published authors. Stop by Author’s Corner to get your personalized copy of the latest architectural, children’s, cookbooks, home & garden, local history, nature & wildlife, fiction, and special occasions books.

A few examples of authors who will be making an appearance at Author’s Corner are:

Architectural

Jim Fraiser will be appearing to sign copies of his book, The Majesty of Mobile. “An important part of Mobile history lies in the foundations of its realty. Each of the city’s 1800s structures has a story to tell and all are included in this collection of more than sixty profiles. Enhancing each building’s character are additions, renovations, and residents’ personalities.” – Pelican Publishing

Children’s Books

Junior League of Mobile, Inc. member Lori Taylor will be signing copies of her book, Squirrelly Celebration. “With lots of imagination and some prayer, Lori Taylor turned a squirrel invasion in her home’s attic into a children’s book and a new career. It all started in 2010

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when Taylor said she and her family heard noises in the attic. Squirrelly Celebration, a children’s rhyming book, follows four squirrels through the year as they celebrate all the holidays.” – Christie Lovvorn

Home & Garden

North Carolina native Melissa Bigner will be at Author’s Corner signing her book, Southern Bouquets.

“Finally, a flower-arranging guide that gets it right. In Southern Bouquets, Charleston stylists Melissa Bigner and Heather Barri bypass the usual fussy centerpieces in favor of loose, naturallooking displays that mere mortals can replicate.” – Country Living magazine

Local History

A signed copy of The Rise and Decline of the ‘Redneck Riviera’: An Insider’s History of the Florida-Alabama Gulf Coast written by Harvey H. Jackson III will be a great gift for those history buffs on your shopping list. “Harvey H. Jackson III focuses on the stretch of coast from Mobile Bay and Gulf Shores, Alabama, east to Panama City, Florida—an area known as the “Redneck Riviera.”

Jackson explores the rise of this area as a vacation destination for the lower South’s middle- and working-class families following World War II, the building boom of the 1950s and 1960s, and the emergence of the Spring Break season.” – University of Georgia Press

Nature & Wildlife

Bill Finch, senior fellow at the Ocean Foundation and executive director of the Mobile Botanical Gardens will be signing his book Longleaf, Far as the Eye Can See. “Part natural history, part conservation advocacy, and part cultural exploration,

this book highlights the special nature of longleaf forests and proposes ways to conserve and expand them.” – University of North Carolina Press

Novels

Bobbie Ann Mason will be appearing at Author’s Corner to sign copies of her novel, inspired by her father-inlaw’s wartime experiences. The Girl in the Blue Beret is a beautifully woven story of love, war, and second chances.

USA Today praised this book, saying, “Ushering her readers back and forth across the decades, Bobbie Ann Mason perfectly weaves history with fiction. In many ways, the book is a tribute to these unsung civilians whose heroism often was never acknowledged by those they helped.... a near- perfect war story.”

Special Occasions

Natural born entertainer Danielle Rollins will appear to sign copies of her book, Soiree: Entertaining with Style. Rollins, a preeminent host and tastemaker, invites you to the most chic at-home parties, with detailed descriptions for invitations, flowers, table settings, linens, and more than 80 original recipes. Veranda calls Danielle Rollins a “genuine expert - a natural born entertainer,” and in her first book Rollins invites readers into her world of elegant, accomplished entertaining. Featuring events both intimate (a New Year’s Eve dinner) and grand (a fundraiser), all 15 parties emphasize hosting guests with grace and ease at home.

Don’t miss the opportunity to meet all of the authors during their scheduled times.

Scan the QR code

with your smartphoneto stay up to date as new authors are added and the signing schedule is finalized.

Christmas

Jubilee

MERCHANTS

Christmas Jubilee chairs worked tirelessly to prepare for a wonderful shopping season.

Christmas Jubilee Chairs Beth Sumlin................................................ Chair Anne Clement............................................. Assistant Chair Anna Claire Sorey........................................ Art Walk Chair Dot Havard.................................................. Author’s Corner Chair Kayra Alt..................................................... Coke Cafe/Coffee Corner Chair Whitley Norman.......................................... Decorations Chair Paige Slaughter........................................... Food Court Chair Amy Groves................................................. Girls’ Night Out Chair Lisa Harris................................................... Hall of Wreaths Chair Melanie Elliott............................................. Headquarters Chair Jenny Humphreys....................................... Logistics/Operations Chair Courtney Everette....................................... Merchant Chair Amanda Squires.......................................... Assistant Merchant Chair Courtney Walker.......................................... Merchant Lounge Chair Erica Chavers............................................... Printing Chair Christy Bishop............................................. Preview Gala Chair Casi Callaway.............................................. Publicity Chair Emi Baggett................................................ Santa Breakfast Chair Rebecca Satterwhite................................... Silent Auction Chair Kelly Crabtree.............................................. Staffing Co-Chair Valerie Hines............................................... Staffing Co-Chair Dana Smallwood......................................... Ticket Chair Celia Stewart............................................... Treasurer Leah Ladner................................................ Assistant Treasurer Hadley Binion.............................................. VIP Shopping Chair

Christmas Jubilee Committee Members Shannon Harris........................................... Decorations Volunteer Jennifer Hartley.......................................... Decorations Volunteer Melanie Smith............................................. Decorations Volunteer Joanna Boguski........................................... Food Services Volunteer Jennifer Carpenter....................................... Food Services Volunteer Krystle Hinton............................................. General Volunteer Kristy Evans................................................. Girls’ Night Out Volunteer Judy Cantey................................................. Hall of Wreaths Volunteer Gayle Shoultz.............................................. Merchant Lounge Volunteer Melynda Strong.......................................... Preview Gala Volunteer Julia Carrington........................................... Printing Volunteer Mallory Carey.............................................. Publicity Volunteer Bunky Ralph ............................................... Publicity Volunteer Heather Fowler........................................... Santa Breakfast Volunteer Erika Cruz ................................................... Silent Auction Volunteer Kristen Reid................................................. Silent Auction Volunteer Susan Wright............................................... Staffing Volunteer Amanda Muscat.......................................... Staffing Volunteer Alison Tomlinson......................................... Ticket Volunteer Beth Eisenbeis............................................. Ticket Volunteer Linda McDuffie............................................ VIP Shopping Volunteer

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• A Grand Entrance • AL’s 5 &10 • A Little Shoppe • Accessories Galore • Adorations • All Things Gallery • All of Us • Andree’s Wine, Cheese & Things • Artist Tree • B Boutique Inc. • Bella Boutique • Bellingrath Gardens & Home • C & L Country • Caroline Rheel • Cherchies Specialty Foods • Coast Towns • Cutco Cutlery • D’Marie • Dance Depot • Darby Creek/ Rand Hill Inc. • Deli Direct • Designer Warehouse • Diamondhead Pearl Company • Discovery Toys • Do Your Dream Designs • Dress U • EZ Hang Chairs • Eagles Nest Outfitters • Event Sales • Extra Point Publishers • Fairhope Favorites, Inc • Fairies ‘n Frogs • Fantasy Island Toys • Four Seasons • Four Seasons Photography • Geez Louise Boutique • Glitz Galore-N-More

• Glitz and Glamour II, LLC. • Go Jump In The Lake • Heather Pierce Designs • House of Ruth • Houy and Associates • Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique • It’s Good On Ya • It Works! Global • Jackson’s On The Square • Jewel of Havana • Judy’s Gifts & Jewelry • Juniper Lily • Just Ask Creations • Kay’s Jewelry • Kitchen Craft • Knicks • LA Spice House. LLC. • Laci-May’s Monograms & More • Lemon Drop • Letters by Design • Marcie-N-Me • Meggie B’s Gifts & More • Merriepennies • Metzger’s • MiBags • Minnie Belle Jewels • Mix for Chixs • Notably You • Nuts Over Toffee • PK Fine Imports, Inc. • Papa Lou’s Homemade Fudge • Paper Buds • Pennington and Bailes • Pink Lemonade Designs • Polish Boutique • Prayersontheside • Purdy Gurl Boutique

• Robicheaux’s Specialty Candy Inc. • Savvy Gourmand • Say It So • Scentsy Wickless Candles • Scrapping Frenzy • Seconds on Sage • Shalla Wista Studio • Silver Ole • Simply Squared Designs • Sophia Designs • Southern Flair • Stafford Enterprises • Stella & Dot by Kristen Stacey • Stray Cats Home Décor • Sunken Cellar • Sunshine Imports/ Shan Collections • Tanner’s Pecan Company, Inc. • The Antique Cottage • The Berry Patch • The Brown Pelican • The Spotted Pony Boutique • The Visitation Shop • Tin Roof Cutting Boards • Tupperware • Twist Cupcakes • Two Wired • Under Wraps • Usborne Books and More • Vascular Center of Mobile • Vintage Vogue • Wee Exchange/ Little Monkey Toes • Wee Line Doll Clothing • Yonna’s Fashion • You Name It • Zeal Boutique

Participating merchants as of Sept. 7, 2012.

holiday 2012 |

37

promoting volunteerism

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| holiday 2012

unior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) is a powerhouse supporter of the community, contributing over $1 million in direct financial and volunteer support throughout Mobile and Baldwin Counties each year. In order to do this, JLM must first raise the funds that are dispersed to agencies and programs in need. JLM has a rich history of successful fundraising programs to help achieve this mission. A newer addition to JLM’s fundraising efforts is the Blue Pass, a shopping pass that offers 20% off at local merchants during a 10-day period. “In its third year, Blue Pass is continuing to grow and is a great addition to the lineup of fundraisers for JLM. It’s a low-cost investment for the League and no up-front cost to participating merchants, making it a recipe for success,” shared Blue Pass Chair, Amanda Gonzales.

