Parishscope Summer 2018

PARISHSCOPE A PUBLICATION OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, INC. | Summer 2018

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Every Anniversary Is

A Diamond Anniversary!

Be Original.

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www.sidpotts.com | 318.797.2929 8535 Business Park Dr. | Shreveport, LA jlsb.or g | Su mmer 2 018 Par i s h s cope71105 | Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:30pm & Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm

From the Editor

Table of Contents

Kristen King Holmes The heat has arrived and that to me means lemonade, vacations, and reflecting on another successful League year. From Revel and Winter Wonderland to the King Cake Classic, Designer Bag Bingo, and everything in between, we have dedicated thousands of service hours to our community and our League mission. Get to know next year’s leadership team in this issue and let’s get geared up to stand behind them and continue moving our mission forward in our community. I’ve enjoyed keeping you up to date and I know Melissa Airhart is going to do a wonderful job next year! Enjoy your summer!

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Letter from the President

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Letter from the Incoming President

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1933 Society

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Member Calendar

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Letter from the Sustainer Advisor

10 New Sustainers 12 Sustainer of the Year 14 Provisional Update 16 Kids in the Kitchen 17 Meeting with a Mission 18 2018-2019 Board 21 2018-2019 Management Team 22 Thank You: Clay Shoot 24 Thank You: Designer Bag Bingo 26 2017-2018 President’s Award Recipients 27 2017-2018 Volunteer of the Year

JuniorLeagueSB

28 Community Assistance Program (CAP) Grants

@JuniorLeagueSB Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier facebook.com/JLSB.org

28 Celebrations 29 2017-2018 Scholarship Recipients 30 JLSB Headquarters History 32 Memorable Moments 34 Cookbook Recipe

youtube.com/user/JuniorLeagueSB Cover photo by DeAnn Arnold Photography

2017-2018 Parishscope Staff Editor Kristen King Holmes Assistant Editor Melissa Airhart Business Manager Lisa Cameron 2017-2018 Board of Directors President Katie Baker President Elect Heather Price Executive Vice President Hilary Aldama Wooley

Secretary LeVette Fuller

2017-2018 Management Team

Treasurer Leah Smith

Executive Vice President Hilary Aldama Wooley

Nominating Chairman Alex Person

Community VP Saige Wilhite Solomon

PR&D Chairman Katherine Douthitt Members at Large Mollie Chelette Margaret McDonald

Communications VP Katherine Stringer-Davis Membership VP Lecie Israel

Sustainer at Large Becky Berry

Ways and Means VP Heather Courtney

Sustainer Advisor Ginger Lukacs

Assistant Treasurer Mary Monteleone

Designed by Grace Vazquez Hardesty grace! graphic design + marketing Printed by LaPressCo Printing 409 Watts Road Shreveport, LA 71106 The Junior League of ShreveportBossier welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities.

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President

Letter From the

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier was incorporated in 1933—85 years ago. Celebration of our 85th anniversary during the 2017-2018 League year was the perfect time to reflect on our past, embrace our present, and plan for our future.

Our League has experienced a lot of change over the last few years, and we’ve had our share of changes this year as well. However, it was important to me this year to give our members a sense of stability, enduringness, and also to remind us all of why we joined the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier and, more importantly, why we remain members of our League.

Vicki Clark said it best, “You can’t make grown women do anything they don’t want to do.” That is so true.

And it’s the reason why the Junior League is so incredible.

We are a group of volunteers that CHOOSE to give our time and talent to this organization, because of, not only the massive impact our League has on the community, but because of the impact it has on each one of us. This year, the members of our League CHOSE to lead and support six very successful fundraisers, including the inaugural Designer Bag Bingo which raised over $35,000.00 in its very first year! This year, the members of our League CHOSE to impact our community through our diverse community projects such as Kids in the Kitchen, MAGIC, and Revel Artist for a Day, to name a few. This year, the members of our League CHOSE to help our Board of Directors create a new Strategic Plan through their participation in a SWOT analysis to ensure the continued success of our mission through new initiatives. It is truly amazing what we “grown women” can do when we CHOOSE to give of

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Katie Baker

our time and talent to support the mission of the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier.

Vicki also used a quote in her presentation from Steve Maraboli, “The empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beautiful beyond description.” The members of our League are both powerful and beautiful and our League journey only strengthens our sense of empowerment. This journey has definitely empowered me!

We really have had a tremendous year. I am constantly inspired by ALL OF YOU, the women in our League!

So many of our members are juggling full-time jobs and families, and yet they find the time and energy to chair fundraisers, lead community projects, and serve on councils and committees in our League! With such a dedicated membership, I am confident in our future!

And speaking of the future, I am so excited to see what wonderful and exciting things our new President, Mrs. Heather Porter Price, has in store for our League.

Heather’s enthusiasm for our League and its mission is infectious, and I know that our League is in caring hands with Heather as our new President.

Thank you again for making this journey so incredible and fun! I will forever cherish my time as an Active Member in our League, and especially this past year serving our membership as President. Remember, service is joy!

Katie Baker 2017-2018 President

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President

Letter From the Incoming

It is truly an honor to serve as President during the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier’s 86th year. I’m excited for our upcoming work and inspiring mission to continue moving forward!

For over eight decades, our members—each a leader in her own right—have been making an impact within the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier and our community in remarkable ways. Through the years, community need-based issues have defined the work and strategic direction of the League.

As such, we have evolved as an organization as the area around us has changed. This is why we are proud to be tackling the monumental issues of women’s and children’s health literacy and education and food insecurity through the addition of a new project—the Red Apron Pantry—and the continuation of MAGIC (Mentoring Ambitious Girls to Inspire Change), Safe Sitter, Revel Artist for a Day, Bingo at University Health, Kids in the Kitchen programs, and the timeless Super Safety Saturday event.

With some guidance and direction from renowned speaker and consultant, Vicki Clark, the 2017-2018 Board of Directors worked diligently to revamp our Strategic Plan, which consists of four strategies built on the following pillars: provide an engaging membership experience, engage and improve the community, safeguard sustainability, and communicate Mission and Vision. The Strategic Plan will be the guiding force behind the work of the Board of Directors, Management Team, each member, and the supporting community we serve.

Our focus this year, as it is every year, is on our mission and our members. We plan to put extra emphasis on promoting the JLSB identity through several communication strategies, including community partnerships with organizations such as the Revel, Food Bank of Northwest LA, the We Grow Together! Coalition, and the Home Builders Association of NWLA’s Parade of Homes. We imagine a brand where the Junior League red aprons are equivalent to transformative work in Shreveport and Bossier City. And for each member who devotes her volunteer time with the JLSB, we envision that she feels the personal development in an organization that values her time and talents while building meaningful relationships.

