ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2020
IN THIS ISSUE • Spirit of Mary Harriman Award • Council Reports • Board Briefs • New Active’s Bios • 100th Update • Condolences • Community Update • COVID 19 and the League update
Virtual Trivia • June 4, 2020 • 7:00 PM • Conducted via Zoom June GMM (Virtual) • Tuesday, June 9, 2020 ¥ 6:30 PM • Conducted via Zoom Check the member’s website for full registration and event details.
21st Annual Spirit of Mary Harriman
Community Service Award Honoree
MARGARET KARIM “Even in these hard times, we have become closer to our family, our friends, and our neighbors. The world has changed for the good.” ~ Margaret Karim “It is befitting that two women, Mary Harriman and Margaret Karim, living a century apart could agree ‘the world has changed for the good’.” ~ Wendy Carl Isome 2020 Conversation about Coronavirus between Margaret & Wendy The Spirit of Mary Harriman Community Leadership Award celebrates a woman of outstanding leadership in The Junior League of Syracuse. She is a person who uses her talents and resources to improve the social and economic conditions of others and epitomizes the League’s Mission and Vision. She has made positive impact in both her League and her community. The tradition and dedication of our Founder, Mary Harriman, lives on in this year’s nominee. Continued on page 2
The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 1
Spirit of Mary Harriman continued...
Margaret, a graduate of the University of Buffalo and Columbia University, joined the League as a provisional in 1972. Sponsored by Lyn Marshall and the late Joan Poorman, Margaret became an active member a year later in 1973. She brought her Masters degree and experience in education along with a host of other skills to the League, including teaching, training, public speaking, advising, counseling, fundraising, organizing benefits, campaigns public action, lobbying, researching and personal interviewing. She served on a host of committees and attended several trainings over her active years, including Vander Camp, Mini-Law Course and Career Development to name a few. Margaret became a Sustainer in 1979. Margaret recalled one of her favorite memories of Junior League. It happened while setting up the Whale of the Sale, a huge garage sale held in the War Memorial and the primary fund-raising predecessor to Holiday Shoppes. Margaret recounted she and other JLS members were in the War Memorial and realized this volunteer experience was truly helping people. Margaret said she has lived a long and productive life, learning that it is important to give back to your community, be thankful for our support system, see your reality and find your blessings. Wendy went on to write “it is a tradition to hear inspirational remarks from Margaret in an informal setting.” Her passion for education, culture and the Arts has seen her serving and working to improve the community for the last six (6) decades. Here is just a snap shot of some of the community organizations Margaret has served and volunteered in: St. Joseph’s Auxiliary, Upstate Medical Burn Unit, Cerebral Palsy Center Board, Columbus Day Volunteer Fair Committee member, Onondaga County Medical Society-Women’s Auxiliary Scholarship Fundraiser Chairman-Art Show/Concert, Planned Parenthood, Red Cross Fundraising, YWCA, League of Women voters, Urban Community Workshop at Sagamore, Everson Museum Members Council/Docent/Ambassadors Program Liaison/ Auction Committee, Syracuse Symphony Guild, Crouse Irving Memorial Hospital Fashion show & special projects and Front Row Players Board, an organization near and dear to her. However, Margaret is not just known for her League and community work. In true trailblazer fashion she switched her career path from education and began a new career as an award-winning realtor, an incredibly challenging move for a woman in the1970’s. While Margaret takes pride in being one of the 1st special education teachers, she shined as a realtor. Her career achievements and awards are impressive. The most current: 2018 CENTURY 21 Double Diamond Award & 2018 #1 Regional Award in Upstate NY for Production Volume and Units, CENTURY 21 Master Team Award Winner 2017 Member of Multi-Million Dollar Club Member of the Gold Medallion Club Bronze Award National Association of Home Builders Professional Merit Award, Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors Member of National Association of Realtors Member of New York State Association of Realtors Certified Residential Specialist, CRS Certified Marketing Master RMM Platinum Award Winner 2007 1st Place, Gross Commission Income, Fayetteville Office International Diamond Society. When she speaks of her “Karim Team” you can tell how proud she is. 2 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
