spring | summer 2020
every woman The Junior League of Charlotte is
PROMOTING WOMEN
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this issue
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SPRING/SUMMER 2020 15
22
4
Letter From The President
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Letter From The Editor
6
Meet The CRIER Staff
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A Letter To New Mothers
12 The JLC Journey 18
26
14
Provisional Spotlight
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Active Spotlight
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Transfer Spotlight
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Sustainer Spotlight
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Healthy Routines & Habits
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Five Days, One Dress: The Little Black Dress Initiative
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New Partnership with Sugar Creek Charter School
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Resume & Interview Tips From Laurie Allen
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Preserving Our History: The Follies
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Between The Pages: The Unqualified Hostess
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Community Partner Digi-Bridge
36
40 20 42
34 New JLC Year New Community Partnerships 36
Bridging A Lifelong Connection
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Your Ergonimic Home Office From Deidra, Physical Therapist
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Be Your Own Boss With Devin, Entrepreneur
42 DIY Summer Crafts
letter from the president During the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc., (JLC) Board Retreat in Spring 2019, a group of passionate JLC leaders gathered to reflect, strategize, prioritize, and plan for the work to be achieved in the coming year. As I looked around the room, I noticed we had women of color; women who were differently abled; women in full time professional careers and second careers; working moms, remarried moms, stay at home moms, and moms of fur-babies; empty-nesters; newlyweds; single ladies; as well as women with college degrees, graduate degrees, or continuing to pursue higher education. Every person in the room brought unique talents, experiences, and perspective. As the weekend continued and various thoughts were shared, I was confident that our diversity would be our strength as TOGETHER we united in leading the League. We now look back on a year of mission-driven work by the more than 1,600 women who have linked arms as #TEAM2020 members and the challenges brought forward by a pandemic, tragic events around the country, and uncertainty. We served children and families through our year-long partnerships, as well as in our quick impact Service Saturday projects. We served our members through our unique training and education offerings, as well as through our creation of a Membership Matters Fund to provide dues assistance to those impacted by COVID-19. We engaged by the hundreds at General Membership Meetings at the JLC Building, Sustainers’ homes, a high school auditorium, and on Zoom. We have created a pipeline of leaders for our own organization as well as for the community. From committee meetings to Board meetings, we listened, we learned, and we took action together. Our ability to navigate the hard work and tough conversations this year affirms what I already knew: our diversity is our strength. This edition of The CRIER is but a glimpse into the many ways our diversity is our strength. This edition highlights the lifelong community service of Sustainers, our newest members who are utilizing their entrepreneurial talents to launch their own businesses, and the women who have transferred to Charlotte from cities large and small bringing their experience with them. There is information championing our partners who are eager to multiply their impact through work with our trained volunteers, and information for women considering whether the JLC is the place for them. As I hope you can tell from these stories, we welcome every woman who is committed to our mission. Since 1926, there are tens of thousands of women who have impacted Charlotte through their Junior League service. While the JLC has looked differently throughout the years, our shared bond of membership and our passion to empower women and improve communities continue to make us relevant and remarkable. I invite you to learn about our membership – who we are and what we do – throughout the pages of this magazine, and I challenge you to engage in conversations with members to understand the value of our membership and the value of our diversity. #TEAM2020 relies on the fact that TOGETHER Everyone Achieves More. As we welcome new leadership and look ahead to celebrating our 95th anniversary, we remain united around supporting each other and our mission. And I am so proud of who “Together” includes when talking about the women of the JLC. With Gratitude,
Tricia Magee President 2019-2020 4
letter from the editor
Ever since planning commenced for The CRIER, my goal for this edition is that we answer the question that I, and most members, get asked often: What is the Junior League of Charlotte? It was during my brainstorming when Whitney Houston’s “I’m Every Woman” came on the radio, and that’s when it hit me: The JLC is every woman! Walk into any Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) community partner event, Training Tuesday, fundraiser, or committee meeting and you will find women of all backgrounds with varying expertise. Our membership is comprised of over 1,600 women who hold various titles: business owners, mothers, nurses, daughters, teachers, lawyers, and more. What brings this diverse group of incredible women together? The calling and desire to leverage our God-given strengths to serve and improve our community. It is this core value that has united the women of the JLC for almost 95 years. Since 1926, the Junior League of Charlotte has been a foundational partner in helping build the city of Charlotte. From Discovery Place and Levine Children’s Hospital Family Resource Center, to The Council for Children’s Rights and Charlotte Speech & Hearing (just to name a few), the women of the JLC have been driving forward change and advocacy for the community. As members are staples in the community, the JLC is dedicated to leadership development and growth to further enhance the breadth of impact and influence of our membership. Our members are not solely change agents for Charlotte. They’re mothers of three, recruiters, caretakers of elderly parents, entrepreneurs, physical therapists, or accountants. With this magazine, The CRIER reporters and I hope to showcase the true embodiment of the JLC to our members and all readers of this work; not only who we are but where we have been and where we are going. With Gratitude,
Morgan Squatriglia Editor 2019-2020
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meet the CRIER staff!
Morgan Squatriglia, a Charlotte native, graduated from East Carolina University in December 2014 and has since established a successful consulting career at NTT DATA Services. Morgan joined the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) in 2016, a life-long destination after serving as President of her high school Juniorettes and Vice President of North Carolina Juniorettes. Morgan is the President of her own non-profit organization, Morgan’s Art for Humanity, and serves on the board of nonprofit, Wright State of Mind. Outside of professional and volunteer activities, Morgan enjoys exercising, painting, learning, and spending time with friends and family.
Morgan Squatriglia Editor
Kelsey Barker, a native of Roswell, GA, graduated from the University of Virginia in 2012 and currently works as a Senior Channel Consultant of Annuity Marketing at Brighthouse Financial. Previously, she and her husband William lived in Washington, DC, Charleston, SC, and West Palm Beach, FL, before moving to Charlotte in 2019. Kelsey joined the Junior League in 2016 and has enjoyed the opportunity to experience different Leagues in all the cities where she has lived! In addition to her work on The CRIER, Kelsey and her husband founded Dogwood & Dominion, an apparel company that also supports historical preservation efforts in the state of Virginia. She also enjoys cooking, painting, and throwing a tennis ball around for her springer spaniel, Rowdy.
Kelsey Barker Assistant Editor
Candace Wright Williams is a wife of nearly 24 years to her husband, Rufus, and a mother of four. Candace is a healthcare administration leader. Candace is active in the community serving in many areas outside of JLC including as PTO president at Lake Norman Charter and as scholarship committee chair for the Greater Charlotte Healthcare Executives Group. She is excited about a recent internship at Sugar Creek Charter Academy she landed through the Junior League of Charlotte’s Get on Board program. She expects to begin a board term with Sugar Creek Charter in July.
Candace Williams Reporter
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meet the CRIER staff! Shellisa joined the Junior League of Charlotte in 2018. She enjoys serving the community and helping others. Professionally, Shellisa is the Vice President of Learning & Development at LPL Financial. She oversees the development of all training content for over 4,000 employees and 17,000 financial advisors. As an active member of her community, Shellisa currently serves on the McCrorey YMCA Board of Managers where she was recognized as a 2019 George Williams Award winner. Shellisa is a published author and enjoys writing editorial commentary in her free time. Shellisa is a loving wife, mother and friend.