By training leaders in a myriad of ways, promoting voluntarism, and developing the potential of women, we guarantee that our impact will be felt in measurable ways for decades to come. Our Leadership is also committed to evaluate the organization’s fund development initiatives and ensure that we are prudently allocating our resources to safeguard Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier’s sustainability.

The theme for the 2018 AJLI Annual Conference was “UNSTOPPABLE, Empowering Women to Act as Agents of Social Change.” There is no doubt that the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is as UNSTOPPABLE today as it was 86 years ago. I hope that our work this year will be a true reflec-

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Heather Price

tion of the strong, civic-minded women that founded the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier so many years ago.

If you are reading this then you are a Sustainer, Active, Provisional, Sponsor, or Community partner, and for that, I thank you! Your support has been instrumental in the JLSB’s ability to make an impact in the area. I hope that you will consider continuing to support the Junior League through our 1933 Society, a corporate partnership, or attending one of our exciting events—the Pumpkin Patch at Provenance, King Cake Classic Run, and Designer Bag Bingo. We all make a difference! I look forward to everything that we will accomplish together in 2018-19!

Sincerely,

Heather Porter Price Heather Porter Price 2018-2019 President

1933 Societ y

Thank you to the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier 1933 Society Members.

We appreciate your support of our League and our mission!

Katie Baker Mrs. William H. Broyles II Melissa Flores

Julia Blewer Lynda Griffey Betty Henderson

Susan P. Adams Melissa Airhart Debbie Angelo Rhonda Anglin Nancy Beauvais Becky Berry Lynn W. Chance Mollie Chelette Teresa & Kurt Dean

League LeadeRS Kim Foret Maureen C. Gamble

Ann Hutchinson Green Leslie Griffin Scott

League Advocates Melinda A. Hernandez Peggy M. Lyons

Maggie McElroy Peggy and Carolyn Murphy

Mrs. Sam W. Smith Jr. (Bitsy) Edie Williams

Heather Price Jodi Penn Rives Milly H. Sale

League Partners Helen E. DeBeaux Shannon Elder Christine Fortson Jennifer Frierson Jennifer Hart Jennifer Hemmings Kristen Holmes Michele Horton

Jennifer LaPierre Meredith McMullen Kendra Meiki Stacey Melerine Patricia N. Miramon Angie Phares Michele Q=Petersen Shelly Ragle-Wood

Janie Richardson Susan Shelby Elizabeth Siskron Mrs. Dala W. Smith Leah Smith Marie Vanderlick Celeste S. Wedgeworth Katie Williams

Import ant Dates to REmember

Provisional Retreat Aug. 4 BHP Billiton YMCA

General Membership Meeting Sept. 11 Centenary College

Super Safety Saturday Sept. 29 Sheriff’s Safety Town

For more information about upcoming events, login to jlsb.org and access the Member Calendar.

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Sust ainer Advisor Letter From the

Ginger Lukacs

It was such a great year for our Sustainers! We got together for our Fall Social at the Pumpkin Patch and El Cabo Verde, hosted and participated in November Group Meetings, gathered for the Annual Sustainer Luncheon at East Ridge Country Club, had a blast at Designer Bag Bingo, and reunited at the Past Presidents Lunch! THANK YOU once more to the Sustainer Advisory Panel. They planned, participated, and supported every part of this year. One more special thank you to our dependable Office Manager, Amy King, who always has my back! And, it’s a wrap…at least for now. Additional opportunities lie ahead for Sustainers who might enjoy a little more!

With more than 500 Sustainers, we have a lot to offer in support of our Actives. JLSB welcomes and encourages our involvement and contributions! Stay connected and consider participating in some way. You’ll be glad you did it. We grow from our experiences, and especially, from our camaraderie.

1) H ost a meeting at your home. The Actives LOVED the comfortable, inviting atmosphere of Group Meetings in Sustainers’ homes this year. Sustainer hosts will be needed in November to do it again. There may even be an opportunity to host a meeting or function tied to one of our Community Projects.

2) Welcome Baskets for our Transfers. The Membership Council plans to extend some Shreveport-Bossier hospitality to new members who transfer in from other

Leagues with welcome baskets full of goodies, including a JLSB cookbook! Maybe you’d like to make a monetary donation toward the baskets, help put them together, or deliver the baskets and personally welcome our new transferred members? Just think what this would mean to a newcomer!

3) Serve as a Sustainer Advisor. Is there a committee you remember being passionate about? Let us know if you are available to offer support and encouragement in an area where you’ve had League or professional experience.

4) Participate on the Sustainer Panel. Panel Meetings are held two to three times a year. The panel plans and attends Sustainer events, as well as selects the Sustainer of the Year.

If you are interested in any of the above opportunities to stay connected, contact the 2018-19 Membership Vice President, Maggie Pressly, mpressly@bradleyfirm.com, (318) 453-8702.

My year as Sustainer Advisor to the Board and Chairman of the Sustainer Advisory Panel has ended in the same way every one of my Junior League placements has in my 22 years of involvement. I served, I learned, I grew, I made friends. Thank you, Katie Baker, for allowing me to be an active part of the Junior League this year. I am better for it, and appreciate the opportunity!

Thank you to the 2017-2018 SUSTAINER ADVISORY PANEL!

Sustainer Liaison, Lindsey McElhatten Debbie Angelo Becky Berry Holly Garrett Melinda Hernandez Ginny Homza Terri Madison Ginny Murphy Betsy Roberts j l sb.o rg | S ummer 2018 Pari shscope

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New Sust ainers

2018-2019

Katie Baker, 2009

Favorite Placement: I have loved my time as an Active member in the JLSB and truly enjoyed all of my placements.

My favorite placement was definitely serving as President of the JLSB. This year has been so amazing—I’ve learned so much from our talented membership and gained many new friends, not to mention I’ve become an expert on pumpkins and charitable gaming laws!

I’ve enjoyed leading and supporting such a strong and empowered group of women.

Favorite League Memory: Oh my gosh…there are so many memories to choose from that I can’t pick just one!

I really enjoyed hosting Vicki Clark this past October. She is so inspirational and I loved spending time with her learning how to better engage our membership and strategically plan for the future of our League.

Ingrid Janell James, 2009

Favorite Placement: Nominating Committee/Advisor Favorite League Memory: Being introduced to the League with a group of equally excited women as we learned all the expectations of service, while bonding, at the Provisional Orientation.

Jennifer LaPierre, 2012

Favorite Placement: I LOVED changing the layout and design of the Parishscope in my first active year. But the fun days of the Revel can’t be beat!