UNFLAPPABLE, would be a great one-word description of the cherished Emeritus Sustainer. Margaret has supported The Junior League of Syracuse in countless ways over her many years of membership. She is a loyal JLS friend and mentor. Margaret’s generosity show from the minute she greets you with a warm and welcoming smile. She epitomizes generosity of spirit, of inclusion When you shop on Amazon please go to the Amazon and of unfailing support. Smile webpage and support the Junior League of Syracuse. In true Mary Harriman form, Margaret has used her Amazon will donate .5% of your eligable purchases to the success and resources to support and aid the League Junior League of Syracuse at no cost to you! Here are and her community. Margaret has been a long-time some details from Amazon’s website. NOTES advertiser and supporter. She and her husband, Dr. Raja Abdul Karim have hosted numerous League What is AmazonSmile? events including a 2016 JLS Sustainer Cocktail Party AmazonSmile is a simple way for you to support your Hostess, a 2018 JLS Training Event, focused on the state favorite charitable organization every time you shop, at of the Syracuse community and is a frequent attendee at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, Sustainer R&R events. you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and Margaret and Raja live in Fayetteville. Margaret is still active in business while Raja, now retired after 61 years as an obstetrics and gynecology specialist, is enjoying some long-awaited down time. They are the proud parents of Christopher, an Entrepreneur who lives in Manlius, and Kenneth, a PhD Psychologist living in Maryland.
convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added benefit that Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases to the charitable organization of your choice. Please support the Junior League of Syracuse
How do I shop at AmazonSmile? Please join us in congratulating, Margaret Karim, the To shop at AmazonSmile simply go to smile.amazon.com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. 2020 Spirit of Mary Harriman Honoree.
Lynne Hamilton-Johnson & Evonne Pacini Which products on AmazonSmile are eligible for Sustainer VPs
MEMBER ENGAGEMENT Hello JLS! As you know many of our member engagement activities are now on hold, however we miss seeing everyone! We are looking for ideas and suggestions on how to stay connected. We currently are planning some social distancing activities and zoom connections! If you have an idea send it my way via text at 508-954-5340! I hope everyone is hanging in there and we look forward to “seeing” everyone soon!
Rachel Ciotti
charitable donations? Tens of millions of products on AmazonSmile are eligible for donations. You will see eligible products marked “Eligible for AmazonSmile donation” on their product detail pages. Recurring Subscribe-and-Save purchases and subscription renewals are not currently eligible.
Can I use my existing Amazon.com account on AmazonSmile? Yes, you use the same account on Amazon.com and AmazonSmile. Your shopping cart, Wish List, wedding or baby registry, and other account settings are also the same. How do I select a charitable organization to support when shopping on AmazonSmile? On your first visit to AmazonSmile smile.amazon.com, you need to select a charitable organization to receive donations from eligible purchases before you begin shopping. We will remember your selection, and then every eligible purchase you make at smile.amazon.com will result in a donation. The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 3
M E E T
O U R
N
JENNIE JUNTA
HOMETOWN: Liverpool, NY WHY I JOINED: I joined the JLS to learn leadership skills and to give back to the community by volunteering and charity work. FUN FACT: As a child in the Philippines, I was a regular cast in a children’s TV show.
DERYN POMEROY
HOMETOWN: Lafayette, NY WHY I JOINED: I am joining the Junior League to learn additional ways that I can give back to my community and to meet other like-minded women after moving back to the area. FUN FACT: While in college, I traveled to Bogota, Colombia to practice my Spanish-speaking skills without telling my parents until I was already there. “Hi Mom!”
ALEC THOMPSON
HOMETOWN: I’m from a military family and grew up in Hawaii, England, and the Midwest but I have lived in the Liverpool area for eight years and consider myself an upstate New Yorker. WHY I JOINED: I joined the Junior League looking for opportunities to become active within the community. FUN FACT: My husband and I are high school sweethearts and have been together for almost seven years. We have two rescue pups, Jack and Bodhi!