Shellisa Multrie Reporter Tammy Capone Stanard is a marketing and business professional with 25 years experience across the telecommunications and automotive industries. Currently, she is an Account Executive with Good Brand Company working on integrated marketing programs as a contractor. Tammy is a graduate of Michigan State University where she got an Executive Masters of Business Administration and The University of New Haven where she got her Bachelor of Science degree. Tammy was born and raised in Connecticut and has enjoyed living in many states over a 20 year period. In her free time she enjoys reading, traveling and meeting new people. Tammy and her husband Patrick relocated to Charlotte 2 years ago to be closer to family. Through the Junior League Tammy is looking forward to building great friendships and giving back to the community.
Tammy Stanard Reporter Tramayne was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and has lived in Matthews, NC since 2017. In her spare time, she enjoys creating social media content and spending time with her family. Tramayne currently serves as the JLC’s Assistant Communications Council Manager.
Tramayne Osbourne Reporter / Assistant Communications Council Manager
Terri White Terri White is a native of Pittsburgh, PA and transferred to the JLC in 2019 after her career
Reporter
brought her to Charlotte. She is a product manager and regularly advocates for diversity of race, gender, and thought in technology. Ever committed to service, she volunteers with a number of community-focused groups in addition to the Junior League including the NAACP, her own Valentines for Vets program, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. In addition to The CRIER, she currently serves on the JLC Archives Committee and will be a part of the Meetings Committee for the 2020-21 League year. 7
JLC
AT A GLANCE
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Candace L. Thompson MBA, RealtorÂŽ, Licensed NC/SC
704-778-0779 Candace.Thompson@CBCarolinas.com www.CLTRealtyGroup.net CLTRealtyGroup
3440 Toringdon Way Ste 110 Charlotte, NC 28277
Thank you to the JLC Legacy Foundation The JLC Legacy Foundation is a critical part of the JLC’s ability to sustain financial giving to community and special program needs. Active members and sustainer trustees are appointed to sit on the Foundation Board and have a critical role in managing the health of the current endowment funds, as well ensuring the long-term strategy and growth of these dollars to support the JLC.
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A LETTER TO
NEW MOTHERS by Tramayne Osbourne Dear New and Expectant Moms, Less than one month before I was due to give birth to my first child, tragedy struck America. On December 14, 2012, 20-year-old Adam Lanza shot and killed 26 people at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT. The victims included six adult staff members and 20 children between six and seven years old. As the country mourned the senseless loss of so many young lives, the joy I felt about my impending motherhood – already hard to come by under the weight of antepartum depression – was overcome by fear. How would I raise a child in such a scary world? You may be experiencing the same fears that I did as you anticipate giving birth and navigating the early days of motherhood in the midst of an unprecedented global pandemic. The novel coronavirus has transformed life as we know it, leaving many of us feeling scared and helpless. While these unusual times have created challenges for everyone, I’m especially sympathetic to new and expectant mothers. I know all too well how a devastating event can shake your confidence at a time when you need it the most. As I held my baby boy for the first time, I felt my anxiety subside. Looking at his precious face, I was reminded of an important lesson that I learned through volunteering.
If it’s to be, it’s up to me. It’s up to us to create the world we want our children to live in. That may sound like a tall order for a new mother. But as members of the Junior League of Charlotte, that’s exactly what we’re trained to do. Just as individuals have the power to shape their own destinies, volunteers have the power to shape the world, starting in our own communities. As moms, we only want what’s best for our child(ren). As moms who volunteer, we make it happen. When the world gets scary, be the difference you want to see. For your own child and generations of children to come. Remember, if it’s to be, it’s up to you. Sincerely,
Tramayne Osbourne Tramayne Osbourne
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THE JLC JOURNEY by Candace Williams
What will I get out of my membership? Will I have enough time? What if there’s not enough flexibility for me? Isn’t it too late in my life for me to join?
These are common questions for current members of the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) as well as those who are considering joining. But these questions are often asked, too: Do I want an avenue to support my community? Do I have gifts and talents to offer? Do I want to grow as a leader and a volunteer? Do I want to spend time among like-minded women making a difference together? While the JLC is fully committed to serving the community, the organization acknowledges that doing so requires a commitment of time, talent, and treasures from each of the members who are all at different phases of life with additional priorities, outside of volunteering. JLC members will find opportunities for both personal and professional enrichment as they pour into the lives of others and be poured into by the League. The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
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Voluntarism As a volunteer organization, JLC members are committed to supporting the Charlotte community. “Placement” is the term used to describe a member’s area of service for the year, whether it is volunteering with one of the JLC’s community partners, or serving one of the JLC’s internal committees that enable the organization and members to execute the mission. The JLC offers a variety of placements, and the new online Placement Matching Tool helps members identify placements that match their goals, interests, and capacity.
Training & Leadership As a training organization, the JLC is committed to providing value to members through personal and professional growth. For example, the Training & Development Committee hosts monthly ‘Training Tuesdays’, which provide seminars on everything from career scaffolding, to healthy eating, to self defense, and everything in between. This programming recently received an award from the The Association of Junior Leagues International for its accomplishments in membership engagement. In addition to training, the JLC is committed to expanding member opportunities for growth outside of the JLC. The ‘Get on Board’ committee prepares League members to serve on nonprofit boards and has been successful in connecting many members to board positions. The Leadership Development Institute is a workshop that connects JLC members and other women in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community to help them hone in on their leadership skills. The Public Policy Institute is a non-partisan program designed to provide JLC members and the community with training to enhance their understanding of advocacy and relevant public policy issues.
Each JLC journey is different, and being a Provisional, Active, and eventually a Sustainer are part of the lifelong membership path.
Year 1: Provisional
Year 2+: Active
During the first year with the League, members are considered a “Provisional.” Provisional members complete a comprehensive training series that allows them to develop friendships, serve the local community and learn about the League’s structure, purpose, history, and mission. The Provisional experience includes small group meetings, educational courses, community service projects supporting our mission, and League-wide functions such as general membership meetings, fundraisers and socials.
Following the Provisional year, members are considered an “Active.” Active members have an array of placements from which to choose. On an annual basis, Actives commit 40 hours to their placement. Some placements are weekday- or weekend-only; some require activity during specific months/seasons; others may be consistent year-round; some may require day-time activity; and others may require strictly evening, etc. Women join the League at all ages. In recognition of the stages of life all League members are in, additional flexibility is given through different types of active memberships to allow members to pause their volunteer service as they adjust to life changes.
Sustainers
After a number of years of service, members can become a “Sustainer’’. Sustainers do not have volunteer commitments, and these women provide guidance and support to all JLC members. To become a Sustainer, a member must complete 7 years of Active service, or remain active until the end of the fiscal year in which she reaches age 40 having completed 3 years of Active Service. Regardless of status, members support the JLC fundraisers and earn Membership Credits through General Membership Meetings, social activities, small groups, and more!