Favorite League Memory: Being a part of the tree planting project for the 80th anniversary of the League was truly amazing. What a wonderful gift for our community that will be cherished for decades!

Bridgett Bushnell, 2011

Favorite Placement: That’s a tough one because I have truly enjoyed and loved every placement! It was a lot of fun being the Revel Artist for a Day Chairman and having the opportunity to plan artists and crafts for kids attending the Revel. Revel is always a great time!

Favorite League Memory: Provisional Retreat at Camp Forbing!

Jamie Davis, 2014

Favorite Placement: MAGIC Favorite League Memory: One of my favorite memories was attending an etiquette training course that was taught

by Sustainer (then Active) Erica Thomas. It was informative for the girls and the members as well. I also enjoyed assisting with the first Clay Shoot event, where I learned more about the fun and competitive sport.

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Diane Libro, 2008; Non-resident active since 2015

Favorite Placement: Community VP - The League does so many amazing things for the community, and it was an honor to be a small part of all the projects. Also, I learned so much about leadership and running an organization from the other members of the board.

Favorite League Memory: Visiting the Between the Lines project, which clearly made an impact on the families it touched. The men were so grateful to have a chance to speak to their children and just tell them they were loved. That project was the League at its best—finding an overlooked need, pushing members to do something new, and trying to fill the gap.

New Sust ainers

2018-2019 Julie McEachern, 2013

Favorite Placement: Between the Lines Favorite League Memory: My favorite League memory is the celebratory crawfish boil at Melanie Peacock’s home to close out my market placement as Merchant Recruiter. It was such a fun, stress-free party to close out a stressful fundraiser.

Shannon Warren, 2012

Favorite Placement: Designer Bag Bingo Favorite League Memory: My favorite memory was being a Red River Revel Artist for a Day Volunteer. There was a child that made some art, and she gave her artwork to me as a gift.

Jennifer McMenamin, 2007

Favorite Placement: Sustainer Liaison or Health Literacy Initiative Favorite League Memory: There’s no one specific favorite memory…I’m just thankful for the friendships I’ve found through the League, that I might not otherwise have made, and the memories I now make with those people who have become such an important part of my life.

Kendra Feazel Meiki, 2011

Favorite Placement: EVP Favorite League Memory: As the first EVP for the JLSB, I had the honor of heading the Management Team and overseeing the whole process. It was great to see how we could streamline so many processes for the League and help the Board work on long term goals.

Erin Leigh Waddell, 2007

Favorite Placement: All things Market. I loved everything about Market.

I loved the set up and preparations with some pretty cool chicks, the cute aprons, the unique vendors, the Girls Night Out, the Patron Party, and of course, the SHOPPING! Favorite League Memory: My favorite memory of the League is probably the North Louisiana Food Bank Saturday morning placements when we all thought it was WAY TOO EARLY to be stuffing boxes…and there were WAY TOO MANY RULES…but we entertained ourselves so thoroughly, that I always left with my face a little sore from laughing.

Tricia White, 2009

Favorite Placement: My favorite league placement has always been working Artist for a Day at the Revel.

I love working the Revel! The festival is such a fun place to be because it provides all the elements to have a great time - great energy, live music, a variety of food, and people of all ages.

Favorite League Memory: My favorite league memory has to be working with children in whatever placement I served. When I played Bingo with the kids at University Health and Shriners, it was rewarding to see a smile on a child’s face. Even while working the Revel Artist for a Day or the Health and Literacy Initiative, you could see the joy and happiness on a child’s face.

I joined the Junior League because the organization provided me with an opportunity to give back to my community through volunteering and working with children, and I will be forever thankful for those memories.

Hilary Aldama Wooley, 2012

Favorite Placement: Head Volunteer for Done in a Day Favorite League Memory: The opportunity to travel with President Katie Baker and President Elect Heather Price to national conference!

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Congratulations

To our Sustainer of the year Vickie Meadows

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The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is thrilled to honor Mrs. Vickie Meadows as our 2017-2018 Sustainer of the Year. This award honors sustaining members who continue to positively personify the Junior League even after they retire from active membership.

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier Sustainer of the Year Award celebrates a member who has given her personal time and talents to make a positive impact on the community around her, in the tradition of Mary Harriman. This award provides a contemporary link to our founder’s sense of social responsibility as well as her ability to encourage others to share their talents through effective volunteer service.

During Vickie’s time in the League, she served in many pivotal positions: Ways & Means Chairman, Membership Chairman, Spring Market Chairman, Treasurer, and she also served on the Sustainer Advisory Panel, just to name a few. Most notably, she was the 2003-2004 Junior League President. As with any great leader, Vickie instilled new ideas during her time in the Junior League. One of her many great ideas came when she was the Cookbook Chairman. She created and implemented a cookbook swap with sister Leagues, giving us the ability to market our cookbook to other geographic areas as well as offer other cookbooks to our members to meet our Ways and Means obligations.

When asked about Vickie, Ellen Alley said, “The first thing that comes to mind about Vickie is ‘service.’ Service to our community and saying ‘yes’ to giving of her time. I cannot think of a time she was asked to do something that she did not say ‘yes’ to. She would work in the trenches, if needed. She didn’t have a problem getting her hands dirty

and her philosophy is that she doesn’t believe in asking anyone to do something she wouldn’t do herself.”

The proud mother of two sons, Vickie currently has a productive career working for Southern Administrative Services as the Business Coordinator for 36 senior care facilities across Louisiana and Arkansas. In addition to her busy career, she held several leadership positions at South Highlands Elementary, Caddo Middle Magnet, and Loyola College Prep. Lastly, she also held the position as the Caddo District PTA Recording Secretary.

Her board involvement has included the Red River Revel, Cotillion Club, and the Glen Retirement System.

Her involvement at Church is no less selfless. Vickie volunteered her time at First Baptist, where she was a Preschool & Elementary Sunday School Teacher for four years. In addition, she served on the Church Council at First Methodist. She currently sits on the board for the Caddo Council on Aging.

It comes as no surprise that Vickie’s friends feel the same about her. According to Kim Foret, “Vickie is an outstanding example for other women in our community.

She leads by example and always does what she commits to do. She has spent countless hours helping our schools provide services to all children. She has mentored and helped many women learn how to organize fundraisers, use excel spreadsheets, and run efficient meetings to accomplish organization goals. Anyone who has worked with Vickie would tell you that she made any job easy and fun!”

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is proud to give Vickie this award, and hopes to continue to inspire and cultivate the talent of the current members of the Junior League.