How does Blue Pass benefit everyone? First, it’s a win for YOU the purchaser, as you get a 20% discount, with limited exclusions, at over 100 merchants throughout Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Second, it’s a win for the merchants as more buyers are motivated to visit their location (and hopefully visit again in the future) and finally it’s a BIG win for the community. The money raised from Blue Pass is placed back into the community through JLM’s mission work.

Here is how it works. JLM secures area merchants willing to participate in Blue Pass by offering pass holders a 20% discount during the designated shopping period, October 26 through November 4, 2012. There is no up-front cost to the Merchants, and they are able to set their own exclusions. The only thing JLM asks is that the merchant offer a 20% discount during the shopping period. Shoppers enjoy the extra savings available only to Blue Pass holders at over 100 merchants throughout Mobile and Baldwin Counties during the 10-day shopping period. Yet the biggest “win” is the local community because the money raised funds JLM’s mission. One part of the mission helps 34 programs within 21 charitable organizations JLM supports through time and money.

Blue Pass Committee Chairs: Amanda Gonzales...............Chair Melissa Hughes...................Assistant Chair Stephanie Caulder...............Treasurer Amy McCoy.........................Merchant Chair Erin Rutledge......................Assistant Merchant Chair Penny Hatcher.....................PR/Marketing Chair Lucy Pryor-Brady.................Sales Chair Ashley Davis........................Printing Chair

Volunteers: Jamie Cooper......... Baldwin County Merchant Volunteer Selah Dryer............ Baldwin County Merchant Volunteer Lisa Grosscup......... Baldwin County Merchant Volunteer Melissa Moran........ Baldwin County Merchant Volunteer Natalie Dodson....... Mobile County Merchant Volunteer Laura Greer............ Mobile County Merchant Volunteer Laurie Lightcap...... Mobile County Merchant Volunteer Aimee Risser.......... Mobile County Merchant Volunteer Jennifer Cooley....... PR/Marketing Volunteer Mary Lee Gay......... PR/Marketing Volunteer Robin Lee............... Sales Volunteer

The cost of the pass is only $30. A few lunches, a new shirt and perhaps a sweet dessert later during the 10-day period and you’ve earned your money back! “We really encourage our members and the community to support this fundraiser by purchasing a Blue

Pass. Most of us shop much more than we realize, especially this time of year.

Many restaurants, shops, and service providers are participating so there are some great opportunities to use your pass and, thus, give back to the community,” added Gonzales.

Great $avings from

Great Retailers • Adrenaline • Agave Mexican Restaurant • Alterations and Creations • Analece Design/ Bayside Beads • Ander’s Bookstore • Animal Hospital of Mobile • Ashland Gallery • ATA Martial Arts • Atchison Imports • Ballins • Baumhower’s Wings of Mobile • Bay Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry • Bella Boutique • Blair’s Nursery & Gifts • Bliss Bridal • Blue Rents • BLUEGILL Restaurant • Boxwood Home and Garden • Bradford B Liles DMD • Bronstein’s Fine Furniture • Brown Eyed Girl • Calagaz Photo • Carousel Kids • Carpet Specialist • Carter and Company • Chill Yogurt Café • Christmas Round the Corner • CK Collection • Claude Moore Jeweler • Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt • Collage (gift shop in Mobile Museum Art) • Cotton Capers • Deese Dentistry • Designer Collection • Dillon G Boutique • Do Your Dream Designs-Gotta be by the Water • Doll Whiskers • Doncaster Mobile • Dragonfly • East Bay Clothiers • East Bay Engraving & Gallery • Eastern Shore Antiques • Elizabeth’s Garden • EveryBody Solution

• Fabric Warehouse • Fairhope Pharmacy • Family Pharmacy of Springhill • Felix’s Fish Camp Restaurant • Femme • Flour Girls Bakery • Francesca’s Collections • Free Spirit • French Tip Nail Spa • Fuego Coastal Mexican Eatery • Fusion Spa Salon • Gigi and Jays • Gigi’s Cupcakes of Mobile • Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center • Gwin’s Stationery • Hemline • Holiday, Inc • Interior Motives • It’s Inviting • Janie Long Photography • Jeff Tesney Photography • JJ Eyes • JT’s Imaginarium-Antiques, Art & Collectibles • Jubilee Gift Shop • Kati Nelson Photography • Kids Kottage • Laser and Skincare Center of Mobile • Laura Cantrell Photography • Lily Pads Children’s Consignment Boutique • Louise Doggett Antiques • Lulu & Me • Lyons Share Custom Frame and Gallery • M.A. Simons • Mama’s on Dauphin • Marcie-N-Me • Metzger’s • Middle Bay Clothing Company • Midtown Antiques • Mimo’s Neighborhood Eats and Drinks • Mobile Weightloss Center • Moo Che Che Frozen Yogurt Bar

• Mr. Genes Beans • Old Shell Rd. Small Animal Clinic • Paint & Pals Studio • Paper Buds (inside five gold monkeys) • Personally Yours Of Fairhope • Polish Boutique • Polka Dot Letters • Polka Tot Designs • Private Gallery • Pure Barre • R Bistro & Pastry • Rabbit Creek Studios • Sadie’s • Sarabeth’s Florist • Seconds on Sage • Sew Unique • Simply Divine • Something New • Southern Art & Framing • St Paul’s Campus Store • Sweet Serendipity • The Blind Mule • The Colony Shop, Inc • The Fairhope Connection • The Fairhope Salon & Spa • The Gallery Shoe Boutique • The Gift Shop at Oakleigh • The Gilded Nest • The Ivy Cottage • The Shed BBQ and Blues Joint • The Timeless Bride • The Visitation Shop • The Wash House • Tiny Town • Two Sisters Bakery & Deli • Urban Emporium • Very Vintage • Villa Décor • Vivian’s Nails • Wildflowers • Wine Loft Bar and Restaurant • WMCM Studio • Yellow House Antiques and Interiors • Zimlich’s Patio & Garden Center Participating merchants as of Sept. 6, 2012.

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promoting volunteerism

Junior League of Mobile Annual Report 2011-2012 President’s Message

C

elebrating its 81st year of service to our community, the Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) had a successful 2011-2012 fiscal year that can be summed up in two words – Gung Ho! The year’s JLM theme, Gung Ho, based on the book by Ken Blanchard, centered around three principles for which our organization modeled our service – Worthwhile Work, In Control of Achieving the Goal, and Cheering Others On. JLM’s diverse membership of more than 1,800 women gave more than 29,000 cumulative hours to JLM’s mission and impacted more than 6,900 lives through 39 programs in partnership with 19 nonprofit agencies in Mobile and Baldwin counties. This investment, coupled with JLM’s budget spent funding its mission, equated to an economic impact of more than $1.6 million.

JLM’s members accomplished lots of worthwhile work during 2011-2012.

This past year, we began a new partnership with the Center for Family and Community Development Community Gardens at Dumas Wesley for a yearround placement aimed at promoting healthy communities, expanded our partnership with Bay Area Food Bank for our Mobile County and Baldwin County Backpack Programs to serve four schools, and expanded the partnership with Family Promise into Baldwin county. In addition, JLM partnered

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with the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council’s Worlds of Opportunities to host its VIP breakfast to kick-off the workforce development event that reached more than 9,500 8th graders in Southwest Alabama.

JLM also streamlined the process for its Community Assistance Fund and granted more than $14,000 in funds to very deserving community agencies.

In addition, JLM hosted more than 150 agencies and two Community Collaboration workshops featuring nationallyknown community leadership trainers in the areas of Governance and Community Impact Measurement.

JLM oversaw and organized high-level member trainings throughout the year, re-energized the sustainer program, and organized fun social and cultural membership appreciation events throughout the year. JLM’s provisional class of 120 women implemented three community projects at Child Day Care Association, St. Mary’s Home, and Penelope House.