Whether women are 23, 103, or anywhere in between, the JLC has a place for everyone. The JLC is grateful for the members who serve today, those who have served in the past, and those who will do so in the future. Interested in joining the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) or know a woman who might want to join? Visit jlcharlotte.org to learn more about eligibility and how to apply!
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provisional SPOTLIGHT
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.” – Maya Angelou
LINDSEY BOWEN Quality Assurance Manager Niagara Bottling
What inspired you to become a member of the Junior League of Charlotte? I wanted to get involved in the Charlotte community after moving here a year ago and the JLC seemed like the perfect way to do that! What is your current JLC placement? I just accepted the Vice Chair position for Done in a Day - Here’s to jumping in head first! So far, what is your favorite memory with the JLC? The community bus tour. Being new to Charlotte, it was an awesome way to see the city and everything the JLC is involved in. What is your favorite thing to do in Charlotte? Going to Charlotte Knights game is our go to during the summer, we also like to take our dogs to The Dog Bar in NoDa. What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about joining the JLC? Just do it! It seems overwhelming at first, but you meet so many amazing women, do some awesome things in the community, and have a lot of fun. If you could ask Sustainers any question about being in the JLC, what would it be? Given all of the change that the JLC has experienced over the years, what are you most proud of? Neighborhood: Steele Creek Hometown: Biloxi: Wellington, FL
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active
SPOTLIGHT A special thank you to Rhonda as she has been serving on the front lines of the COIVD-19 pandemic. Thank you for your sacrifice and expertise, Rhonda!
RHONDA BLASINGAME Pediatric Service Line Nurse Educator at Levine Children’s Hospital and Jeff Gordon Children’s Center
So far, what is your favorite memory with the JLC? Wow this is a tough question because I have so many! But if I have to pick just one it would probably be volunteering in the elementary schools with Give Kids a Smile. We used to go in every Friday and provide dental education. We would have so much fun playing games, reading books, and playing with the giant teeth and toothbrushes we brought with us. The kids loved it and our committee had such a great time together! What is your favorite quote? I’m not really a big quote person honestly but way back when I was in Nursing School I remembered one of my instructors telling our class “Panic plays no part in the training of a nurse.” I really learned exactly what she meant by that my first year as a nurse working in the Pediatric ICU. Nurses are trained to think quickly and act accurately while not panicking. I’ve practiced that way throughout my entire career especially during many really tough situations and I bring this way of thinking to my personal life as well. I always share this with any nurse I’ve trained throughout the years and hope that it has made as great of an impact on them as it did for me. What is your favorite thing to do in Charlotte? Boating on Lake Norman! What is the best advice you’ve received from a JLC member? Have fun and be open to serving in a leadership role! How has the JLC impacted your life? I could also name so many things here but I would have to say one of the greatest impacts for me has been being surrounded by strong women who have given me so much support and words of encouragement throughout my journey in the JLC. Neighborhood: Davidson Hometown: Biloxi: Missouri 15
transfer
SPOTLIGHT
…the best book you will ever read is Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. I read it every year!
CAROLINE HARRELL Associate Product Manager, Lowe’s
Which League did you transfer from? Junior League of Lee County, AL. I was in graduate school at Auburn University (War Eagle!). I did my provisional year with the Junior League of Atlanta. What is your current JLC placement? Center for Community Transitions (CCT) So far, what is your favorite memory with the JLC? Volunteering with Center for Community Transitions has been such a joy! I’ve really enjoyed working alongside the women in the placement and being able to interact with the children CCT serves. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? Italy! I love the food, culture and architecture. I’m planning on doing an Italian tour next year- I’d love recommendations! If you could master a skill that you don’t currently possess, what would it be? Speak a second language! During the Covid-19 quarantine, I’m trying to be diligent about my Duolingo lessons in French. What is your favorite quote? I don’t really have a favorite quote, but I do have a favorite example of servant leadership. I once heard a former Chick-fil-A associate say that when Dan Cathy (Chick-fil-A CEO) visits a restaurant, he always picks up the trash in the parking lot before going inside. He never mentions it to any of the associates in the restaurant- he does it because it is one thing he can do, that will allow the employees to spend more time with the customer. I often think of the story, as I strive to be a better servant leader at my job, in my community, in the Junior League and among my family and friends. Neighborhood: North Charlotte Hometown: Biloxi: Macon, GA 16
sustainer
SPOTLIGHT
“A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11
DR. GWENDOLYN B. PEART Educational Consultant/Former Library Administrator
How long have you been a member of the Junior League of Charlotte? I have been a member of the Junior League of Charlotte since 2013. What is your favorite JLC memory? My favorite JLC memory is when I attended a Get on Board training and as a result, started an educational nonprofit. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I would travel to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I always wanted to see the famed Christ the Redeemer statue atop Mount Corcovado. What books/podcasts are you enjoying right now? As a retired librarian, I always have a book or two in my purse and I enjoy reading multiple books at the same time. I am currently reading Goliath Must Fall by Louie Giglio and Soar: Build Your Vision from the Ground Up by T. D. Jakes What inspires you to stay involved with the JLC? I am inspired by the work I enjoy with the Sustainers to remain active and involved with the JLC. What advice would you give to Provisional and Active members? I would encourage all Provisional and Active members to continue to embrace the mission and purpose of the Junior League of Charlotte and to make time to be of service to something that makes such a vital impact in the community. Neighborhood: North Charlotte Hometown: Biloxi: High Point, North Carolina
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JLC is every woman
HEALTHY ROUTINES & HABITS
FROM CAITLIN, NOOM NUTRITIONIST by Kelsey Barker During the COVID-19 lockdown, many people struggled with food, whether that meant having to learn to cook more than just spaghetti or turning to comfort eating your favorite snacks. Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) member and nutritionist Caitlin Moczuma says to remember moderation is key. “Go ahead and bake a batch of muffins, but maybe eat just one each day and aim for balance with the rest of your choices,” she says. “Give yourself grace during this time. Not every meal or day needs to be perfect - sometimes you just need to let it go!” Moczuma says try to keep enough staples on hand to make a few meals. This comes in handy after a vacation, and especially now when we are all trying to limit trips to the grocery store. Moczuma adds, “You have a lot of options with just some simple staples.” ~ Beans. I tend to use canned beans because they’re quick and easy, but dried beans are great to have as well. I generally have two cans of black beans, two cans of chickpeas, two cans of cannellini beans, and a can or two of kidney and/or refried beans. ~ Grains. Quinoa, rice, and oats are simple options that can help a meal come together. Frozen brown rice is also great to have, whether you buy it frozen or cook it at home and freeze portions yourself. A grain + frozen veggies + a fried egg = simple, quick dinner. ~ Frozen vegetables. I love having frozen veggies to add to meals when I’m short on time or don’t have fresh produce. Frozen spinach or kale are great additions to soups, sauces, and my 8 month old loves them in scrambled eggs! Chopped peppers, corn, and mixed veggies are also great options. 18
~ Carrots and celery. These are good for snacking and helpful for making a lot of soups. ~ Canned pumpkin. This one may be a little more random, but it’s helpful to have! You can add canned pumpkin to oatmeal, chili, or make a pumpkin bread if you’re having a craving! ~ Eggs. Great for cooking, baking, hard boiling for snacks, etc. During the stay at home orders, JLC member Alexandra Whitesell shared her “Quarantine Cooking” Google doc with anyone who asked! She created the list with different recipes at the beginning of the lockdown, and it now has over 50 recipes, as well as cooking tips and feedback from others who have tried the posted recipes. Whitesell also shared how she streamlined her entire meal planning process during quarantine. To limit her trips to the grocery store, she consults her cookbooks and the Google doc. She also always tries to repurpose leftovers. “I often try to ‘menu gang,’ where I will have recipes that call for many of the same items, but are completely different. For example, I might make chorizo chickpeas one night and then curry chickpeas a few days later. Both call for chickpeas. Both are very different.” Using her process, she could go up to three weeks on just one trip to the grocery store. We asked Junior League of Charlotte members what quick, healthy recipes had helped them get through quarantine, and the answers ranged from cherished family traditions, to perfect Pinterest finds, to crowdsourced tips from friends.