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Update

Provisional

My journey as the 2017-2018 Admissions/Provisional Chairman began at the 95th Annual Conference of the Association of Junior Leagues International in Minneapolis-St. Paul. One of the keynote speakers was Cheryl Strayed, the New York Times best-selling author of Wild.

Attendees received a copy of Strayed’s new book, Brave Enough, which is a collection of her quotes and thoughts.

While I enjoyed the book in its entirety, one quote struck a chord as I was planning this year’s Provisional Program: “Real change happens on the level of the gesture. It’s one person doing one thing differently than he or she has done it before.” Though challenging, change can create awesome and positive outcomes. My goal for the changes implemented to the Provisional Program was that participants could learn and grow, not only as League members but as volunteers.

The Provisional Committee made changes to its program in order to refocus on the League’s mission of developing its members’ potential through volunteer training. Instead of being placed into an existing community project, the Provisional class worked together to create and implement a Provisional Project. Additionally, the Provisional meetings focused on educating new members about the League and how it operates. Provisionals were also required to observe current community placements in order to better evaluate whether a particular placement would be a good fit for their particular interests and schedules.

Amongst themselves, the class participated in a mini-slate to select leaders for the project. These leaders formed a “Mini-Executive Board,” comprised of Executive Vice President Lauren Vizza, Membership Vice President Kimberly Davis, Logistical Planning Vice President Tracy Jones, and Communications Vice President Elizabeth Kennedy. These women led the class through the implementation and successful conclusion of the project, with the guidance of the Provisional Committee, Executive Committee, and the Board.

The project was designed to mimic the League’s process when creating a new community project. This year’s project partnered with the Shreve Memorial Library, wherein the class looked to fulfill a need. Through

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Anna Brown Priestley

discussions and planning, the class learned that, while the library received many donations, it lacked large quantities of the most recent, popular titles for teenagers. The library curated a list of 14 books that it anticipated would be in high demand this summer. A goal was to encourage more teens to read recreationally, which has been shown to have a positive effect on student achievement.

The class organized a book drive to collect the newest, award-winning books with important themes that speak to current issues facing today’s teenagers. By increasing access to these books, the class desired to increase teen participation in the library’s Summer Reading Program. Another goal of the book drive was to prevent the “summer slide,” which is the tendency for lower-income students to lose some of the achievement gains made during the previous academic year.

Four methods were conceived to facilitate community donations. First, the Provisionals held two day-long book fairs at Barnes & Noble in February and April. Second, an Amazon Wishlist was created that allowed individuals to purchase any of the 14 titles and have them shipped directly to the League. Third, collection boxes were designed and placed at local businesses in the Shreveport area. Lastly, the class held two dine-in nights at local restaurants, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe and Twisted Root Burger Company, in March and April.

The project was successful. The class raised approximately $4,500.00, which translated to over 500 new, hardcover books for the library. The books were distributed to attendees at the Teen Summer Reading Preview Party hosted by the library at its Cedar Grove/Line Avenue Branch on Saturday, May 19. Teen attendees also enjoyed video gaming, virtual reality, and learned how to make their own video games with Bloxels, an innovative development platform.

But 2017-18 wasn’t all work and no play. In addition to the project, the Provisional Committee hosted several social events throughout the League year. Provisional Leaders Sarah Brantley and Jennifer Bradford hosted a Halloween social in October, which featured food and fun.

In December, Admissions/Provisional Assistant Chairman Hannah Alexander hosted a Tacky-Sweater Social featur-

ing an ornament exchange, and the Provisionals wrapped 120 individual gifts for Roy’s Kids, a charitable organization whose endeavors focus on ensuring underprivileged children are not left out due to financial difficulties. Then, this past spring, the class enjoyed “Cocktails with the Board” at Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe and an “End of the Year Bash” in May. Twenty eight dedicated women completed this year’s Provisional program and are now Active Members. The class was presented with opportunities to grow and lead within our League, and many rose to the occasion. Several Provisionals articulated that they shared new experiences and that the League fostered a different, positive approach to their voluntarism. The changes to the Provisional program were made to provide our new members with the volunteer skills needed to “hit the ground running” their first Active year in the League, all the while fostering an environment of togetherness so they may socialize and get to know one another. These changes helped the Provisional Committee teach this class what makes the League

such a unique and educational volunteer experience. With these changes, the program has become more flexible and adaptable to better meet the needs of our new members.

Furthermore, I truly believe these changes will allow the Provisionals to achieve greater success as Active Members.

I am extremely grateful for the honor and responsibility to lead our new members. But behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back, and I want to thank the League members for embracing the changes made to the Provisional program, especially Katie Baker, Heather Price, Hannah Alexander, Katherine Stringer-Davis, Sarah Brantley, Lauren Vizza, Jennifer Bradford, Courtney Moseley, Catherine Simpson, LeVette Fuller, Lecie Israel, Ali Feaster Smith, and Alex Person. I also want to thank my husband, William H. Priestley, Jr., who has supported and helped me throughout the League year in so many ways.

Finally, I impart these last words to our members from Cheryl Strayed’s Brave Enough: “Work hard. Do good. Be incredible.”

Deadline to join the 2018-19 Provisional Class:

June 23, 2018

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Kitchen

Kids in the

Each year, the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is dedicated to educating our youth about the importance of making healthy eating choices and exercising regularly through our Kids in the Kitchen program. This year’s Kids in the Kitchen Spring placement was no different. In mid-February, a small group of League members banded together to bring awareness to the importance of eating right, and implementing daily exercise routines to schoolaged children. Kids from several LightHouse and Friendship House program locations participated in the event. It was hard to tell who was more excited, the League volunteers, or the kids involved.

As the program fell in line with Mardi Gras, our mission was clear and the “Fit Tuesday” theme was born. Our spring program included five stations where the children engaged in hands-on nutrition and exercise activities, while also learning about Mardi Gras traditions. The children even received a different color Mardi Gras bead once

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Jessica Martin

they completed each station!

At one of our featured stations, the children were able to incorporate dancing as a means of exercising, and even participated in a New Orleans parade tradition known as a “second line.” We also brought back the all-time favorite “Snack Station” where the kids learned how to make fruit salad, the “Food Bingo” station that included additional prizes like chalk, jump ropes and frisbees, as well as the “Art Station” involving a story about king cakes and a coloring activity. The kids also visited the “Nutrition Facts” station where they learned how to read a nutrition label.

After each program concluded, the kids received a drawstring goody-bag with a pedometer, “throw” cup like you would receive at a parade, and a workbook with additional information from ChooseMyPlate.gov. Sticking with the theme, all items were Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold.