Communications efforts for JLM ramped up with a coordinated interactive program that included daily social media posts on Twitter and Facebook, engaging members at General Membership Meetings through social media, and managing updates on JLM’s public and member web sites. InLeague, the bi-monthly member publication, got a redesign, and PR efforts placed JLM in the spotlight on news outlets monthly.

The 2011-2012 year was another incredible year for JLM’s fundraising efforts, which are crucially important to JLM’s mission because these funds

not only provide the resources JLM needs to improve communities, but also provide leadership opportunities and training for our members to hone their skills. In its third year, our Blue Pass Charity Shopping pass fundraiser saw heightened awareness and engaged a record number of people, with more than 270 passes sold and more than 100 merchants participating. The annual Christmas Jubilee, in its 27th year, continued to be our largest and most profitable fundraiser. Seconds on Sage, which has been a part of the community for more than 76 years, launched an all-new spring event, Project Rummage.

In addition, we continued to promote JLM’s Endowment Fund to secure JLM’s future. We sold out of our Bay Tables and Best of the Bay cookbooks. And, the organization closely evaluated the dues increase from AJLI and the impact of that increase on JLM, resolving to increase dues beginning in 2012-2013 for provisionals and actives.

JLM began its new Impact Area Selection Process this year. Phase 1 included a Member Assessment with more than 600 member responses about the areas they want to see JLM working in, leading to the membership selecting a topic of Education and seven possible issues.

Phase 2, the Community Assessment, surveyed more than 350 community leaders about those issues and how JLM could make a difference. JLM set forth a new rolling 3-Year Strategic Plan and approved a new permanent Governance Chair position on the JLM Board. Additionally, JLM developed a 100-Year Anniversary Timeline and approved a

JUNIOR LEAGUE MISSION STATEMENT The Junior League of Mobile, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

VISION The Junior League of Mobile, Inc. will make a measurable impact by enriching our community through support in areas of focus regarding children and education.

2011-2012 Board of Directors new signature project for JLM to begin in 2012-2013, the Building Capacity Project, a nonprofit incubator staffed by JLM members to build capacity in local community agencies. Based on training from a leading governance expert, JLM restructured its governance committee to work in tandem with nominating and developed policies to re-establish a Public Affairs Committee that will help JLM in the future be able to take action on issues that affect us locally, regionally, and nationally.

The achievements of JLM’s members were countless and their work worthwhile – strengthening and empowering not only our own 1,800-plus member organization, but also our community.

JLM is poised to thrive under the leadership of Katy Sullivan and the 2012-2013 board of directors as they celebrate an amazing 82nd year for JLM doing “Work that Matters.” Thank you to all of our members, community partners, sponsors, and friends who invested in our organization to help JLM continue to achieve its mission of developing women, promoting volunteerism, and improving communities.

Best regards,

Jennifer Jenkins President, 2011-2012 41

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Jennifer Jenkins: President Katy Sullivan President-Elect Lori Lightcap Communications Vice-President Mary Carol Ladd Community Vice-President Faye Olensky Finance Vice-President Lynn Davidson Membership Development Vice-President Andrea Moore Planning and Research Vice-President Leslie Johnson Treasurer Mary Helen Strain Recording Secretary Kate Simm Nominating Chair Sandy Foster Governance Chair Gail Tart Sustaining Advisor

2011-2012 Community Advisory Council Members Gigi Armbrecht AT&T Darrelyn Bender Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Joseph H. Busta, Jr., Ph.D. University of South Alabama Steve Chiepalich, CPA S.W. Chiepalich, CPA, PC Christopher T. Conte Helmsing, Leach, Herlong, Newman & Rouse Mary Stewart Crane Immediate Past President Mark E. Davidson, CFA Cornerstone Investment Mgmt. & Consulting Christopher L. Lee The JL Bedsole Foundation Merceria Ludgood Mobile County Commissioner Mary Mullins Mary Mullins Consulting Edward H. ”Bubba” O’Gwynn BB&T Davis Pilot Pilot Catastrophe

REACHING OUT STATEMENT The Junior League of Mobile, Inc. reaches out to women of all races, religions, and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to volunteerism.

CORE VALUES I. Leadership - JLM provides a motivating and supportive environment through continuous learning that encourages our members’ individual leadership potential in JLM and the community.

II. Sustainability - JLM is a continuously evolving organization drawing upon a rich legacy of improving our community, maintaining financial stability, and emphasizing a diverse, growing membership.

III. Collaboration - JLM values collaboration among its members as well as effective external partnerships to greater impact our community through coordinated resources.

IV. Compassionate Service - JLM makes meaningful contributions to our community through volunteer action and community leadership.

2011-2012 JLM Community Partners and Projects JLM’s five year focus areas from 2009-2010 through 2013-2014 are Children and Education. Within those focus areas, JLM supports programs to assist in the following issues: Art Education: Dearborn YMCA Summer Arts Program | YADA (Young Artist Discovering Art) House* At Risk Youth: Penelope House Abuse Prevention | St. Mary’s Home Therapeutic Foster Care | Wilmer Hall Residential Program | Dumas Wesley Youth Empowered Healthy Communities: Distinguished Young Women Be Your Best Self Day* | Bay Area Food Bank Backpack Program – Mobile and Baldwin | Camp Rap-A-Hope Hope Goes to the Hospital | Family Promise Interfaith Hospitality Network Support | Youth Leadership Mobile | Community Assistance Fund* | Community Collaborations* | Wilmer Hall on the Run Transitional Living | Kids in the Kitchen* | Downtown Walking Tour* | The Center for Family and Community Development Community Garden Job Readiness: Young Women Scholarship* | Penelope House Transitional Living | St. Mary’s Home Transitional Living | Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council - Worlds of Opportunities Literacy: Dearborn YMCA Reading Buddies | Goodwill Easter Seals Family Literacy | Goodwill Easter Seals Read to Me | Book It */Reading is Fundamental | Mobile Public Library Summer Reading Program School Readiness: Exploreum Wharf of Wonder Special Needs: Woody’s Song/Mobile Museum of Art Creative Arts Program | Mobile Preschool for the Sensory Impaired Project Possible | The Little Tree Holiday Helpers | The Little Tree Positive Parenting | United Cerebral Palsy Playground Fun | United Cerebral Palsy Camp Smile *Denotes a JLM Signature Project operated entirely by JLM. If JLM withdraws support from this project, it will cease to exist.

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2011-2012 JLM Community Statistics Agency and Project

Number of Money Spent Lives Impacted

Focus Area

Outreach Programming

Agency and Project

Direct Agency Programming

Child Advocacy Center

5,000.00

Bay Area Food Bank

Distinguished Young Women Day of Caring

2,955.46

Backpack Program - Mobile County (served children at Spencer and Westlawn Elementary Schools)

Community Assistance Fund 15,073.64

180

Healthy Communities

Backpack Program - Baldwin County (served children at Loxley and Silverhill Elementary Schools)

15,009.14

106

Healthy Communities

908.27

20

Healthy Communities

2,049.29

150

Healthy Communities

Hope Goes to the Hospital Center for Family and Community Development Community Gardens Dearborn YMCA Summer Arts Program

273.15

30

Art Education

Reading Buddies

18.67

39

School Readiness

Dumas Wesley Youth Empowered

Focus Area Healthy Communities

100

Healthy Communities

Granted funds to:

Camp Rap-A-Hope

1,730.95

50

Job Readiness

- Boys & Girls Club of South Alabama, Inc. - Housing First/MCPSS Homeless Education Program - Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA

12,200.00

Community Collaborations

Healthy Communities

2,548.18

106

Done in a Day - Toy Drive

499.65

100

Imagination Library

5,040.76

291

Literacy

Kids in the Kitchen

397.01

8

Healthy Communities

Leadership Mobile

5,000.00

3

Healthy Communities

8,982.71

1239

Healthy Communities

Downtown Walking Tour

1,991.32

1031

Healthy Communities

Reading is Fundamental/Book-It!