Black Bean Soup From Caitlin Moczuma
Ingredients: • 2 15oz cans black beans (preferably low sodium or no salt added), undrained • 1/2 cup salsa • 1 TBsp chili powder • 1 16oz can low sodium vegetable broth (or a spoonful of veg base and 2c water) • Optional toppings: • Grated cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, sour cream or Greek yogurt, avocado Directions: Add beans and their liquid to a medium saucepan and partially mash the beans with a potato masher. Place over high heat. Add salsa, chili powder and broth. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Add optional toppings and serve over brown rice if desired. Notes: I always try to keep frozen veggies on hand as an easy way to give a nutritional boost to simple meals like this. You can add any additional veggies you have, but one of my favorites is frozen spinach. Chopped frozen peppers and/or frozen corn also work nicely. Fresh veggies work beautifully as well when available!
Chia Seed Pudding From Brittany Tomlinson
Ingredients: • About 1/4 chia seeds • 1 can of Coconut Cream • 1/4 cup of honey Directions: Stir chia seeds and coconut cream. Then add in the honey. Let the pudding sit for a few hours (even overnight) in the refrigerator. If you keep it in the refrigerator overnight I usually add a little milk to make it creamy. I like to serve in a bowl with berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and another topping of honey! (FYI: Chia seeds are a healthy fat that keeps you feeling full for longer!) 19
FIVE DAYS, ONE DRESS
THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS INITIATIVE HIGHLIGHTS AND EMPOWERS
THE JLC’S MISSION by Kelsey Barker Thousands of women, men, and children across Charlotte are impacted by poverty every day. For one week, the women of the Junior League of Charlotte stepped into their shoes and into some little black dresses - to raise money and spread awareness of the effects of poverty on every facet of life. During the week of March 9-13, League members donned the same black dress each day, along with a pin that informed their friends, coworkers, and social networks to “Ask Me About My Dress.” This one dress symbolized the challenges faced by those in our community with limited financial resources, and the pin served as an invitation to begin a discussion about the needs in our community. Over 100 members set up their own donation pages to collect donations from the community. All donations raised during the Little Black Dress Initiative go back into the community, supporting the League’s mission. This year, the week of LDBI came around just as Charlottearea stores, restaurants, and offices began to close due to concerns around the spread of COVID-19. While this situation dominated the news and social media, it also highlighted how perilously close many women and families are to being affected by the issues that the Junior League hopes to address, such as
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food security, school readiness, and access to toiletry items. Many JLC members noticed the parallel, and incorporated the national conversation about COVID-19 into their social media posts. “The challenges we are facing now (determining work schedules, how to balance children’s hanging education process, how much toilet paper to stock up on) are not new for those families living below the poverty line of $24,000,” wrote Eugenia Brown, who was recognized by the LDBI committee for having some of the most creative social media posts. While the uncertainty of COVID-19 affected donations throughout the week, a group of past JLC Presidents stepped up to the task of finishing the week strong! Several past leaders joined current President Tricia Magee to match up to $5,500 in donations to the Little Black Dress Initiative. By the end of the week, over $44,000 was raised from 706 donors to support the JLC’s mission, which is more crucial than ever. The Junior League of Charlotte is so proud to have raised this money during such a difficult time. We are incredibly thankful to the donors who supported this year’s Little Black Dress Initiative and joined the League in making a significant impact in the Charlotte community!
What inspired you to lead the Little Black Dress Committee? Olivia Hubert, LBDI Vice Chair:
“I love the cause behind LBDI - not only is it a great fundraiser, but it’s a fantastic way to raise awareness of the Junior League of Charlotte’s impact on the community.”
Eugenia Brown, JLC Membership Development Council (MDC) Advisor and a member of the Board of Directors, shared a mix of personal stories, community statistics, and outfit advice as part of her Facebook posts for LBDI, which won her the JLC’s Most Creative Social Media posts award!
Aisha Thomas, LBDI Chair:
“LDBI is the perfect time to spread the message about the significant role we play in the community, and how what we do ties into a direct need in Charlotte.”
Community statistics: •
1 in 5 children in Mecklenburg County are currently living in poverty
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Over 15% of people in the Charlotte area are unable to meet their basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing
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Only 40% of third graders in Charlotte Mecklenburg schools are reading at or above grade level.
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JLC KICKS OFF A NEW PARTNERSHIP with SUGAR CREEK CHARTER SCHOOL by Shellisa Multrie This year, the Junior League of Charlotte began a new partnership with Sugar Creek Charter School (SCCS). Led by Chair Lisa Newth and Vice-Chair Shamira Youkhaneh, this placement has offered a unique opportunity to support a community school with deep Charlotte roots. Chair Lisa Newth shared, “Actually getting to work with the kids is so rewarding. It’s a very supportive environment and they (SCCS) make it happen for their students.” Sugar Creek Charter is a year-round, public charter school for over 1,700 students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade, all of whom are considered minorities. This north Charlotte school and its 250 staff members just celebrated their 20th Anniversary, and there is much to celebrate. SCCS’s motto is “Whatever it takes” and that motto has been adopted and upheld by JLC members since the JCL began its involvement. Richard Russell, elementary school principal at Sugar Creek Charter School, is a fan of the services JLC members provide the students. “The impact and work of the Junior League has been invaluable to our students,” raved Russell. Last fall, the JLC hosted the first Family Night Out event about mental health called, “Creating a Winning Hand” -- an event the school counselor had wanted to host for years. The goal was to get the families to connect, especially since many Sugar Creek parents work multiple jobs and do not have time to participate in school events or even the PTA. Principal Russell noted how the committee worked hard to ensure the night was special for both parents and students. The Creating a Winning Hand event focused on supporting students and families with different Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Families were educated on the downstream impacts of trauma, food insecurities, 22
and other common issues to help them find ways to thrive. The program provided an opportunity to discuss how not to let ACEs become generational issues. The students participated in games on communication, selfexpression, and made crafts to give them a way to talk and express themselves at home. Committee member, Aaliyah Jenkins, had this to share about her experience with the Family Night Out event:
Working this event made me realize what “ the true meaning of volunteering was. I realized that volunteerism was not only about my selfsatisfaction but was about being able to bring a positive impact to your community and the members within it. The majority of the children enrolled at SCCS belong to low-income stricken families. Being able to provide families with resources needed to break generational curses felt so gratifying, because now there is hope for our youth. We will see them succeed, we will see them grow to be the best version of themselves and we will see them help and fight to make our community better.