ELIZABETH LAMONDO
HOMETOWN: Camillus, NY WHY I JOINED: I joined the JLS for leadership and to give back to my community. FUN FACT: Ice hockey is my passion. I have played since I was 8 years old, played division 3 in college, and coached at the 14U level in my local community. 4 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
E W
A C T I V E S
LAUREN HOCHENBERGER HOMETOWN: Hamilton, OH WHY DID I JOIN JLS: I joined to be a part of the community and to help others. I have been volunteering since grade school, and since I moved here I have been looking for a way to meet people and do some good deeds. Junior League seems like a great fit! FUN FACT: I come from an absolutely huge family. I was completely surrounded by them growing up - I have over five hundred cousins on my mom’s side alone.
PERRIN HICKEY
HOMETOWN: I grew up in Tully, NY WHY I JOINED: We’ve recently returned to CNY and excited to join the Junior League of Syracuse for volunteer opportunities as well as networking and meeting new people FUN FACT: I had settled in the Seacoast of New Hampshire with my husband and 4 kids until our recent move back!
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BOARD BRIEF
MARCH 2020:
• Keeping the Holiday Shoppes ticket requirement • Not distributing the 1st Centennial Scholarship until 2020-2021 • Signed up to be part of the AJLI Placement/ Matching program • Working on the National Grid and John Ben Snow grants • Dues/Annual Appeal going out by the end of the month • National Volunteer week activities planned • Stem • Clary’s Closet • YWCA
APRIL 2020:
• Holding off on sending corporate sponsor letter because of CV19 • Received grant from Morgan Stanley • Reaching out to 100th anniversary partners who provide essential services to see if they need their 100th anniversary monies early • Membership renewal has gone out, extending the due date because of CV19 • Night at the Derby is canceled for 2020 due to CV19 • Considering canceling 2020 annual dinner because of CV19, might have a virtual meeting • New member class has been meeting over Zoom • May GMM via Zoom • Still moving forward with the Spirit of Mary Harriman • The League office is closed until May 31st
MAY 2020:
• AJLI to host its annual meeting virtually • 100th anniversary- reaching out to organizations and how to work together on the 100th anniversary projects going forward, might need to modify some projects • Centennial Celebration rescheduled until 2021 • New Member vote will be held at the June GMM • 1st Zoom GMM to be held next week • Annual Dinner canceled and had been converted into a Zoom meeting • Placement paperwork is now online • Still moving forward with the John Ben Snow grant as originally drafted • Considering options for Holiday Shoppes 2020 • Sustainer Cocktail Party Canceled
6 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
100 Years of Giving: A Salute to Our Past, Present, and Future
We started off the 100th Anniversary article in the Spring edition with, “Our centennial year has started off with a bang!” Yes, the coronavirus has thrown a wrench in the plans, but that does not mean we are done celebrating our 100th Anniversary. It simply means our 100th Anniversary plans will span 2 years!
Centennial Celebration – date change! The Centennial Celebration will still be held at the OnCenter, but the date is getting pushed to 2021! We will update you as soon as a new date is confirmed. STAY TUNED!
Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. Centennial Education Fund The Centennial Education Fund will continue to work throughout the next year. The first scholarship will be recipient will be announced at the 2021 Centennial Celebration event at the OnCenter. More information in regards to applications and processes will be announced in the coming months. If you are interested in joining the committee, please contact Jenny Donahoe at jennyjackso@gmail.com.
Monthly Project Updates The monthly projects are currently on pause. However, it is important to note, that we will resume all projects as soon as we can safely do so. We recognize that the projects will also have to push into 2021 to complete them. The following are some updates: Boys and Girls Club – SMART Girls on the Go! - started with the viewing of the movie, Harriet on March 7, 2020, but all other work with them had to be placed on hold. Samaritan Center – their basic needs closet was designed and the rebuild was performed by California Closets. We were able to pay for this build out, but the stocking of the closet and volunteer projects with the Samaritan Center have been temporarily postponed. Continued on page 7...
100th update continued... Diaper Bank – they contacted us requesting that the financial aspect of our project be fulfilled early due the drastic impact that COVID-19 has had on the community that the Diaper Bank services. We were able to make that happen. A volunteer service project with the Diaper Bank will likely occur later into the second half of 2020. On Point for College – they have contacted us in regards to the project that we planned for this summer. Our co-captains are currently working with them to see if there should be a shift from dorm room materials to possibly computers and electronics since we do not know what college classes will look like this fall. The details of this project are still currently being worked out.