1,259.90

90

Literacy

Healthy Communities

Provisional Projects:

Exploreum Wharf of Wonder

4,388.15

658

School Readiness

IHN - Mobile County

4,696.54

113

Healthy Communities

IHN - Baldwin County

3,369.60

9

Healthy Communities

Family Promise Of Coastal Alabama

Child Day Care Association: Playground Refurbishment Penelope House: JV/Reading Room Makeover/Art St. Mary’s Home: Foyer Renovation

Goodwill Easter Seals Family Literacy

1,744.93

Read to Me

0

12 700

Literacy Literacy

Mobile Public Library

Sponsorships

3,002

Summer Reading Program

Youth Scholarship Awards

2,000

3

Job Readiness

5,889.82

18

Art Education

2,989

747.73

900

Literacy

Penelope House

YADA

Abuse Prevention

2,000.00

40

At Risk Youth

Outreach Programming Totals

$56,766.81

Transitional Living

4,816.78

19

Job Readiness

Preschool for Sensory Impaired

Baldwin County Community Worksite Allocated

$5,670.00

Project Possible

Salaries Allocated to Community

$8,025.49

Utilities Allocated to Community

$800.00

2,579.18

14

Special Needs

St. Mary’s Home

Healthy Communities

% of Budgeted Community Money Spent: 94.32%

Life Skills Education

1,582.85

15

Job Readiness

Therapeutic Foster Care

854.71

16

At Risk Youth

0

285

Job Readiness

2011-2012 Major Initiatives

Holiday Helpers

678.63

36

Special Needs

Positive Parenting

428.27

30

Special Needs

• Updated a 3-year rolling strategic plan. In 2009-10, JLM changed to a 3-year rolling plan from a 5-year strategic plan. The change has allowed JLM to identify issues and react to them sooner, whether they are internal or external.

South Alabama Workforce Development Coalition Worlds of Opportunity VIP Breakfast The Little Tree

United Cerebral Palsy Playground Fun

1,089.29

90

Special Needs

Camp Smile

6,306.09

340

Special Needs

Camp Smile Scholarships

3,060.00

9

Special Needs

Total Community Investment

$151,975.07

6,914

• Approved a 100-Year Anniversary Plan for JLM to identify a large-scale project and to fundraise for the project prior to the 100th year.

• Approved the addition of Governance Chair as a permanent position on the Board of Directors.

• Implemented Impact Area Research Plan for 2011-12 • Topic: Education

Wilmer Hall Residential Mentor Program

807.14

13

At Risk Youth

On the Run

1,564.72

9

Healthy Communities

• Narrowed: bullying, internet safety, stranger/danger, childhood obesity/nutrition, pre-school literacy, elementary literacy, and middle school literacy.

2,000.00

22

Healthy Communities

• Implemented new processes for selection, rating, agency agreement, and follow-up as part of JLM’s Community Assistance Fund.

2,935.05

20

Healthy Communities

$80,712.77

3,925

• Approved formation of an ad-hoc committee to review Seconds on Sage’s business model in light of decreasing financial performance.

Woody’s Song Mobile Museum of Art - Art Program Youth Leadership Mobile Dean of the YL Class Direct Agency Programming Totals

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Number of Money Spent Lives Impacted

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• Issues: Child Safety or Literacy

• Reviewed the 2-year pilot worksite in Baldwin County and approved moving the worksite to a more costeffective and usable space at Prodisee Pantry to store the Baldwin County community projects materials for placements.

2011-2012 JLM Fundraiser Stats Fundraiser

Description

Christmas Jubilee

In its 27th year, this holiday marketplace has helped JLM generate more than $3.5 million in support of community projects and outreach efforts. Festivities include a Gala Preview Party and Silent Auction, a Girls Night Out event, a Santa Breakfast for the little ones, and a 3-day shopping extravaganza at more than 110 merchants.

Seconds on Sage

The oldest fundraiser and community service program of JLM, Seconds on Sage celebrated its 76th year as a resale shop providing a service to the community by selling gently worn clothes, accessories, and housewares at reasonable prices.

Project Rummage

JLM’s newest fundraiser, Project Rummage was held to support and promote funds generated through Seconds and Sage. More than 800 people attended the Friday night preview sale and one-day Saturday rummage sale held at Seconds on Sage.

Endowment Fund

JLM’s Endowment Fund helps ensure the long-term financial stability of the organization for future generations. Once it reaches a point of pay-out, the interest generated annually will be used to further JLM’s mission.

Blue Pass

Begun in 2009-2010, the Blue Pass is JLM’s charity shopping pass enabling pass holders to enjoy discounts at more than 100 participating Mobile and Baldwin County retailers for a 10-day shopping period in late October.

Solicitations/ Gracious Giving

Developing donations from individuals and corporate sponsors is a vital part of JLM’s fundraising efforts. Approximately $90,000 was received in cash donations and more than $107,000 was received as in-kind donations. The Gracious Giving donations reported here were not designated to any one fundraiser.

2011-2012 Membership Our membership numbers at the end of 2011-2012 were:

Actives: ......................................641 Provisionals: .............................119 Prospective Members: ............108 Sustainers: ...............................1000

Volunteer Hours JLM had 655 members who gave approximately 30,000 volunteers hours to support its mission both in the Mobile and Baldwin communities and within the organization. The value of those volunteer’s hours is based on The Independent Sector’s estimated national average per hour for 2011.

2011 National Average Value/Hour*........ $21.79 JLM Volunteers............................................. 655 JLM 2011-2012 Volunteer Hours............... 29,396.01 Value of 2011-2012 Volunteer Hours........ $640,539 JLM 2011-2012 Expenses............................ $1,050,541 Total Financial Impact................................ $1,691,080 * 2011 Value of Volunteer Hour from The Independent Sector

2011-2012 Statement of Activities Revenue and Support

Seconds on Sage............................................................................................................................................$368,106 Christmas Jubilee...........................................................................................................................................$405,044 Membership Dues..........................................................................................................................................$200,519 Endowment Income Endowment Donations..............................................................................................................................$11,240 Market value (gains/losses).......................................................................................................................$(29,667) Other endowment investment income......................................................................................................$5,498 Reserve fund investment gains/losses...........................................................................................................$(1,334) Miscellaneous................................................................................................................................................$4,652 Other Donations.............................................................................................................................................$2,943 Blue Pass........................................................................................................................................................$1,094 Other Interest.................................................................................................................................................$100 Publications Net Revenue..............................................................................................................................$(4,077) folio Net Revenue...........................................................................................................................................$68 Total Revenue and Support..................................................................................................$964,186

Expenses

Seconds on Sage............................................................................................................................................$331,406 Program Services – Children, Education & Other............................................................................................$157,405 Community Outreach.....................................................................................................................................$55,647 AJLI Dues for National Programs....................................................................................................................$59,364 Membership Development............................................................................................................................$57,382 Communications............................................................................................................................................$30,578 Total Program Service Expense.......................................................................................................................$691,782 Supporting Services Management and general..............................................................................................................................$239,422 Fundraising/Christmas Jubilee.......................................................................................................................$144,744 Total Supporting Services Expense.................................................................................................................$384,166 Total Expenses.....................................................................................................................$1,075,948

Training and Leadership Academy Trainer(s) Topic Alison Black Cornelius ...............................Governance Pat Heiny & Mary Jo Clark .........................Building Effective Groups Mersey Whitehead ....................................Communication Workshop Vicki Clark....................................................Issue-Based Community Impact JLM................................................................Finding Grants AJLI...............................................................Webinar Wednesday

2011-2012 Sponsors and Donors Junior League of Mobile’s work in the community is made possible by the generous support of the following donors. These donors provide support directly to fundraisers such as Christmas Jubilee (CJ) and to JLM as a whole throughout the year.

Title Sponsor

WALA Fox 10/WFNA the CW

CJ Preview Gala Sponsor C Spire Wireless

CJ Special Event Area Sponsor Hancock Bank

sponsors & donors continued on pg. 50

Figures reflect the amounts based on financial statements audited by Steve Chiepalich, CPA for the year ending May 31, 2012. A copy is available at Junior League of Mobile’s office located at 57 N. Sage Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604

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Image courtesy of Nutdanai Apikhomboonwaroot / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

building a better community

Scan the QR code

with your smartphone to visit Prodisee Pantry’s website.

Battling Hunger in Baldwin County

by Cece Redmond

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ccording to recent economic reports, the United States is currently at the highest level of poverty since 1965. Baldwin County has felt the impact of a triple punch since the beginning of the 21st century. Residents have suffered through two major hurricanes, an oil spill, and significant job losses. From January 2009 to 2010, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Baldwin County lost more jobs than any other rural area in the United States.

According to the same report, Baldwin County’s unemployment rate was over 11 percent. Deann Servos, director of Prodisee Pantry in Spanish Fort, said, “I’ve seen more people with college educations needing assistance in the way of food, housing, and counseling because of the economic recession.” According to Servos, the lingering economic effects of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill combined with the slow recovery from the recession has created an extreme need for the most basic of human essentials. Baldwin County families in need, however, have found help at Prodisee Pantry.

for services and Prodisee’s expansion, it incorporated as a 501(c)3 non-profit in 2005. Additionally, in September 2011, a 16,000 square foot building on four acres was purchased to meet the growing demand. It is now the largest food provider in Baldwin County. According to Prodisee Pantry’s website, “In the past eight years, over 48,000 families made up of some 111,000 individuals from Baldwin County have received help from Prodisee Pantry.”