”
One of the JLC Provisional small groups also supported Sugar Creek Charter as their Capstone Project. Camese Noel shared, “When we visited for a tour, we learned the school library was converting from a mobile unit. My small group needed a Capstone project so this was a good opportunity to help.” Her group saw the need and worked diligently to sort the books by grade level and category to assist in the upcoming move. JLC is proud to partner with Sugar Creek Charter School and look forward to its continued partnership in the future.
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As Junior League Members, we appreciate YOU,
the Actives, Provisionals and Sustainers, and all that the JLC does in our community. We hope you will contact one (or both) of us for your real estate needs. We have been involved in the JLC & our community for 30+ years, and we’d be proud to partner with you in finding the abode of your dreams or we can help market and sell your home.
Previously served as:
-Past President -Sustainer Past Presidents -Follies Chairperson
Jane Grosse
NC REALTOR® 704. 607. 7075 jane@helenadamsrealty.com jane.helenadamsrealty.com
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Lisa Tomlinson NC REALTOR® 704. 641. 1798
ltomlinson@helenadamsrealty.com lisatomlinson.helenadamsrealty.com
JLC is every woman
RESUME AND INTERVIEW TIPS
FROM LAURIE ALLEN by Shellisa Multrie Recently, I sat down with Laurie Allen, Director of Human Resources at Carrier Enterprise, to get her take and valuable tips for job seekers! Laurie has over 20 years of experience in Human Resources including talent acquisition, organizational development, compensation, employee relationship, and training. She has seen it all!
Make Your Resume Count First things first, have someone else look at your resume. Nothing is more annoying than a resume with grammatical errors or vague language. You should really refine your resume for the job you are seeking. Keep in mind the company size, scope of the role, etc. Don’t be shy about listing your volunteer work as well. Show your commitment by including offices or ways you have led in the organization. Second, make sure you have a LinkedIn profile. Laurie added, “All of my hiring managers go right to LinkedIn to look at candidate profiles...make sure LinkedIn and your resume match.” Add a LinkedIn link on your resume to make it easy to find you. Third and most importantly, do not embellish your resume. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about the results you are touting on your resume. If you cannot speak to it, do not put it on there.
Work your network For more seasoned job seekers who find themselves back in the job market, it is a good idea to network with a diverse group of ages, experience and perspective. It is important to keep up with past coworkers, professional associations, and other connections you have. Most importantly, have your elevator speech ready. Be able to talk about yourself in a results focused way. Don’t be shy about sharing a key accomplishment. Your resume may get you noticed but you have to be able to sell yourself on the initial conversation.
Practice interviewing
It is a great idea to have someone practice interviewing with you. Many people prepare for face-to-face interviews but they do not take as much time to prepare for the phone screen. Phone interviews can be short or they can last an hour so the more you prepare for this part, the better. You can also Google behavioral interviewing questions to practice answering. Many companies incorporate these types of questions so advance preparation is always helpful.
Do your homework and ask good questions
Get very familiar with the job description. Research the company, its performance and competitors. Have good, detailed questions prepared. It is a good idea to use what you have heard from the interviewer. A few great examples might be: • How do you define success? • How will my performance be measured? • What would you like to see someone in this role achieve in the next three months?
Don’t be afraid of interview panels
At some point during the interview process, you may encounter a panel. Approach the panel knowing that in almost every case, they are pulling for you! They want you to be successful. If you are able to get names of who will be on the panel, look them up on LinkedIn so you can recognize them when you meet them in person. Be calm and imagine there is one person in the room. Think through your answers and speak with confidence.
Send thank you notes! Don’t think about it, just send them! Laurie Allen has been a member of the Junior League of Charlotte since 2016. She was attracted to the JLC commitment to improve lives in the community. She also values the diversity, personal commitment and drive of the membership. She has served on Center for Community Transitions and most recently the Social committee. Laurie believes that the work we do in the League can really change the trajectory of someone’s life. 25
preserving our history
THE FOLLIES
by Tammy Stanard
Throughout Junior League history, and especially here in Charlotte, many remember ‘The Follies’ with a loving fondness. Many Actives have heard stories about The Follies, but never participated in one since the last performance was during the 1997-1998 League year. So, what exactly was ‘The Follies’? And why doesn’t the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) continue with The Follies today? Those who may have been unfamiliar with The Follies may have defined it as a variety show for the public that the JLC members and often their spouses starred in. Actives have come to learn that when referring to ‘The Follies’ there are two aspects to consider. Sustainers say the first aspect is the 5-year League cycle including research and development, project identification, the programs and initiatives that resulted from the League’s work, and fundraising. The second aspect is the actual performance itself. 26
The Follies performance, a celebratory event in the form of a variety show including Actives, Sustainers, and their spouses, was the culmination of the 5-year cycle and took place in year five. During that 5th year, otherwise known as a ‘Follies year’ it was all hands-on deck throughout the JLC to execute what was often a multi-night performance and included spectators and participants that were highranking business and political leaders, such as the Mayor of Charlotte. So how did the 5-year cycle work? In years 1 and 2, the JLC would mobilize committees, such as the Research and Development Committee and the Community Council, to engage Charlotte community leaders and non-profits. The JLC would bring together roundtables of these leaders for the purpose of identifying challenges in the community and determining which needs in the community were greatest. The JLC would also determine how it could play
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a role in helping fill these gaps. In year 3, background work would be done and a project or several projects to benefit the community, much like our current community partnerships, would be decided on. The League would then vote on which projects to approve and advance. Years 4 and 5 were focused on fundraising for the approved projects. In year 5, ‘The Follies Year’ the performance would take place, usually at the end of February. During these years, in parallel with the fundraising efforts, the League was also 100% invested in supporting their current projects and the funds raised were allocated to current and new projects. The Follies was no small, meager show. As with any big production, it needed a producer, a script, music, and more to draw a crowd. A well-known producer was usually flown in from New York or Philadelphia. The producer, along with great costumes, music, lighting and a large venue all contributed to steep production costs. As production costs for The Follies increased and venues became more expensive to rent, Charlotte grew as an entertainment and cultural center and offered more activities for residents. The Follies is mentioned as early as the 1927-28 League year in Charlotte with the show “High Lights” raising $1,784.69. 28
Back in the 1940’s, the Follies was very prevalent in the JLC and even a highlight of the Greater Charlotte community calendar. Local Charlotte newspapers printed hundreds of Follies patrons (donors) throughout its pages. During a time when the City of Charlotte was comprised of just over 100,000 residents compared with the over 800,000 residents today, the small town of Charlotte seemed to celebrate the fundraising activity and the production. “The Follies was such a huge fundraiser,” according to Past President Lisa Tomlinson, adding “corporations such as The Charlotte Observer, Duke Power (now Duke Energy), the large banks and even the United Way” contributed to the JLC fundraising, because these corporations “trusted the JLC to give to the right organizations.” This helped provide the JLC a “seat at the table” within the business community. Jane Grosse, The Follies Committee Chair of the final Follies performance in the 1997-1998 League year, said The Follies was “comradery building for everyone in the League.” Grosse said the committee’s approach to fundraising in 1996-1998 was unique. For the first time known to the League, the committee invited community members, including men, to become part of the first of its kind, Honorary Campaign
Cabinet for the sole purpose of actively participating in fundraising. The League needed the help, as their goal was to raise a whopping $1,000,000. One of those Honorary Cabinet members was Bill Grigg, Head of Duke Power. He, along with 27 other influential people from the community donated time and resources. Along with the JLC, they were successful in raising between 1.2 and 1.3 million in 1998. As Charlotte was changing, so was a woman’s role in society and family. Many more Active members of the League worked
full-time compared to the 1980’s and even the early 1990’s. While members still wanted to contribute to the community it was difficult to justify a hectic rehearsal schedule for the performance, while managing family and job-related commitments. Because of this, the final Follies performance was held in 1998. However, the Follies 71 year legacy is an important part of JLC history that continues to be told through the stories of the Follies performances through JLC Sustainers and seeing the old photos and videos to reminisce of times gone by. 29
between the pages
Girl…YOU HAVE TO
READ THIS BOOK! by Shellisa Multrie We’ve all been doing more reading and indoor activities during the COVID-19 quarantine time, and there is one book in particular that The CRIER Reporter, Shellisa Multrie, just had to share!