Celebrating Meeting with a Mission

Katie Baker & Katherine Douthitt

We are thrilled to celebrate our community project Meeting with a Mission, having helped with the needs of the students and teachers at two Caddo Parish schools in the “Transformation Zone.” The project was first launched as a way for our members to donate much-needed supplies to various nonprofits in our area, but quickly became focused on collecting supplies directly for the “Transformation Zone” schools. The project then further evolved to include volunteer support at school functions.

The evolved project initiative began at Westwood Elementary under the guidance of Principal “Sheriff” Renee Ellis. At Westwood, League members participated in Back-toSchool Night, reading events, teacher appreciation, and honors assemblies. We even gave bikes to some special students!

MWAM found its next home at Mooretown Elementary.

Under the direction of Principal Sheila Gladney, League members continued their support of the students and teachers in the same ways. The League hosted Back-to-School Nights to kick off the new school years, as well as fall carnivals, Christmas stocking stuffing parties, and teacher appreciation efforts. We also helped with some landscaping around the school and installed a new flowerbed.

This past year we continued our work with Mooretown focusing on Teacher Appreciation. Current Community VP and former Assistant Head Volunteer of MWAM Krystle Grindley, aptly noted that it’s so important to recognize these teachers, because “... they’re wearing so many hats. These teachers do the job of parents and teachers and counselors and everything else.” As part of this year’s Teacher Appreciation campaign, 2017-2018 President Katie Baker, made a special trip to Mooretown to deliver Valentine’s treats to all of the teachers and staff.

Krystle summed up the MWAM project as “a really positive, awesome experience to go out and help, because everyone is so invested in those children.” Krystle reflected on the “Jump Start to Read” event where League members went to Mooretown and read books to the children. She recalls a young girl‘s reaction while listening to Shea Frederick, former MWAM Head Volunteer read a story. Krystle said Shea was reading very emphatically and the little girl turned to Krystle with her eyes wide and said, “Oh my gosh, that’s so amazing!”

A picture was snapped at that exact moment and Krystle has it framed in her office. “Every time I look at that picture, I get warm fuzzies inside. It made my heart so glad.”

The Junior League has enjoyed its work with Westwood and Mooretown and we appreciate all of the efforts of our supporters and volunteers who helped with this meaningful work!

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Board

2018-2019

Heather Price, President Family: Husband, Marc; Daughter, Julia (8); Sons, Rand (5) and William (2). New puppy, Hattie (8 weeks).

Career/Occupation: Director of Operations for Porter’s Industrial First Active Year: 2012 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I have so many...I have enjoyed every Revel Pepsi shift that I have ever worked! It has been one of the best ways for me to get to know the other ladies in the League, while enjoying the atmosphere of the

Revel. I have also thoroughly enjoyed my year as President-Elect, being able to spend time with Vicki Clark while she was in town, learning from Katie, spending time with the ladies at Winter and Annual Conference, and working on the strategic plan. I have loved getting to meet so many talented women!

Fun Fact: I’m honored, excited and nervous about the next year as President! A more recent fun fact is that my husband adopted an 8-week old puppy while I was in Memphis for AJLI Annual Conference! I was shocked but we are so in love with her!

Katherine Douthitt, President-Elect Family: Husband, Jeff; sons, Cook (5) and Whit (2); and our dog, Dixie.

Career/Occupation: Attorney at Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin & Roberts First Active Year: 2010 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I loved attending Winter Conference in Long Beach,

CA with Heather and Saige. We had the best time getting to know each other and learning more about JL leadership. I’m looking forward to fun times ahead with these ladies and the rest of the Board and MT! Fun Fact: I love to cook, and am currently working on a recipe for a just-right breakfast bar. I’ll keep y’all posted!

Saige Solomon, Executive Vice President Family: Husband, Chris, is a CPA with Heard, McElroy, and Vestal; daughter, Lilly Grace, will be 4 in September; second daughter, Maggie, is due to arrive June 8.

Career/Occupation: Director of Alumni & Family Relations at Centenary College First Active Year: 2011 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: My favorite memory so far is probably traveling to Long Beach, CA for Winter Conference with Heather and Katherine. I really enjoyed getting to know them better and also hearing the various speakers that emphasized the “developing the potential of women” part of our mission. That experience was

like a “light bulb moment” in that it helped me realize that through the Junior League I have been (and will continue to be) challenged to live up to my full potential as a working woman and a mother. Being surrounded by so many caring women who are also working mothers is inspiring!

Fun Fact: In 2005, I ended up at a dinner party of about 12-15 people with Jimmy Fallon when he was here filming Factory Girl. Before my best friend and I left the dinner, he hugged us and said, “Bye, my new friends!” Too bad this was before iPhones—couldn’t exactly capture a selfie with Jimmy Fallon on my good ol’ Motorola Razor. Ha!

Leah Feldt, Secretary Family: Husband, Jason; Hudson (6), and Cooper (2).

Career/Occupation: Progressive Bank - Vice President/Credit Analyst Officer First Active Year: 2012 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I enjoyed my time as Assistant Treasurer and Treasurer

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on the JLSB Board. While at first, I wondered what I had gotten myself into, I learned so much about the League and was able to work with some wonderful people during those two years.

Fun Fact: My husband and I own Scuba Ventures Dive Shop and enjoy traveling to new places to scuba!

Board

2018-2019 Mary Monteleone, Treasurer Family: Josh Monteleone, spouse. Children: Josephine & Lena Career/Occupation: Internal Audit Consultant, Harland Clarke Holdings First Active Year: 2011 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I have enjoyed all community placements during

my time with the League. These placements give members the opportunity to truly connect with the community and see first-hand the impact of the services we provide.

Fun Fact: I enjoy being active and finding new ways to stay healthy.

Ellen Erwin, Nominating Chair Family: Clay Erwin, husband; Trigg, son, & Stratton, daughter.

Career/Occupation: Realtor assistant for Randolph Smith with RCM Realty First Active Year: 2012

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: My favorite placement was being on the Nominating Committee last year so I’m excited to be on it again!

Fun Fact: My mom was Nominating Chair during her League years so it’s special to be following in her footsteps.

Sarah Giglio, Project Research and Development Chair Family: Married to Trey Giglio Career/Occupation: Attorney/Partner at Gilmer & Giglio, LLC First Active Year: 2016

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: It’s a tie between serving on the Super Safety Saturday committee (because I met so many good friends there) and going to ODI in Memphis this year!

Fun Fact: I ran the Disney Marathon in 2013.

Catherine Simpson, Member at Large Family: I am married to Jayce Simpson. He works at Community Bank of Louisiana. We have one daughter, Mary Campbell Simpson, who was born on New Year’s Eve 2017.

Career/Occupation: Previously, I worked as a campaign and event coordinator for United Way of NW Louisiana. I am currently staying at home with our daughter.