Prodisee Pantry is open to the public, without an appointment, on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. To qualify for the pantry’s assistance, families must visit its facility on Tuesdays and either complete a new application or update an existing one. The pantry is meant to supply emergency food to families.

Some families, however, have received assistance for an extended time, and, therefore, the pantry’s goal is to connect these families with other agencies and organizations that can fulfill their long-term needs. When families are interviewed, some qualify for USDA assistance and some do not. If they do not meet the USDA assistance guidelines, they are given food that has been donat-

ed to the pantry from outside sources. If they qualify for USDA assistance, they are given a box of groceries that has been purchased through the government program.

The food at Prodisee is free to anyone who needs it, but the largest percentage of the food is not donated. Most of the bulk food items are purchased through the Feeding America Organization (FAO). Kellogg’s, for example, sells large quantities of cereal to FAO; Bay Area Food Bank then purchases the cereal from FAO at pennies on the dollar, and Prodisee buys its staple grocery items from Bay Area. In 2010, more than 250 tons of food was distributed to needy families. However, in 2011, the number almost doubled; Servos explained, “We gave out over 470 tons last year.”

Prodisee also buys fresh produce and bakery items from local suppliers. In the summer, Servos noted, “Last week we had fresh peaches. People do not understand how expensive fresh produce is for a family who does not have an income. We tried to buy milk from local dairies, but we do not need the quantity to make a direct wholesale purchase

Between January and July 2012, 6,160 families visited Prodisee Pantry’s warehouse in Spanish Fort. The nonprofit’s mission is to provide love, hope, and comfort to families in crisis, and it has become Baldwin County’s largest food provider.

Prodisee Pantry’s motto is: “It’s about hunger; physical, emotional and spiritual.” The pantry started ten years ago as an outreach of Spanish Fort United Methodist Church. The program’s mission is to provide love, hope, and comfort to families in crisis. Prodisee Pantry, therefore, provides assistance to underemployed, unemployed, families in transition, grandparents raising grandchildren, retirees, and any Baldwin County resident who is facing a crisis.

Since its inception, the needs of the community have grown and so has Prodisee.

Between January and July 2012, for example, 6,160 families visited Prodisee Pantry. As a result of the growing need

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from the farmers.” Bruno’s and Food World Supermarkets, however, help by purchasing fresh milk at cost and then Prodisee reimburses them for the smaller quantities.

For Baldwin County families who do not live near Spanish Fort and have trouble traveling to Prodisee for help, Servos encourages them “to visit the facility on any Tuesday and we will interview them and then help them find a connection with someone located in their area or the food stamp office.” To help facilitate those connections, representatives from other local agencies are also at the pantry on Tuesdays. A few of the agencies on site include: Project Rebound, Mobile County Health Department, and South Alabama Volunteer Lawyers.

Wednesday nights,” Servos notes, “we have packed more than 400 boxes in 30 minutes.”

agencies and hope for donations to supply as many boxes with some extra treats for everyone who comes here.”

Once school begins, JLM, with Prodisee’s help, will offer even more help to hungry families. The backpack program provides school aged children meals when they are not in school. JLM’s Baldwin County Headquarters is housed at Prodisee Pantry’s building to help with the process. Any JLM member can use the office space, but JLM’s Backpack program is the main placement that utilizes the space. The food for the backpack program is bought through the pantry. Having JLM’s Baldwin County Headquarters and the Backpack program at Prodisee Pantry is, therefore, incredibly convenient.

For every $20 in food the pantry buys, Prodisee can give a hungry family $120 worth of groceries. To help with expenses, Prodisee hosts a few fundraisers. The Turkey Trot, a 5K and mile fun run, is Prodisee’s annual fund raising event. The third annual Turkey Trot will be held on October 27th through Old Towne Daphne. In addition to the Turkey Trot, Pennies for Prodisee is an ongoing fundraiser where anyone can donate their spare change. A large jar resides on the counter in the reception area to remind everyone who enters to share their spare change. All Bancorp South locations also collect pennies on behalf of Prodisee. Their goal is one million pennies, or $10,000; in September they had $6,800.

Prodisee, of course, also takes donations. Servos notes, “the best way to donate or help is through donations of pennies; save your pennies and bring them to us, or, any dollar amount can be donated through PayPal on our web site: www.prodiseepantry. org.” As a result of the generosity of others and the amazing work of Prodisee Pantry, anyone needing assistance can receive food, a prayer, and other help on any Tuesday from 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at 9315 Spanish Fort Blvd.

In addition to the Prodisee Pantry volunteers and other agencies, every Tuesday and Wednesday, Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM) members help Prodisee fulfill its mission. On Tuesdays, JLM members help families during the interview process, help take food boxes to the cars, and help pack boxes. Every Wednesday, JLM volunteers pack boxes that will be distributed the next Tuesday. Tracy Womack, Prodisee Pantry Chair, believes the placements are significant for JLM volunteers because it puts into perspective how easy it is to become a person in need. “AlProdisee Pantry volunteers stack boxes waiting to be filled with most anyone can be a paycheck, groceries and given to local families. or an illness, or a tragedy away from needing help,” explains Tracy, “and this placement is an opportunity In addition to Prodisee’s weekly help, for our volunteers to serve their comProdisee makes an extra effort at munity and meet those who are in need Thanksgiving and Christmas. The most face-to-face, and see it for what it is.” She painful side effect of job loss and poverty further explains, “sometimes we have is food insecurity. During the holidays this picture in our head of the ‘needy’ it is even more stressful. As a result of and what they are supposed to look like, the increased need during the holidays, when in reality the people you think are Prodisee will give out Thanksgiving boxin need aren’t really the people in need. es during the month of November that They could be you or me; they could be will be filled with a turkey, dressing, and anyone.” other food so that no family in Baldwin County has to go without a nice ThanksServos also appreciates the partnership giving dinner. Servos explains, “We with JLM. Servos says, “We love their make sure every box has a turkey for enthusiasm.” “They quickly learned what Thanksgiving and a ham or turkey for goes into a donation box and backpack.

Christmas. Holiday boxes are extremely With the help of the JLM volunteers on expensive; we work together with other

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Interested runners can register online Scan the QR code

with your smartphone to register for the Turkey Trot run.

building a better community

2012–2013

The Community Advisory Council T

he Community Advisory Council (CAC) is a select group of community leaders who share Junior League of Mobile, Inc.’s (JLM) values, goals, and objectives. These individuals are asked to participate based upon their extensive contributions to the community and their diverse professional experiences. “The role of the Community Advisory Council is to provide feedback on JLM’s programs from another perspective. They also promote JLM and the importance of our organization to the community,” said Katy Sullivan, JLM’s President.

Additionally, the council provides key support as JLM assesses its programs and resources and the impact that those services have on the community. Because of their unique backgrounds and varied experience, these individuals are able to look at the challenges that face the community and provide new perspectives and ideas on how JLM can move towards meeting them. The CAC consists of 13 members, including JLM’s immediate past-president and JLM’s attorney, financial advisor, and accountant. CAC members meet formally with JLM’s Board of Directors twice a year. Additionally, CAC members are invited to attend JLM’s Community Collaboration Meetings and special events throughout the year.

Orchestra and the Gulf Coast Symphony.

He serves in the Department of Music at the University of South Alabama as a faculty member. He graduated from the Juilliard School and has performed at Carnegie Hall. He has won numerous prizes in competitions throughout the country.

CAROLYN R. AKERS (2011-2012) is

the Founder and CEO of Mobile Area Education Foundation. She is currently on the executive boards for South Alabama Workforce Development Council, Mobile Works, A+ Education Foundation and Public Education Network. She served as JLM’s President from 1991-1992. Also, her mother, Jean Radcliff, served as President of JLM and her grandmother was a charter member of JLM. She has two children and one grandchild.

J.C. BARKER (2012-2015) is the Di-

rector of operations for the Mobile Symphony Orchestra. He is the principal clarinetist for both the Mobile Symphony

DARRELYN BENDER (2010-2013)

is the President and CEO of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. She is currently on the executive boards for Baldwin County United, Baldwin County Public Transit Coalition and the Blakeley Historic Park Board and Foundation. In addition, she is an active member of the State Board for the State of Alabama Department of Tourism and the Alabama Tourism Council. She has held many positions including Chairman of the Board of Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, President of Baldwin County United, Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance Board and the Economic Development Alliance of Alabama. She founded two organizations: Impact 100 Baldwin County and SouthcostalUSA. She has two children and one grandchild.