The Unqualified Hostess by Whoopi Goldberg Check out a little sneak peek of how I used some of the tips to pull together my own dining room. I have literally something from every place I have lived in my dining room. It doesn’t match…but Whoopi said I don’t have to!
If the idea of hosting a luncheon, party or even just a girls night makes you anxious, have no fear; you don’t have to be qualified to be an awesome hostess! The Unqualified Hostess by Whoopi Goldberg gives her take on how to make a party your own without a lot of fuss. In the book, she shares how she decorates and hosts parties in her own way. I am a natural hostess but I am always looking for great ways to take my party planning and décor to the next level. The beautiful, coffee table worthy book outlines topics from silverware to tea parties for your gal pals. Whoopi also covers holiday hosting and decorating tips for New Year’s, Thanksgiving and many more. What’s fascinating is there are no recipes in the entire book! None. Just ideas on how to pull whatever you are trying to do together. One great tip is to use knife rests to keep your table clean (see photo). Who knew they were even a thing, right? Whoopi is a collector of many things that are unique, fun, simple and ornate. She also incorporates simple, everyday crafts to pull her themes together. Every section has great notes on details, funny anecdotes and informative tips. You cannot miss with this book! It is available online and in stores like Main Street Books in Davidson, Park Road Books in Montford, or you can even order using Amazon Smile to benefit the Junior League of Charlotte.
Did you read something awesome? We want to know about it. Reach out to us, we might just feature your review in our next edition of The CRIER!
“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are…” – Mason Cooley 30
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ADVERTISING OPTIONS FULL PAGE WITH A SPECIAL PLACEMENT 8 1/2” X 11” SINGLE EDITION $500 | FULL YEAR $750 FULL PAGE 8 1/2” X 11” SINGLE EDITION $375 | FULL YEAR $560 1/2 PAGE (HORIZONTAL) 7.75” x 4.875” or (VERTICAL) 3.75” x 10” SINGLE EDITION $175 | FULL YEAR $260 1/4 PAGE 3.75” x 4.875” SINGLE EDITION $100 | FULL YEAR $150 1/8 PAGE 3.75” x 2.375” SINGLE EDITION $50 | FULL YEAR $75
CONTACT THE CRIER ADVERTISING & SALES ASHEL SOMMERMANN | ASHEL.SOMMERMANN@GMAIL.COM
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community partner
DIGI-BRIDGE by Tammy Stanard Digi-Bridge is a program that teaches Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) initiatives to Mecklenburg County students between Kindergarten and eighth grade. Since 2014, Digi-Bridge equips shareholders with the means to foster optimal use of technology in the learning environment, ensuring all 21st century learners have opportunities to succeed in the digital age. The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) works with Digi-Bridge on their #STEAMSaturdays to teach a series of 90-minute explorative courses covering different STEAM topics. Some of the most popular themes JLC members have taught are: • •
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Body - learning how kidneys filter blood, why some people have glasses Space - constellations, distance between objects in the solar system, how NASA completed the MARS landing Motion - ramps, parachutes, catapults Theater - introduced this year, the children had the chance to design costumes and a set
This is the second year the JLC has led #STEAMSaturdays at Idlewild Elementary in East Charlotte. The JLC provides grant money to fund the curriculum and members step into the facilitator role to teach the courses on Saturday mornings from October to May. The JLC operates two classes at Idlewild and host, on average, 25-30 students each Saturday. Children are accepted into the program for five-week sessions, and some of the children take part in successive sessions. Prior teaching experience is not necessary, as the JLC facilitators are provided everything they need to lead each session. Nikki Grayson, Digi-Bridge Chair, enjoys volunteering with this placement because she likes the tangible impact she’s able to see in direct interaction with the students each weekend and usually walks out of STEAM Saturdays learning something herself. “Digi-Bridge is one of the few placements where you can ‘try before you buy,’” she says,
meaning JLC members can volunteer with the committee without actually having to be part of it. Rosemary Gause, Digi-Bridge Vice Chair and upcoming Chair for the 20202021 League year, adds, “The kids like the ability to learn interactively and not be confined to their desks.” The popularity of this placement, the impact on the students, and the unique programming are some of the reasons DigiBridge received the JLC’s Community Partner of the Year award at the May General Membership Meeting. Volunteer opportunities coincide with the CMS school calendar. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic the DigiBridge sessions were put on hold in the hope that DigiBridge will begin again in October 2020. 33
NEW JLC YEAR NEW COMMUNITY PLACEMENTS by Tammy Stanard The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) is pleased to announce new Community Placements for 2020-2021. JLC members are looking forward to getting involved and working with these organizations to ensure all children in the Charlotte area meet school readiness requirements. Children who are ready for school, emotionally and physically, will learn more and be prepared for success in school and eventually beyond the classroom.
Renaissance West Community Initiative The Renaissance West Community Initiative (RWCI) has a holistic approach to community redevelopment. RWCI focuses on multiple critical factors including housing, education and development programs, health and wellness services, and commercial investment. RWCI’s model of mixed-income housing offers the environment and amenities to help residents thrive by elevating the standard of living for the lowest-income residents, while providing affordable housing opportunities for residents in higher income brackets. RWCI contributes to a great future by providing high quality educational options. JLC members will serve through a multitude of projects that focus on the child, family and neighbor, assist with the mobile food pantry, and plan special events throughout the year.