First Active Year: 2015

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I enjoyed working on the Provisional team and guiding those women through their first year in the League. It was exciting to see like-minded individuals eager to join our work in the community.

Fun Fact: My husband and I both went to Ole Miss, two years apart, and never met until we both lived in Houston after college.

Ashley Busada, Member at Large Family: I have two older brothers and a younger sister. I’m the proud Aunt of a niece and nephew, with another niece coming in September.

Career/Occupation: North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP), VP Government Relations and Business Development First Active Year: 2012

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: Nominating Committee/Advisor Fun Fact: I am the co-founder of the Cinderella Project of Shreveport. Since 2012, we have provided over 1,000 FREE prom dresses to junior and senior high school girls in Northwest Louisiana.

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Board

2018-2019

Kelly Turner, Sustainer at Large Family: I am married to Jeff Turner and have 3 children. Christopher Castleman is my oldest and he is married to Jana Castleman (a Provisional this year). I also have twins, Sarah and Mary Beth Turner.

Sarah lives in The Woodlands, TX, and Mary Beth will move to Atlanta in the fall after she finishes her Master’s. I also have a spoiled rotten cat named Fifi.

Career/Occupation: I am a retired Financial Planner and was previously with The Equitable and Jefferson Pilot representing many other companies as well.

First Active Year: I am not sure of the year, but it is about 1989.

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I really did love Bargain Haul and my Revel shifts, but my favorite placement was researching how the League could help Providence House. I worked to help develop the first placements and projects there.

Fun Fact: I had my pilot’s license many years ago, but more recently (last May) I climbed Machu Picchu with my daughters.

Peggy Murphy, Sustainer Advisor Family: Married to David Murphy. Our children are Carolyn, Andrew, and Patrick. We have 3 dogs, Shadow, Tusk, and Aubrey.

Career/Occupation: Associate Professor in Academic Affairs, LSU Health

First Active Year: 1990 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: PR&D and President Fun Fact: Traveled to all 50 states.

Pictured above is the 2018-2019 Board and Management Team 20

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ManagementTeam

2018-2019

Laramie Guillot, Assistant Treasurer

Family: Husband, Jason; Sons, Nate (4) and Nash (1 month) Career/Occupation: Co-owner of Gymboree Play & Music, Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway

First Active Year: 2012 Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: Pumpkin Patch Fun Fact: I love ’90s rap!

Krystle Grindley, Community Vice President Family: John Grindley, husband.

Career/Occupation: Media Spokesperson, Parish of Caddo First Active Year: 2011

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: I loved being Education Chairman and planning personal development workshops for League members!

Fun Fact: I have visited all 64 parishes in Louisiana!

Maggie Pressly, Membership Vice President Family: Husband, Thomas; Son, Thomas.

Career/Occupation: Attorney - Bradley, Murchison, Kelly and Shea First Active Year: 2014

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: Getting to travel to Minnesota for AJLI Conference in May 2017.

Fun Fact: I grew up in Newport Beach, CA.

Meredith Armuth, Way & Means Vice President Family: Husband, Spencer Armuth Career/Occupation: Associate Director for Annual Giving at Centenary College First Active Year: Provisional year 2009-2010, first active year 2010-2011 in JL of Washington DC Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: Working on Kitchen Tour as the co-chair and then

chair. I’m excited to see our partnership with the Parade of Homes!

Fun Fact: I grew up water skiing and barefoot skiing almost every day in Pensacola, FL. I doubt I could still barefoot but I can still slalom ski and am a water baby at heart!

Katherine Stringer-Davis, Communications Vice President Family: Husband, William Pierre Davis, and our two dogs, Jaxx and Charlie Career/Occupation: Public Relations and Marketing Director for McDonald’s First Active Year: 2014

Favorite JLSB Memory or Favorite Placement: Dining with the young ladies from MAGIC’s Etiquette Class in 2015.

Fun Fact: I’m an extroverted introvert.

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Clay Shoot

The Second Annual

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Thank You to our Sponsors!

PLATINUM

GOLD

KOOZIE

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TABLE SPONSOR

IN-KIND/RAFFLE Bergeron’s • Dav Tac • Eagle Distributing • El Dorado Casino Hoogland’s Landscape • Lorant’s • OrangeTheory Fitness • Prepared Nutrition Red River Range • Shane’s Catering • Sid Potts • Sports South • Target – Bossier Target – Shreveport • University Veterinary Hospital • Wine Country TEAM Brown Builders • Dealers • Fibrebond • Progressive Bank j l sb.o rg | S ummer 2018 Pari shscope

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Thank You

Marie Vanderlick & Shannon Elder

BINGO! On March 1, 2018, more than 350 attendees were hoping to shout this out to win one of the amazing designer bags to be given away as bingo prizes! The inaugural Designer Bag Bingo fundraiser was a huge success raising over $35,000. Attendees were treated to delicious Mexican fare, an open bar, awesome raffles, and ten rounds of bingo. Excitement was in the air as KSLA News 12 anchor Adria Goins took the stage as the emcee of the event. Bingo winners received designer bags by Tod’s, Streets Ahead, Jon Hart, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Frye, Brahmin, India Hicks, Neely and Chloe, and Louis Vuitton.

And everyone held their breath as the winner of the Sid Potts Diamond Raffle was announced – one lucky winner received 14kt white gold brilliant cut diamond stud earrings weighing 1.82 ctw. Designer Bag Bingo was a fun-filled night of raising money to support the mission and community projects of the JLSB! Stay tuned for more information about next year’s event!

to our Sponsors!

Louis Level

Biedenharn Foundation

Tory Level

JLSB Sustainer Panel

Game Level

Handbag Level Dillard’s • Red River Bank The Village Washstand • Cactus at the Place Vickie Meadows, India Hicks Independent Representative Teresa Crawford • Catherine Glassen • Holly Garrett

Coach Level Magnolia Wealth Strategies: Payton Denney, Financial Planner East Ridge Country Club

Designer BAG B

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N

G

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Recipient s

201 7-2018 President’s Award

Anna Brown Priestley

Katherine Stringer-Davis

Crystal Johnson 26

Each year the President gets to select someone who has been instrumental to her presidency. There have been so many people that have made this year possible. I could have easily given this award to my husband who has supported me every step of the way. I also thought about giving this award to my law partners who were excited and proud of me for taking on this challenge, despite the decline in my billable hours! But the more I thought and prayed about it, the more these three names kept coming to the forefront—and for very good reason. This year I’ve selected three women who are deserving of the President’s Award, for not only their contribution to the JLSB, but because of how they truly impacted my year as President.