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2012-2013 Advisories

MARK E. DAVIDSON (2011-2012) is

JOHN BROWNING (2012-2015) is an

Attorney at Burr & Forman, LLP. He serves as JLM’s attorney and as such is an ex-officio member of the Community Advisory Council. He is a board member of the Alabama Defense Lawyers Association. He is involved with YMCA of South Alabama, Inc. His wife, Margaret Sue Browning, is a member of JLM; they have a daughter.

a Chartered Financial Analyst and serves as the Director of Investments for Cornerstone Investment Management, a firm he co-founded. He serves as JLM’s investment advisor and is an ex-officio member of the Community Advisory Council. Davidson is a past president of the Samford University Alumni Association and a prior member of the Board of Overseers for the University. He currently serves on the board of Hands on South Alabama and on the Mobile United Steering Committee.

He and his family are active members of Dauphin Way United Methodist Church, where he serves on the church council.

Davidson is married to JLM member Lynn Weeks Davidson; they have three children.

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the JLM’s immediate past president and is an ex-officio member of the Community Advisory Council. She is President of JJPR, LLC. She serves on the board of the Gulf Coast Exploreum and Science Center.

She has also been a board member for the Mobile Area Education Foundation, a past president of the Public Relations Council of Alabama at both the local and state level, and a member of the American Advertising Association - Mobile Bay. She is married to Jerry Jenkins, and they have three children.

MERCERIA LUDGOOD (2010-2013)

STEVE W. CHIEPALICH, CPA

(2011-2012) is an Alabama and Mississippi licensed certified public accountant, a chartered bank auditor, a certified internal auditor and a certified management accountant.

He has served as president of the Mobile chapter of the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants and on the society’s statewide governing council. Chiepalich is currently in private practice in Mobile and serves as JLM’s accountant. Chiepalich is, therefore, an ex-officio member of the Community Advisory Council. He is married to sustaining member Susan Chiepalich; they have two children.

JENNIFER JENKINS (2012-2013) is

BRYAN HACK (2011-2012) is the ex-

ecutive manager of Human Resources for Mobile County Public Schools. He is the past executive director of Human Resources of Konica Minolta Printing Solutions. His community involvement includes the Cub Scouts of America, Springhill Presbyterian Church, and Konica Minolta Colorful Tomorrow Foundation.

He has two children, who attend St. Paul’s.

is Mobile County Commissioner for District One. She has served on the boards of A+ Education Foundation and Mobile United. She lends her time to a number of organizations, including the Alabama Appleseed Center of Law and Justice, Boy Scouts of America, Alabama Commission on the Status of Women and Girls in the Criminal Justice System, Alabama State Bar Board of Commissioners, Mobile Bar Association Executive Committee, United Way Women’s Initiative and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women.

She has been selected for a prestigious

2012-2013 Advisories

Kellogg National Leadership Fellowship and also been a participant in both Leadership Mobile and Leadership Alabama. Ludgood is a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, where she serves as a Sunday School Teacher, Bible Class teacher, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and Youth Counselor.

She is married to Carlos Williams, Federal Defender for the Southern District of Alabama.

EDWARD H. “BUBBA” O’GWYNN

W. DAVIS PILOT, JR. (2011-2014) is

ALVERTHA B. PENNY (2012-2015)

The Junior League of Mobile, Inc. reaches out to women of all races, religions, and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to volunteerism.

Explore how you and your organization can connect with JLM.

(2010-2013) is the Senior Vice President and Area Executive of Mobile and Baldwin Counties for BB&T. He serves on the boards of the United Way of South Alabama and Junior Achievement. A graduate of Leadership Mobile, he has served as chair for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Chase campaign and for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation Walk. His community involvement includes membership in the Lions Club of Mobile, Senior Bowl Committee, Mobile Touchdown Club and service as Deacon at Springhill Presbyterian Church.

MARY A. MULLINS (2011-2014) is

principal of Mary Mullins Public Affairs Consulting. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Mobile Botanical Gardens. She was formerly Director of Public Affairs for Thyssenkrupp Stainless USA. She has served on the Steering Committee for Envision Coastal Alabama and formerly served on the Executive Committee of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. Mullins is a past board member of The Alabama Coastal Foundation, The Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation, the Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF), Keep Mobile Beautiful and the Mobile Arts Council. In addition, she has served on the Steering Committee of the GroundLevel Ozone Reduction Initiative (GLORI) and chaired Mobile United’s Natural Resources and Conservation Committee.

is President and CEO for the Community Foundation of South Alabama. Penny has served as Senior Vice President of Programs at the California Community Foundation. Also she served as Senior Advisor on community development issues at the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.

She currently serves on the Mobile Area Education Foundation and the Association of Black Foundation Executives. She is a member on the Rotary Club of Mobile.

She is married to Austin Penny, Jr.

President and CEO of Pilot Catastrophe Services, Inc. He currently serves on the boards for the Arthritis Foundation of Alabama, Outback America, Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce and UMS-Wright Preparatory School. Through Camp Grace, a local camp and recreational facility, Pilot is involved with a number of camps for children including Camp RapA-Hope, Camp M.A.S.H., Camp Sugar Falls, Camp Smile and Team Focus. He is actively involved with the Community Foundation of South Alabama, The Senior Bowl, McKenzie Place, Boys and Girls Club of South Alabama, the Child Advocacy Center of Mobile, Joey’s Jungle and the Kerri Costello Tennis Tournament benefiting St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. He is married to Debbie Pilot, and they have three children.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone for more info.

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sponsors & donors continued from pg. 43

d

Gold Sponsor

Belk Lamar Advertising of Mobile La-Z-Boy Wind Creek Casino & Hotel

Silver Sponsor

Bronstein’s Fine Furniture Mobile Press Register Regions Bank Bailey’s TV Barnes & Noble Booksellers Eastern Shore Claude Moore Jeweler Coca Cola Bottling Company Private Gallery Royal Cup Coffee Something New

Bronze Sponsor

Alabama Coast Magazine BB&T BankTrust Lotus Norton Lilly International Service Master Advanced Cleaning Summer Classics The Center for Reproductive Medicine Twist Cupcakes

Supporter

Alabama Power Company Battlehouse Hotel and Spa Baumhower’s Wings of Mobile Carwie Properities

Chick-fil-a Cookies by Design Debra’s Georgia Roussos Catering, Inc. Hand Arendall, LLC Laser and Skin Care Center of Mobile Meyer Vacation Rentals Mobile Carnival Museum Mobile Gas Naman’s Catering Olensky Brothers Office and School Supplies PMT Publishing Inc. (Mobile Bay Monthly) Port City Rentals Publix Ramsey Tree Farm Roman Street Saucy Q Bar B Que Space Savers Self Storage

Susan Hamil Finzola Wintzell’s Oyster House Zoes Kitchen

Friends

A Women’s Choice P.C. Beard Equipment Company Blue Gill Restaurant Chat-A-Way Cafe Steve Chiepalich Cooper Resturants Bonnie Fuchs Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa Hobby Lobby Hurricane Electronics, Inc. Kaiser Realty, Inc. Mobile Weight Loss Center NES Rentals Silver Lining Farm State Farm, Roger Shoultz Agent

The SSI Group, Inc. Wells Fargo

Patrons

Amy Garrison B Boutique Bellingrath Gardens and Home Debby Charlton Photography Dr. Bill Bodie Janee and Jo Bonner Chris and Ashley Brown Budweiser-Busch Distributors Co. Carriage Works Townhomes & Condominiums Crystal Ice Co. Cornerstone Investment Management and Consulting Sarah and Tom Damson Susan Finizola Forwood & LaGroue, LLC Certified Public Accountants GoDaddyBowl.com Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Hackbarth Delivery Service Honours Golf - Alabama Jennifer Jenkins Ashley & Leslie Johnson Jones Walker Kentwood Springs Lakewood Golf Club Little Caesars Mr. & Mrs. Bo Meggison Mobile Auburn Club Morgan Keegan & Co, Inc. Pollman’s Bakery Portrait Stories by Ginger Pure Barre Mobile Red or White Wine Ann & Danny Sirmon Southeastern Press Katy and Emil Sullivan The Computer Doctors The Hungry Owl The Little Gym of the Eastern Shore Todd Villareal University of South Alabama+A41 Athletics Verizon Wireless WABB Waite’s Cleaners

Donors

Access Magazine Alabama Family Dental Alabama Orthopedic Clinics B&B Pet Stop Bakrim Yoga Bebo’s Car Wash Bay Area Landscaping, LLC Batchelor’s Residential Services, LLC Allison Beard Mr. & Mrs. Joel Bodin Cakes by Judi Cara & Company Carrington Foods Cold Snap Frozen Yogurt Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse Doornaments Décor Leigh and Brent Faircloth Lynn W. Green Gulf Coast Containers Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Holiday, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Clifton C. Inge Kendal J. Jempson Knot Just Beads Jessica Little McKinney Petroleum Equipment MH3 Printing Dr. and Mrs. J. Andrew Morrow, Jr. Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe

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Polish! LLC Rebecca Satterwhite Rock Creek Golf Club Gale Slaton Soldiers Creek Golf Course Springhill Golf Course The Maids The Rum House The Ivy Cottage Ultra Tanz Zimlich’s Patio Zundel’s Jewelry

Other

Kathryn Arbour B&B Pet Stop, Inc. Lousie Batistte Scootie Barbour Bellasia Spa Jane Bledsoe Nancy Booth Lee Lee Brady Glynn Case Julie Castle Joy Cave Ann Coffee Jane Conkin Patricia D’Olive Flour Girls Bakery Winks Floyd-Jones Pat Frazer Arvid Gaston Ann Green Hadley Binion Designs, LLC Amy Hamilton Dorothy Havard Jolee Harvard Evelyn Hinton Sandy Holcombe Sallye Irvine Missy Jones Kati Nelson Photography Joan Marie Keebler Lagniappe Anne Layfield Los Arcos Mexican Resturant Lynn Meadows Discovery Center Dottie McGehee Laura Meisler Sallie Merchant Mobile Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Miriam Morrow Mr. & Mrs. Tony Brown Gillette Muller Tibbe Neal Mary Ella Northtrop Brenda Ogburn Paint Party Studios Penske Louise Rayford Marguerita Riggall Laura Jane Rogers Mickie Russell Suzanne Scott Kate Seawell Smilz ‘n Stylz Spot of Tea Mary Helen Strain Lisa Swift Lori Taylor The Delicious Dietitian The Museum of Mobile Kathy Thurber Gypsie Van Antwerp Via Emilia Lissa Watkins Debbie White Wiggles & Giggles Gayle Williams Jamie Wright Zundel’s Jewelry

upcoming events

at a glance Touchdown Jags!! Cheer for the University of South Alabama. For tickets call 461-1USA (1872) to speak with a representative Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

LODA Artwalk Exhibitions and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues on the second Friday 6- 9 p.m. Visit www.ncsmobile.org or call 2087443 for more information.

First Friday Artwalk is the first Friday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in downtown Fairhope. For additional information or a list of participating galleries, visit www. esartcenter.com or call 928-2228.

The Saenger Theater always impresses with musical guests, movies, and much more! For more information visit www. mobilesaenger.com or call 208-5600.

Christmas at Oakleigh On December 1 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and December 2 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Oakleigh Historic Complex.

Admission: $10 per person, discounts not valid.

October 13th ................... Kathryn Scheldt October 18th ................... Pilobolus Dance Theater October 26th ................... Bonnie Raitt November 3rd ............... Kathy Mattea December 9th ................ Golden Dragon Acrobats February 22nd .............. Drumline Line

The first annual Grand Festival of Books will be held October 7th to 9th in downtown Fairhope. Authors from around the country will be on hand to share their work and speak to audiences.

October 2012

Fairhope’s Fall Farmers Market every Thursday afternoon from September 27th through November 1st Open 3:00 pm until dark behind the Fairhope Public Library on Bancroft Street 8th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest October 4 – 7. For more information, visit www.

AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com or call 625-0814.

Grand Festival of Arts On October 5th and 6th meet exhibiting artists in downtown Fairhope. The Grand Festival, sponsored by the Eastern Shore Art Center, has become one of the premiere fine arts festivals with over 100 juried exhibitors from around the country.

BayFest On October 5–7 Bayfest will celebrate its 18th anniversary with an expected crowd of more than 200,000 guests who will enjoy the streets of Downtown Mobile and see over 125 live musical acts on nine stages during the weekend. BayFest has become known throughout the region for its vast array of renowned musical talent appealing to a wide variety of tastes and suitable for the entire family. The event also includes a family stage and extensive children’s activity area. For more information, including confirmed acts, visit www.BayFest.com Mullet Run! On Saturday, October 6th, Fairhope will host the annual Mullet Run to benefit the BayArt Project. For more information visit www.FairhopeMulletRun.com Market on the Square From October 6th to November 19th shop for locally grown produce, seafood, beef, honeys, breads, pastas, cheeses, plants, and handcrafted goods for kitchen and home at Cathedral Square every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon.

FALL IN TO FAIRHOPE October 6-9

Mobile Museum of Art has many new exhibi¬tions beginning in October and running until January: Why We Are Here: Mobile and the Spirit of a Southern City, The Haverty Collection of International Studio Glass: Redux - Celebrating 50 Years of the Studio Glass Movement, and Beauty and the Social Beast: Jon Eric Riis, Master of Tapestry For more information contact the museum at 208-5200.

Bellingrath Gardens and Home’s Fall Floral Showcase featuring James Farmer on October 10. The day will include a floral demonstration

by James Farmer, a book signing, lunch with Mr. Farmer and Dr. Bill Barrick, and a tour. Visit www.bellingrath.org/fall-floral-showcase.html for tickets or more information.

Bad Boys of Dance October 13 featured by Mobile Ballet at Mobile Civic Center Theater. For more information, visit www.mobileballet.org or call 342-2241 Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes on October 13 is the American Diabetes Associations 5k fundraising walk. For more information visit http://main.diabetes.org/mobileal or call 850-492-6100 or 888-342-2383. d

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Polo at the Point is on October 21 at Sunny Hill Polo Complex in Point Clear. Visit www.poloathepoint.com or call 928-1777 for more information.

Explore the opportunities.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012 Dinner & Information Packets: 5:30pm-6:30pm Open House & Curriculum Tours: 6:30pm-7:30pm

Registration information for 2012 - 2013 school year will be available (child care provided)

Pre K-3 through 8th grade

scan code on your smartphone for direct link to stmarymobile.org

Bravery & Beauty Mint Julep Party and Silent Auction On October 23 at 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., at Oakleigh Historic Complex, Admission: $40 per person - Historic Mobile Preservation Society will be holding our fall fundraising party and Silent Auction on the grounds of Oakleigh. Enjoy a mint julep station, cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, and a lively silent auction.

Proceeds benefit HMPS and the Oakleigh Historic Complex. For more information, visit www.historicmobile.org or call 432-616.

Yo Yo Ma On October 24 at Mobile Symphony. For more information, visit www.mobilesymphony.org or call the box office at 432-2010.

Think Pink Tea On October 25 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, the Institute will honor cancer survivors and patients, as well as raise breast cancer awareness.

Greater Gulf State Fair From October 26 to November 4 the whole family can enjoy the Greater Gulf State Fair. For more information, visit www.mobilefair.com.

Blue Pass, active from October 26 to November 6, is a shopping pass that provides shoppers with a 20% discount on purchases at over 100 participating merchants in our local area. See pages 38 and 39 for more information.

Taste of Mobile On October 27 let your taste buds discover the 34th annual Taste of Mobile Bay at the Arthur L. Law Mobile Convention Center sponsored by the Alabama Restaurant Mobile Chapter. For more information, visit info@gesgc.org or call Kristen at 380-715.

Tennis for Tatas On October 28, from 1 p.m.

-5 p.m., at the Mobile Tennis Center, Tennis for Tatas will be hosting its third annual charity tennis tournament to benefit breast cancer research at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute. Sponsorship and registration forms can be found online at www.usamci.com/specialevents

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LUXURIOUS LINENS

Beautiful Bedding at the Ivy Cottage

November 2012 11th Annual Angel Ride Music Fest and Bike Ride will be on November 1-3. For information, visit www.angel-ride.com or call 243-0365.

GreekFest 2012 – From November 1-3, experience three days of dancing, food, and heritage during Mobile’s Greek Festival at the Greek Annunciation Church located at 50 S. Ann Street. For further information, visit www.greekfestmobile.org.

Fourth Annual Celebrate Hope Gala will be held on November 15 at 6:00 pm at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. The event will feature local chefs serving a delicious sampling of one of their signature dishes accompanied by a wine and specialty beer selected specifically for each dish. Additionally, there will be live entertainment for your enjoyment. Proceeds benefit cancer research at the USA MCI. For Sponsorship information, please contact Kelly McCarron at kmccarron@usouthal.edu or 460-7032.

HOME ACCESSORIES•GIFTS BRIDAL REGISTRY

2401 Old Shell Road • Mobile, AL 36607 251-473-4438 www.theivycottageonline.com

2401 Old Shell Road Mobile, AL 251.473.4438 www.theivycottageonline.com

Beethoven & Blue Jeans on November 1718 at Mobile Symphony. For more information, visit www.mobilesymphony.org or call the box office at 432-2010.