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PARENTCHILD+ ParentChild+ uses education to break the cycle of poverty for low-income families. The organization engages early in life and helps toddlers, their parents, and their family child care providers access a path to possibility. For families living in underserved communities, ParentChild+ is a first step on the ladder to success, a “personal booster club” for each family it serves. JLC members will work with families on literacy programs, financial literacy programs, teaching computer skills, and programs that work to increase the bonds between parents and children by modeling playing together and talking together.
Classroom Central Classroom Central equips students in need to effectively learn by collecting and distributing free school supplies to their teachers. Classroom Central serves teachers and students in nearly 200 schools across six school districts in the Charlotte Region. Supplies are distributed through Classroom Central’s Free Store, Mobile Free Store and several other community-supported programs such as ClassVROOM Central and Classroom Up.
Thompson Child and Family Focus Founded in 1886 as an orphanage, Thompson Child and Family Focus has grown into a non-profit operating across the Carolinas. Each location provides comprehensive education, treatment, and care for children (birth to 18 years) in need. At their most intensive level, Thompson heals children who have been severely abused and provides them with the support and services they need until they are secure in a loving and stable home.
JLC members will assist with special events throughout the year, as well as supporting the Learning Library, and volunteering at the Free and Mobile stores.
Thompson’s goal is to create a stable foundation on which children and families can learn to thrive for a lifetime. JLC members will help through serving as reading buddies and by planning quarterly events--such as Friendsgiving and FatherDaughter dances.
Bright Blessings Bright Blessings is a volunteer-led organization that impacted 17,000 homeless and impoverished children in 2019 through its core programs, Bless-A-Birthday, Bless-ABaby, Gift of Literacy and Gift of Care. These programs provide individualized birthday celebrations, and essential gifts of comfort and need to babies and families who otherwise lack the most basic of care necessities. JLC members will assist in packing materials for different programs and delivering the packages. JLC volunteers also have the opportunity to assist with birthday parties.
The JLC will be supporting these incredible organizations, along with 8 others who are returning partners, by providing funding and volunteer support from our members to improve the Charlotte community. Are you interested in supporting JLC community partners? Check them out and get involved! You can also follow the JLC on social media or visit our website (jlcharlotte.org) for opportunities to participate in our initiatives. 35
sustainer highlights
BRIDGING A
LIFELONG CONNECTION by Candace Williams
Stop by the Junior League building on any given Tuesday and you will find a group of Sustainers enjoying games of Bridge. The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) has nearly 1,000 Sustaining members, who serve in advisory roles after years of active service. Some of the JLC’s longest serving Sustainers have been meeting for more than four years to catch up and connect over a game of Bridge. Sometimes Bridge attracts enough ladies for one table of four and at other times there are enough for four tables. For this group of Sustainers, this weekly gathering is a way to stay connected and reminisce about old times. Joana Wardell is originally from Charlotte and joined the JLC in the early 1980s when she moved back to the area after graduate school. She wanted to find out what was going on in the community. Joana’s favorite placement was The CRIER, where she created an animated character called Letty to represent the women of the League for one of the issues. Barbara Bernath was interested in volunteer work, so when a friend introduced her to the JLC, she jumped right in and served in leadership
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roles including being on the Board of Directors. Barbara was provided key volunteer opportunities, including being the JLC representative to Leadership Charlotte’s fourth class. Introduced to the JLC by a friend when she was just 18 years old, Susan Mason’s mother encouraged her to accept the invitation. She remained an active member from age 24 to 41, serving in leadership roles and various placements. She has been a Sustainer for more than 30 years. Susan says the placements are what kept her active for so long. She added that the JLC provides great training on how to be a leader. According to this group of Sustainers, the JLC is a wise way to spend one’s time. The reasons these fabulous women joined are largely the same reasons new members join today. They were invited by friends, desired a sense of community, wished to volunteer, and wanted to grow personally and professionally. They found value in the friendships they made, the comradery they experienced, and are proud to have taken advantage of the opportunity to make a difference.
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JLC is every woman
YOUR ERGONOMIC HOME OFFICE FROM DEIDRA, PHYSICAL THERAPIST by Kelsey Barker
Q: Tell me about you and your physical therapy (PT) training.
Q: What was the Junior League transfer process like for you?
A: When I graduated from PT school at UNC Chapel Hill, I started my career as a generalist in outpatient clinics in my hometown of Fayetteville. As it’s a military town, I served a lot of active duty service members and retired veterans, as well as the general population including student athletes and office workers. I found that I really had a passion for sports physical therapy, so I decided to attend a specialty program in Greenville, SC, where I had the opportunity to work alongside a number of practices with all kinds of athletes. After the program, my fiancé and I decided to move to Charlotte to be near family while we plan our wedding - and, of course, for its array of sports teams.
A: It can be tough to feel settled in a new place for a while, but even before my Junior League of Charlotte semester began, the Transfer process was very smooth. Everyone I worked with was super communicative and clear about my upcoming responsibilities. I can already tell the JLC is doing great things in the community, and I’m looking forward to being fully involved!
Q: How has the Junior League influenced your professional development as a leader in physical therapy and the larger community? A: I can give the Junior League a lot of credit in my position as a young leader. Almost immediately after my Provisional year in Fayetteville, I became a committee chair because someone saw something in me that I wouldn’t have recognized in myself. It was a great opportunity to step into a leadership role early, and it gave me the confidence to contribute to my professional community as well.
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Being surrounded by other leaders in the League and my profession has opened my eyes to the importance of mentorship. In fact, my Transfer advisor, Lindsey Benefield, led the JLC Entrepreneurs social group and provided me with some excellent resources to get me started as I establish my physical therapy practice. Q: What’s something a lot of people don’t know about physical therapy? A: The great thing about physical therapy is that it can help a person’s pain or discomfort without the use of prescription medication. It’s also such a diverse field, and you can work in so many settings: rehab, hospitals, even corporate settings.