League Operations during CV19 and Re-Opening the League The Junior League of Syracuse held its last live GMM on March 10th. The old/new board met for socially distanced leadership training on March 14th. It was during that meeting that it was decided that the league would move to virtual operations effective immediately and would reconsider the status of operations on May 1st. Since moving to virtual operations the board and various committees have continued to meet via zoom and other virtual platforms. We even hosted our first virtual GMM in May and plan to host another in June.
Thankfully community collaborations was able to continuing support various community partners through a virtual National Volunteer week. We donated supplies to the Samaritan Center. We donated hygiene kits to YMCA. We donated supplies to Clary’s closet. We had to cancel STEM due to social As you can see, we have been moving distancing requirements, but we are looking forward to resuming this event ahead as best we can with the 100th next year. Anniversary monthly projects. We are currently in contact with our co- Our 100th anniversary was not completely put on hold. Most of the projects captains and non-profit awardees to have been postponed, due to CV19. However, a couple of essential services determine how we can still successfully reached out and asked if we could work with them in modifying their monthly complete the projects in a safe way project. The Samaritan Center was able to move forward with rebuild of it that benefits both organizations. In food pantry. We helped fund this project and are looking forward to stocking the next few weeks, we will be able the pantry and helping serve a meal at a later date. The Diaper Bank reached to see how the restart of our area is out and asked if we could pre-fund the project. We were more than happy to working and put together a game plan do so. The project component will take place at a later date. We recognize of how we will be moving forward. that the current health crisis might have altered the time lines and needs of New information will be sent out our 100th anniversary community partners. We are in the process of reaching via email blasts, monthly meetings, out to each community partner to see if their needs have changed. We are and sustainer mailings once it is also working with them to restructure projects so that they can be completed made available. We look forward to in a manner that is aligned with CDC, state and local guidelines and putting working with everyone and seeing the health and safety of our membership at the forefront. We will provide the league with updates on these projects as the come available. you soon!
Season Seferyn
100th Anniversary
We cannot believe that the 2019-2020 year is coming to an end. We are continuing to monitor the situation in our local community. We will keep you updated on the status of operations. In the meantime we are hoping to use this virtual world as a time to reflect and refine the direction of the Junior League of Syracuse for the next 100 years. Stayed tuned for opportunities on how you can help us do that. Audra Mueller President
The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 7
AJLI VIRTUAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE Like many organizations’ AJLI had to find a new way to host its annual meeting due to CV19. Instead of meeting in Cincinnati, OH, AJLI hosted its first virtual annual meeting on Saturday, May 16, 2020. Ahead of the meeting leagues were asked to submit proxy votes for the business that was to be voted upon. The meeting started with a presentation of the incoming and outgoing board and governance teams. They were thanked for their service. Next they moved right into the Bylaw amendments. There were 2 amendments that were being voted upon. There was quorum, as enough leagues submitted their proxy ballots. The first dealt with changing the name of Executive Director to CEO. The second dealt with removing the geographic zones. Both of the Bylaw amendments passed. The meeting then transitioned into a virtual awards presentation. The awards that were presented were: the Mary Harriman Community Leadership award, the Rising Star award, the Member Engagement/Recruitment award, the Fund Development award, the Public Policy award, the Community impact award and the Leadership Development award. The award winners will be recognized at the Special Meeting being held in Grapevine, TX in October 2020. More information about the award winners can be found in an all-league email that went out on May 20th. Next there was a finance update. They informed the membership that AJLI was the recipient of a small business grant. When reviewing the financials that noticed that there is a continued decline in membership. They are planning for a full year of traditional conferences next year. However, given all that is going on in our communities they are going to continue to monitor the financial climate and make adjustments as needed. In addition to giving an overall finance update. The association provided updates from the finance task force. The association is still looking into ways to eliminate the financial barriers of membership. They are continuing to explore alternate payment plans. They are also continuing 8 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
to explore a dues increase, they recognized that this was not the time to do it and that there would be an update provided at the fall meeting. Finally there was a recommendation to continue with the dues cap for large leagues. The meeting closed with current President, Laurel Lee Alexander introducing the new President Bett Williams. If anyone is interested in viewing the annual meeting a link to the webcast can be found in the all-league email that went out on May 20th. Next year AJLI hopes to get back to its normal annual meeting format. Next year’s annual meeting is scheduled to take place in Indianapolis, IN.