Wells Fargo Senior Bowl Charity Run On your mark, get set, Go! The date of the annual Food World Senior Bowl Charity Run is soon to be announced. To register visit www.seniorbowl.com

Jags – Dribble it, pass it, the Jags want a basket!

Visit www.southalabama.edu for a complete basketball schedule and ticket information. d

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Who Will Paint Your Portrait?

Let us help you select from our roster of over 150 renowned portrait artists, offering a variety of styles and prices.

Bebe Barnard 251 751 7971 • bbarnard@portraitsinc.net

or Andrea Moore 251 423 3330 • mooreparks@bellsouth.net

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Christmas Jubilee WRAP IT UP! From November 14 to November 17 the Junior League of Mobile hosts their 28th Christmas Jubilee at the Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds.

See pages 32-37 for more information.

Lighting of the Trees Celebration On November 15 visit downtown Fairhope at 6 p.m. For more information call 929-1466.

29th Annual Mobile International Festival On November 17 at the Mobile Civic Center.

It’s fun for the entire family with food, music, dancing, and more from 70 nations. Visit www.mobileinternationalfestival.org for more information.

Lighting of the Trees Celebration On November 18 be a part of Mobile’s Lighting of the Trees in Bienville Square from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The City of Mobile welcomes the holiday season with pictures with Santa, live music and much more.

Cooking Traditions: It’s All About the Cheese On November 18 be a part of the Cheese Straw Challenge at Oakleigh Historic Complex from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Admission: $15 per person. Historic Mobile Preservation Society wants to see who “The Big Cheese” of cheese straw baking is. Rev up those cookie presses and join the fun. Admission includes a wine bar, light hors d’oeuvres and a tour of the Oakleigh mansion. Proceeds will benefit The Cook’s House Restoration Project. To enter the competition or for more information, call 432-6161. If you just want to come for the tasting, tickets will be available for sale at The Gift Shop at Oakleigh or via website at www.historicmobile.org.

Fairhope’s Christmas Open House will be held on November 18 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is sponsored by the Downtown Fairhope Business Association. For more information, call 929-1466.

Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh Preview Party On November 29 at Oakleigh Historic Complex from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Admission: $50 per couple or $30 per individual. Historic Mobile Preservation Society will open the doors of Oakleigh for a sneak peek and a festive holiday party including a Christmas Ornament Auction. Get into the holiday spirit while enjoying cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, holiday entertainment, and a

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tour of Oakleigh. Bid on beautiful handmade Christmas ornaments by local artists.

Proceeds benefit HMPS and the Oakleigh Historic Complex. For more information, visit www.historicmobile.org or call 432-6161.

Magical Christmas in Lights Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving and continuing until December 31, tour Bellingrath Gardens.

Your holiday season is never complete without a visit to Bellingrath Gardens for Magical Christmas in Lights. Visit www.bellingrath. org for more information.

December 2012 Christmas at Oakleigh On December 1 from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and December 2 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Oakleigh Historic Complex. Admission: $10 per person, discounts not valid. Join the Historic Mobile Preservation Society for this Mobile tradition. See how the Christmas season was celebrated in Mobile during the 1850s. Admission includes children’s activities, entertainment, traditional Southern refreshments and a tour of the Oakleigh Historic Complex. Proceeds benefit HMPS and the Oakleigh Historic Complex. For more information call 251-432-6161 or visit www.historicmobile.org.

Candlelight Christmas at Oakleigh On December 1 at Oakleigh Historic Complex from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Admission: $10 per person, discounts not valid. Join the Historic Mobile Preservation Society for this romantic evening tour of Oakleigh dressed for the holiday season. Admission includes entertainment, an Egg Nog Station for adults, traditional Southern hors d’oeuvres, and a tour of the Oakleigh mansion. Proceeds benefit HMPS and the Oakleigh Historic Complex. For more information, visit www.historicmobile.org or call 432-6161.

Home for the Holidays On December 1-2 at Mobile Symphony. Call the box office at 432-2010 or visit www.mobilesymphony.org for more information.

Fairhope Christmas Parade is December 7 in Downtown Fairhope.

The Nutcracker On December 8-9 presented by Mobile Ballet at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. For more information, visit www.mobileballet.org or call 342-2241. d

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A holiday tradtion unlike any other Holiday Bus Tour To Montgomery On December 10 join the Historic Mobile Preservation Society as they travel to Montgomery for a day of touring from 9:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Admission: $48 per person. Tickets will include transportation; refreshments; a visit to the new Alabama Museum at the Alabama Department of Archives and History, the First White House of the Confederacy, Hill House and the Candlelight Tour of the Governor’s Mansion; and shopping at The Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop. Reservations are non-refundable. Proceeds will benefit HMPS and The Friends of the Governor’s Mansion. For more information, email HMPS at hmps@bellsouth.net or call 432-6161.

Magical Family Entertainment Dining s Shopping s Free Parking

Friday after Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve Nightly 5 -9 PM, Closed Dec. 25

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January 2013 The 14th annual GoDaddy.com Bowl will be played on January 6 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. For further information visit www.godaddybowl.com The 12th annual BankTrust First Light Marathon will be on January 13. For more information, visit www.firstlightmarathon.com or call 438-2094.

Carnival of the Animals On January 19-20 at Mobile Symphony. Call the box office at 432-2010 or visit www.mobilesymphony.org for more information.

I-10 to Exit 15A s Theodore, Alabama 251.973.2217 / 800.247.8420 Advanced tickets are available at participating REGIONS BANKS, the URBAN EMPORIUM & online at www.bellingrath.org

Fairhope’s New Year’s Eve Family Celebration is December 31.

New Year’s Eve Celebration On December 31, Moonpie Over Mobile offers live entertainment, activities for the kids at local museums, and a countdown to 2013 like no other.

The Senior Bowl is scheduled for January 26 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The 2013 game will be nationally televised by NFL Network.

Kickoff is TBA. For tickets and information, visit www.seniorbowl.com or call 438-2276.

building a better community

Letters from the community

The Centre for Living Arts, America’s Junior Miss Foundation, a Distinguished Young Women participant, and Dumas Wesley children all expressed gratitude for JLM’s work in the recent months.

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sustainer spotlight more effective community volunteer and inspired her children and grandchildren to seek out opportunities for service.

3 Generations of Service…

&Counting

by Laura Jensen

T

hree generations of Margaret Sue Oswalt’s family have dedicated a combined 42 years of service (and counting) to their work in Junior League of Mobile, Inc. (JLM). Oswalt, daughter Susan Helmsing, and granddaughter Margaret Sue Browning have contributed countless hours to our community as JLM members.

One of many examples of the lasting impact the family has made and continues to make in JLM is Christmas Jubilee. It is hard for most to imagine a time without JLM’s most profitable fundraising effort; however, Christmas Jubilee was envisioned by the Board and

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approved by the General Membership during Helmsing’s tenure as President.

Helmsing’s experience in JLM began in 1970. When the Board of Directors decided in 1985 that JLM needed a new fundraiser, Helmsing and others visited the Jackson Junior League event, “Mistletoe Marketplace,” to decide if JLM could successfully produce a similar event.

Now, 27 years later, Helmsing notes that the continuation and success of Christmas Jubilee is, “Amazing!” She adds, “It is a real example of what a group of intelligent, committed ladies can accomplish.” Helmsing believes her time as JLM President equipped her to become a

As part of her family’s legacy of JLM membership and leadership, Browning has learned first-hand the importance of service to her community, whether through JLM or other pursuits through her church, Government Street Presbyterian. Browning’s 93-year-old grandmother, Oswalt, was an active member of JLM from 1940-1958 and continues to serve at 15 PLACE, part of the Loaves and Fishes Community Ministry, each month. Her mother’s influence was equally strong. When Helmsing served as president, Browning even told her kindergarten teacher that she wanted to be President of the Junior League when she grew up. All three women feel a sense of responsibility to identify the needs in our community and then work toward meeting them. JLM has been the primary vehicle for Oswalt, Helmsing, and Browning to work towards that goal.

Browning is the current Neighborhood Meetings Chair, but, since her provisional year in 2004, she has worked with Penelope House, led Provisional Member programs, and served as Nominating and Endowment Chairs. She believes strongly her JLM work has influenced other parts of her life. “My experiences in JLM,” Browning explains, “have carried over into my professional and personal life by equipping me with leadership and management skills I might not have developed otherwise.”

Browning, along with Oswalt and Helmsing, remain faithful to the idea that everyone should feel a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of their community, whether through work in JLM or individual efforts of volunteerism. The fourth generation of Oswalt’s line, Browning’s eight month old daughter, Margaret, will not be eligible for provisional membership until 2036. She will have big shoes to fill, but following the example of working together to improve our community set by her mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother will be an excellent place to start.

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