This first recipient of this year’s President’s Award is Anna Brown Priestley.

Anyone who knows Anna knows that she is smart, funny, supremely organized, energetic, loves cats, and loves the JLSB. Anna approached me two years ago with a twinkle in her eye and a fire in her heart about completely revamping the Provisional Program. She spent timeless hours researching other Junior League chapters around the country in search of new and innovative ways to make our chapter more enticing to women in the community. Upon completing her research, Anna created an entirely new program template to welcome, educate, and appreciate our Provisionals. As part of the new program, Anna introduced the idea of a “MiniProvisional Project.” This year the Provisional Class teamed up with ShreveMemorial Library to collect relevant book titles for teens. The project was executed flawlessly and was such a success! One of the women who has worked the closest with Anna this year said this of Anna, “Her spirit and nature reflect a positive image of the League, and her performance this past year exceeds the expectations of general membership with her unsurpassed interest in the League’s success and commitment to its vision of being a catalyst of lasting community change.” I could not agree more.

The second recipient of this year’s President’s Award is Katherine StringerDavis. Katherine truly stepped up to the plate this year and did not hesitate to go ALL IN to the position of Communications VP and agree to a 2-year term. Katherine has been instrumental in reworking our entire social media presence. She has worked with all of our fundraising committees to develop social media calendars to promote our fundraisers to ensure maximum social media coverage. She has been behind the scenes at almost every League event taking pictures to ensure that we had great photos for Facebook, Instagram, League Links, and the Parishscope. She has been so responsive to my every request (including those late at night and on the weekends) and patient with my ridiculous attention to detail. I know she has some big ideas for next year and I’m excited to see her continue to grow and lead our communications team.

And finally, the third recipient of the President’s Award is not a League member, but someone without whom I could not have made it through this year—my assistant, Crystal Johnson. I would venture to say that Crystal spent A LOT of her time this year working for the Junior League. Crystal made sure that I was always prepared for my meetings, showed up on time, and with all of the necessary materials in perfectly organized binders. Anyone who knows me also knows that I am a bit meticulous about things. I am so lucky to have Crystal who will do and re-do and re-re-do things until they are just right for me! Crystal has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make me look good all year long and I could not have pulled off this year without all of her help! Crystal is truly an honorary member of the JLSB.

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Year

201 7-2018 Volunteer of the

Marie Vanderlick

Each year, we honor a Volunteer of the Year. This individual is selected from members who have received at least one “Leading Lady” nomination over the course of this League Year. Nominations for volunteer of the year are requested from membership and, utilizing a points system, one member is selected for this honor. Nominations are based primarily upon outstanding performance and visibility within the League. The recipient of this award is meant to be a member who has demonstrated the principles espoused in the JLSB’s mission and vision statement. Her spirit and nature should reflect a positive image of the League.

This year’s recipient meets all of these requirements and then some. She has gone above and beyond the job description of her placement this year and, according to those who have served alongside her, she has been a joy to work with. This year’s Volunteer of the Year is awarded to Marie Vanderlick.

Marie was the co-chair of our first ever Designer Bag Bingo event. Through her hard work, attention to detail, and positive attitude, Marie succeeded in planning and implementing one of the League’s most successful fundraisers ever—Designer Bag Bingo. Designer Bag Bingo grossed over $35,000 in its very first year and by all accounts was a super fun event!

Here are some the things written about Marie in the nominations we received: “Marie worked harder and put in more time than anyone I have ever seen, in any placement…Marie would never admit it, but she is truly the most deserving of this award.”

“Marie did a truly AMAZING job making Designer Bag Bingo a fantastic success. She jumped in as the chair for a first-year fundraiser and she pulled together an event that was fun and successful by every standard. Marie put in countless hours, and she always gave her committee her very best. Marie’s efforts went far beyond just throwing a great event, which she definitely did, but her efforts ensured the continuation of the community projects sponsored by our Junior League.”

I was fortunate enough to work very closely with Marie this year on this new fundraiser. So, I can personally attest to her strong work ethic and ability to have fun while getting things done! I know chairing the first Designer Bag Bingo was a challenge for Marie, but one she met head on and used as an opportunity to develop her potential!

Congratulations to our 2017-2018 Volunteer of the Year, Marie Vanderlick, an outstanding member of the JLSB and my very good friend.

Katie Baker

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Grant s

Community Assistance Program (CAP) Heather Price

Improving Our Community Through Community Assistance Program Grants The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that four Community Assistance Program (CAP) grants were awarded to the following recipients during the 2017-2018 League year: Junior League of Houston – Hurricane Harvey Relief.

These funds were granted to assist our fellow Junior League of Houston during Hurricane Harvey flood relief efforts. The funds were used for short-term and long-term rebuilding efforts of the Houston area impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Louisiana State Exhibit Museum – This grant was funded to assist in material purchases for the 30th Annual Greening of the Museum. The Greening of the Museum offers an educational and creative learning experience to approximately 600 of our area’s 3rd graders. This presents a unique opportunity for the students to explore the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum while also demonstrating their creativity with an element of arts education.

Renzi Education and Arts Center – These funds were granted to assist in unexpected building and roof repairs to the Renzi Academic building. Renzi’s programs offer a safe, nurturing environment for area youth that would otherwise be on the street during peak juvenile crime hours. Without the repairs, the center would have been unable to continue their free academic assistance and multidisciplinary art-based activities for the students they serve.

Salvation Army’s Merkle Center of Hope – The funds granted to the Salvation Army were used to assist in the critical purchase of washers and dryers. Major Whitney Morton of The Salvation Army of Northwest Louisiana Corps Office says, “The individuals who stay at the shelter have access to amenities that help to improve their quality of life as they work to transition from homelessness to permanent housing. One of those amenities is access to laundry facilities. It’s crucial for our residents to have clean clothes for job interviews and for us to have fresh linens ready when we’re called upon to house someone. We are so thankful for the funding we received through our CAP grant to purchase new washers and dryers.”

Celebrations Tiffany Metoyer (Provisional) graduated from Grand Canyon University with a B.A. in Early Childhood Education on April 28, 2018. an oasis just off linwood Road at i-49 & la3132

gardenparknursingandrehab.com | 318-688-0961

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Scholarship Recipient s

201 7-2018

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier, Inc. (JLSB) is pleased to recognize two outstanding young women, Zoe Ance and Olivia Davis, as the recipients of the 2017-2018 JLSB scholarship. Both were chosen for their academic achievements and commitment to serving their communities.

Zoe Ance graduated from Airline High School with an outstanding GPA of 4.13. She completed over 150 service hours during her time at Airline. Zoe plans to attend the University of Arkansas and pursue a degree in Graphic Design.