Audra Mueller
President
Andy Breuer, president of Hueber-Breuer Construction, his wife Amy, and their two children.
My wife and I engage our children in philanthropy by collaboratively choosing which organizations we support through our donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation.
Family Giving:
The Breuers Read more of the Breuers’ story at cnycf.org/Breuer
315.422.9538 | CNYCF.ORG
FUND DEVELOPMENT Night at the Derby – As you are aware, this event did not take place as scheduled on May 2nd, however, SKY Armory was graciously willing to extend our deposits to next year’s event and will hold the date of May 1st for us. We thank SKY Armory for working with us and look forward to a great event in 2021! JLS is in the midst of Annual membership renewal - As we welcome this new decade in 2020 and celebrate our 100th year, the local community continues to need JLS trained volunteers and leaders who are committed to improving our community and cultivating lasting change. Your investment and membership in the JLS truly sustains our mission and ability to continue our legacy of developing civic leaders who are catalysts sparking positive change in the Syracuse community. The JLS is so fortunate to have such a strong and committed membership! The Board is thankful for how our members have responded during this difficult time. To date, we have had 90 members renew and have received donations of $3,187.40. We understand that this is an uncertain time in our lives and many members are in turmoil. That being said, many have also inquired about how we can help each other. The Board discussed and decided that in an effort to help our members in need, the JLS will be accepting donations towards a “scholarship” fund for member dues. Although there isn’t specifically a fund for this, please direct your donation to Annual Fund/Mission Support and indicate in the memo section that it is to be applied to scholarship for member dues.
bring impactful change to our community. Please bring your ideas and experiences to the committee for consideration! We would love to hear from you.
Marie Norkett
Fund Development VP
Thank you to our League Sponsors
Cicero
There was also an inadvertent omission of “Emeritus” status on the renewal notice. Apologies to our JLS longstanding and dedicated members. The corporate sponsors committee has paused in soliciting new sponsors at this time and will continue to be sensitive to the local community before reaching out for additional opportunities for partnership. Please continue to support our local partners and sponsors! Our FD committee is hard at work brainstorming ideas for engagement and alternative fundraising ideas heading into the 20202021 league year. Also, modifications will likely be required for planned events such as Holiday Shoppes. We will continue to review options and come up with solutions that will sustain our efforts at providing leadership training opportunities to our members and The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 9
OUR COM As our world came to a dramatic halt with the pandemic the needs in our community changed. We used to be able to see a need in our community and go out and help. In the new era of social distancing we can no longer be hands on or work side by side to achieve our mission and vision. We have had to adapt our way of serving the community and our fellow non-profits have felt the impact as well. We wanted to highlight how our Community Committe has adapted and was able to help a few organizations and also provide updates on two organizations that are adjusting in these difficult times as well. These two organizations are near and dear to our hearts here at the Junior League of Syracuse. This is the time to help one another and put a spotlight on all the good in our community as we navigate this new territory. We will get through this and come out stronger together!
Heather Ford Wallace
NOTES Editor
The Community Collaborations Committee, like many other groups, has had to adjust and pivot our community involvement in light of COVID-19. While regulations from our governor, county executive, etc. paused our volunteer activities, we were still able to honor a unique approach to National Volunteer Week. Knowing our community partners were seeing different needs quickly, we expedited our scheduled National Volunteer Week donations early to assist the best we could. We began with our #JLSMyMonday were members had the independence to contribute to the community in any way that best fit them. This is a great way that we kick off National Volunteer Week each year and highlight the various ways members show their commitment to the community. On Tuesday, the JLS donated newly packaged underwear and socks to Clary’s Closet in a variety of sizes. These are items that are always in high demand and rarely donated. Alysia Clary (who recently spoke about the mission of Clary’s Closet at a JLS GMM this past year) shared, “Wow!! Thank you so very much for this amazing order. I just received them and I can’t believe how generous you ladies are! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, now more than ever our youth is suffering. These new socks and underwear will be so appreciated.”