THE ERGONOMIC WORK STATION Ear, shoulder, elbow & hip in one line Monitor centered directly in front of eyes. Monitor positioned 20-30” from eyes Source documents positioned in line with monitor screen for easy viewing Monitor 10-20° tilt
15°
Keyboard positioned one inch above elbows
90-120°
Head, neck & shoulders are positioned forward & upright (not bent or turned) Shoulders & arms are roughly perpendicular to the floor; elbows are held close to sides Chair offers lower back support
Space under desk is clear to allow legs room to move & stretch
Seat offers adequate padding, width & depth for personal comfort
Thighs are roughly parallel to the floor; lower legs are roughly perpendicular
2 inch clearance between back of knees & chair
FEET rest flat on the floor or are supported by a stable footrest
With so many more people working from home, it’s important to incorporate good ergonomics into your home office. Here are three tips to prevent neck and back pain at your workstation! 1. Assess Your Workstation A quick ergonomic assessment can help you make effective adjustments that will reduce the strain on your muscles and joints. Key Guidelines for Creating An Ergonomic Workstation: • Ensure your lower back is supported. If your chair doesn’t have a curve that fits in the small of your back you can roll up a small towel and use it to fill the curve of your low back. • Sit back against the chair. • Wrists in a neutral/straight position. • Feet flat or on a footrest. • Hips and elbows positioned close to 90-degree angles. • Clearance between back of knees and chair. • Monitor should be an arm’s reach away. • The screen should be at eye level. 2. Move Throughout the Work Day Sustained postures put additional stress on your muscles, joints, and tendons, which can lead to acute and chronic painful conditions. At minimum, you should get up and walk at least one time each hour. Set a reminder on your fitness
tracker, use an alarm on your phone, or set up alerts on your computer. A good exercise to perform throughout the day while seated at your workstation is a slouch-overcorrect movement: Begin sitting in a slumped/slouched position. Slowly straighten your back, imagining a string pulling your head upward, making yourself as tall as possible. Relax, then repeat 10-15 times. 3. Self-Massage with a Lacrosse Ball You can buy a lacrosse ball at Dick’s Sporting Goods for about $3 and it’s great to help relieve tension in tight muscles. I recommend using self-massage for tight muscles rather than stretching the neck. The self-massage stimulates blood flow in the area and allows you to better pinpoint specific areas of tightness in a muscle. 1. Begin in a standing upright position in front of a wall and place the ball between your upper shoulder muscle and the wall. 2. Slowly roll your upper back side to side, then up and down on the ball until you feel a stretch or muscle release. Hold briefly on any tight spots, then continue rolling.
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JLC is every woman
BE YOUR OWN BOSS WITH DEVIN, ENTREPRENEUR by Tammy Stanard
Have you ever dreamed of becoming your own boss and calling the shots? Most of us, whether at a large or small company, dream of becoming our own boss at some point in our career. Let’s face it, after years of 8:00am to 5:00pm we’ve all fantasized about going off on our own. Some of us are in a job performing work that we just don’t enjoy and we’d simply rather be doing something else. For these and many more reasons, we think about setting off on our own and becoming an entrepreneur. Junior League of Charlotte member Devin Black started her entrepreneurial venture, BalanceByDevin. com on a part-time basis four years ago, and recently left her full-time corporate position to become a fulltime entrepreneur. Black understands the importance of treating your
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body well after watching family members struggle with diabetes and cancer. Her personal experience fueled her passion and she wanted to “bring that to other people” through her business. Black offers one on one coaching on nutrition and fitness, helping her clients find their balance. So what holds us back and keeps us in the 8-5 rut we’ve fallen further and further into? Fear of Failure: The fear of failure is one reason that keeps people from starting their own business. No one wants to put themselves, their finances and their dreams out in public only to go up in flames. Black stressed, “progress over perfection.” Fear of Poverty: This fear stems from not being able to pay your bills, and losing what you have earned and
are accustomed to earning. Black says the toughest part of her transition was losing security and stability by giving up her “everyday job and paycheck.” Having a safety net and making sure you are comfortable with risk are key to moving forward as a business owner. Black supplements her income by working in her industry part-time, which also allows her to continue learning from other businesses. Fear of the Unknown: Losing control without the ability to manage potential outcomes scares us. When stepping out into your own business, be truthful about how your success will be defined. Setting SMART goals will help you deal with the unknowns, so prepare and understand what will make you successful. Black suggests connecting with other small business owners in the same industry and “get a lot of advice.” She also suggests getting involved in entrepreneur groups to
meet and network with other business owners. Determining what will really make you happy can push you forward or it may help you to understand that the stability that comes from a position inside a company is really best for you. Sometimes you won’t know unless you give it a try. In Black’s situation, her four years of preparation helped her answer many questions so many of us have before taking the leap. Dipping your toe in the water may be just what it takes to help you determine if you should jump in. The JLC supports women who are interested in taking the next step in their journey to becoming an entrepreneur. JLC members who are interested should watch for upcoming events with the JLC Entrepreneurship Group.
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DIY
SUMMER CRAFTS by Candace Williams Whether you call the South home by birth or by choice, chances are you have developed an unexplained appreciation for the Mason jar. The famous Ball Mason jar in particular. Perhaps it is the way history, form, function and elegance all merge into one single vessel. From its creation in the mid 1800’s designed to safely preserve food, the Mason jar has become the inspiration for countless creative uses today. In this article, read about a few summer craft ideas centered on the timeless Mason jar. Mason jars come in various sizes and can easily be found online or in retail stores. While Ball Mason jars are the more popular brand, other brands are available and will work just as well.
FRUIT INSPIRED COCKTAIL GLASSES First on the DIY list is fruit inspired cocktail glasses. These whimsical glasses add a little sunshine to your summer cocktail. Decide which fruit you will use to inspire your glasses and purchase the appropriate acrylic paints, varnish and paint brushes. •
Step one: Apply two coats of the prominent color or colors of your chosen fruit and let them dry. For example, if your design is inspired by pineapples, you might want to paint your entire jar yellow.
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Step two: Add designs to your jar and let them dry. In sticking with the pineapple theme, you may consider adding a green band around the top of the glass to mimic the leaves on top of the pineapple and using brown paint to add the spikes seen on the skin of the pineapple.
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Step three: Seal with varnish and let them dry.
Make these super adorable watermelon mason jar drinking glasses with mason jars, green twine, and black paint! Simply wrap the bottoms of the jars with green twine, adhering the twine to the back of the jars with hot glue. Then paint or draw black seeds onto the jars and fill the glasses with a pink drink!
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MASON JAR LUMINARIES Next up, Mason jar luminaries. To create these beauties all you need is clear silicone caulk and glass gems, which are found in your local craft or dollar store. The gems are available in a variety of colors including clear, blue and green. •
Step one: Apply clear silicone caulk on the flat surface of the glass gems one at a time and place them on your Mason jar. You may place the gems side by side all over the jar or in a random pattern if you prefer
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Step two: Allow the gems to thoroughly dry for a day or two
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Step three: Place a tea light inside - battery operated tea lights are perfectly acceptable - and just like that, your summer luminary is complete and sure to add style and beauty to your outside living space.
SUMMER VASES Our final craft idea, easy summer vases. For this you will need burlap, a strip of fabric, a spool of raffia, and an adhesive such as the clear silicone caulk we used to make the luminaries. Your fabric might be in a checkered pattern, floral pattern, solid color such as black, or whatever your heart desires. •
Step one: Cut the burlap ribbon and fabric to fit the circumference of the jar in the width you would like it to cover the jar. You will want to cut the fabric to a smaller width.
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Step two: Add your adhesive to the back of the burlap and affix it to the jar and do the same with the fabric affixing it to the burlap.
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Step three: Finish it off by tying a raffia bow around your jar. Fill your vase with fresh summer flowers to create a lovely summer centerpiece.
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You don’t have to be particularly crafty to successfully pull off any of these pretty and simple projects so we hope you will take the leap. Happy crafting! 43
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