Zoe’s community impact truly lines up with the mission of the Junior League. She spent the last three years serving as mentor to the children at Volunteers of America’s LighthouseBossier. Not only has she been a volunteer at the Lighthouse, she has encouraged many of her classmates to join her. She has also spent time serving at Common Ground, Community Renewal Friendship houses, and Laundry Love. Zoe says she mentors at the Lighthouse because those children have the opportunity to be world changers and cycle breakers. Zoe truly has a servant heart and an inspiring passion for improving the lives of those in our community.

Olivia Davis graduated from Caddo Magnet High with a GPA of 3.06. She has completed over 150 service hours during her high school years and received numerous recognitions for her volunteer work. Olivia plans to attend Louisiana Tech in the Fall. She has a true philanthropic heart. Not only has she served the community in many different ways, but she has also taken a time of hardship and transformed it into something of great value. After hearing the news that her Aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, Olivia immediately went to work creating kits that were uplifting to those on their journey through chemotherapy. She founded Libbey’s Chemo Kits, and to date, over 650 kits have been distributed.

The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier thanks Zoe and Olivia for the impact they have made on the lives of so many and the remarkable service to our community. We congratulate them on receiving the 2017-2018 scholarships!

Zoe Ance & Olivia Davis (pictured with Katie Baker & Heather Price)

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Hist ory

JLSB Headquarters

Melissa Airhart

Good stewardship of the funds raised by the membership has been a driving force behind the leadership of the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier. The recent early payoff of the mortgage on the organization’s headquarters building at 2601 Line Avenue is exactly that!

Purchased in 2009, the sale price of the building was $365,000. After putting down a hefty down payment, the original 30-year mortgage was $250,000. An additional principal payment of $72,000 was made in 2011. Then in 2013, $143,502 was refinanced. Another additional principal payment in 2014 got the loan down to $100,000, with another additional principal payment made the following year. This past March, when the League paid off the loan—10 years early—the payoff was $29,233.45.

Due to the League’s diligent use of funds and prudent financial oversight, Treasurer Leah Smith said the organization had extra cash on hand and it made sense financially to pay off the outstanding debt of the mortgage.

“We felt this is what the Board that purchased the building would want. They really wanted to have a place that was ours, and could continue to be ours, no matter what,” said Treasurer Leah Smith. “It feels great to know [a mortgage] is one less burden future Boards will have to bear, as they focus instead on providing meaningful service to the community.”

The League’s original location was on Fairfield Avenue. It became the (now closed) Cambridge Club after the League sold the property. The proceeds from that sale were placed in the bank and reserved for the purchase of another facility. The League relocated to Madison Park near Ki’ Mexico. With an impending raise in monthly rent to $3,500 and an expiring lease, a move to the upper floor of the Highland Center was next.

The Highland Center became the League’s temporary home for close to a decade. The rent for the space at the Highland Center plus the additional cost of a storage facility for cookbooks was about $1,075 per month.

“We went to the Highland Center and the rent was really low, so we just got used to paying that and we couldn’t find anything that was as affordable to rent,” said Sustainer and former Treasurer Molly McInnis.

Past President Toni Thompson says the space was just what the League needed at that time. The Highland Center was a non-profit incubator, which allowed the League

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to pour more money into community projects. This was before yearly League fundraisers were established. “We were doing Bargain Haul every other year and Trends & Traditions hadn’t come online yet where we had a steady stream on income,” she said.

Ultimately, owning property was the goal for the future and the decision was made to begin the search for a permanent home for the League. “We decided to look for something to buy as a long-term investment. We found [the current property] and it had the potential for renting out the other suites to other businesses if we didn’t need them,” said McInnis.

“As a Board that year, we really pushed forward and realized that we needed something that functioned better for our membership. We wanted to be in a neighborhood where others would see potential, start community projects, and impact the zip code we were in,” said Thompson.

“It all worked out that we found this building for sale. It was not in great shape, but we could see that it fit a lot of our needs.”

The League moved into its permanent home on Monday, November 23, 2009. The work of renovating the space began the following year under the direction of past President Jodi McJunkins. Former League member Jenny Johnston of Jenny Johnston Interiors designed and decorated it.

To commemorate their hard work, members of the Board that year were gifted with a small charm of a front door with the address engraved on the back.

McInnis says Board members put intense thought and planning into the purchase of the building and strove to utilize the League’s funds responsibly. “Everyone wants to do the best for the Junior League, spend the money wisely, and get a good product, because they know how hard everyone has worked to raise the money,” she said.

“We are so conservative financially that we had a hard time deciding to part with it and a hard time deciding how much of a down payment to make. Now, I’m delighted to hear that the building has been paid off early. That’s a great asset for us to have, and the security of a place to continue the League’s work.”

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Memorable Moment s 2018 Past President s Luncheon

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MAGIC

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Cookbook Recipe Cambridge Club’s Blueberry Apple Pie Serves 6 to 8

Pie

Ingredients: 1 unbaked (9-inch) pie shell 2 egg whites, lightly beaten 2 cups milk 1/3 cup honey 5 egg yolks 1/4 cup cornstarch 10 envelopes Splenda 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and coarsely chopped 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup water 3/4 cup plain yogurt

Topping

Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream 5 envelopes Splenda 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions: PIE

Pierce the pie shell with a fork and brush with the egg whites. Bake

at 325 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Combine the milk and honey in a saucepan and bring just to a boil.

Remove from the heat. Whisk the egg yolks, cornstarch, and Splenda in a heatproof bowl until blended. Stir some of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture; then stir the egg yolk mixture into the milk mixture. Cook over medium heat until the first bubbles appear, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and let stand until cool. Mix the apples, blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, and water in a saucepan and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally; do not overcook.

Remove from the heat and let stand until cool. Fold the apple mixture into the milk mixture. Fold in the yogurt. Spoon into the baked pie shell and chill for 2 hours or longer.

TOPPING

Beat the ingredients in a mixing

bowl until firm peaks form. Spread over the pie filling. Store, covered, in the refrigerator until serving time.

Built in 1912 amongst majestic oaks, The Cambridge Club of Shreveport was originally the Palmer family residence in the historic Highland District. In 1955, the League bought the house, which served as its headquarters for seventeen years. The house was sold in 1972 to the late Joe Corrente and his wife, Lumen.

The Campanellas purchased the property in 1982 and thus began the Cambridge Club of Shreveport. Greg and Patti Carey purchased the Cambridge Club in 2001, and they carry on a twenty-plus-year tradition that consistently offers its members and the highest of standards on service and cuisine.

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2601 Line Avenue Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

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PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID Shreveport, LA Permit No. 856