for women at the YWCA. In response, Nora Putnam from the YWCA said, “Thank you so very much. The JLS, has been more than generous with the YWCA Residence and we appreciate it very much. On behalf of the women’s residents, we thank you all of you ladies for your kindness, particularly during these complicated times. We the YWCA are very grateful.” For Thursday, the JLS coordinated with The Samaritan Center and sent a supply of higher need items: (eco-friendly) clamshells for their meals as all need to be to-go at this time, Ziploc sandwich bags for to-go snacks, and individually wrapped snacks for the population they serve. As things had to change rapidly, we had to cancel our annual STEM Expo for 2020, but look forward to continuing this partnership in 2021.
As the JLS 2019-2020 year ends, even with the unprecedented COVID-19, the community impact from the league was great. While I will be transitioning to a new role in JLS this year, I look forward to seeing the continued commitment and positive effect JLS has within For Wednesday, the JLS sent basic hygiene supplies the community. (deodorant, tampons, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, Casey Duffy toothpaste, etc. and reusable bags) for 50 hygiene kits Community VP 10 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
MMUNITY In times of great uncertainty, it is comforting to know that there are people that really, truly care. The dedicated staff at Vera House are helping some of the most vulnerable in our community – adults and children impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence or elder abuse – and have shown an outpouring of compassion over the past few months. We’ve had to pivot the way we deliver our services, but we are still working to meet the needs of victims and survivors. We are answering calls on our 24-hour support & information line (315-468-3260) and providing emergency shelter. We are providing advocacy and therapy services remotely via phone and video conferencing, responding to sexual assault victims at hospitals via phone and have had great success hosting support groups virtually through video platforms. We are committed to being here for victims during this stressful time. We’ve also implemented services in creative, new ways. • In April, we successfully launched Web Chat, which is a safe and private way to connect with a Vera House advocate. Web Chat is available everyday from 8:30 am - 11:00 pm on www.verahouse.org. • Our Legal Project has been coordinating an electronic family offense clinic to provide help over the phone to callers who want to request a Family Court order of protection. • Our Youth Education Prevention program has partnered with a few schools to provide virtual education on domestic and sexual violence. • Our Campus Project team is committed to providing virtual office hours throughout the summer to maximize the team’s ability to reach and engage students, staff, and faculty on local college campuses. • Our Abuse in Later Life team has partnered with community organizations and groups to provide tools to use in reaching socially isolated older adults.
The mission of Francis House is ongoing despite the Covid-19 pandemic. While we have temporarily consolidated into one house, we are blessed and continue to admit residents into our home and our care. As we continue to take all precautions to insure the safety of our residents and staff, we have temporarily consolidated our care into one house. This has gone very smoothly. Our care staff is working in alternating teams as a safety precaution so that we will always have staff ready and available for any contingency. A number of our administrative staff are working from home to help us insure the physical distancing guidelines from the CDC. We have wonderful support from our community, with calls to inquire how we are doing, donations of food and supplies and of course prayers and good wishes. Our Menu Coordinator has worked out a schedule for each day’s main meal and we are well supplied for the immediate future. The food is delicious and well received by both residents and staff. We are grateful to all of our staff for being so present to our residents and their families. With Face Time and phone calls our care staff have worked very hard to help maintain the communication and connection between our residents and their loved ones. We are grateful too for the love and support of all of our volunteers; our Board members, Auxiliary Board members, and the house and special interest volunteers who continue to support us from afar. Our volunteers have always been the heart of our home and now more than ever, we feel the impact of their absence. We hope that the hole in our heart will soon be healed and we will be able to gather again as family.
Please know that you are not alone. If you’re unsafe, afraid or are a victim of violence or abuse, we are here to help you. Call us anytime day or night. The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 11
SUSTAINER NEWS Up until two months ago, “Zoom” was a 70’s children’s television program and “Virtual” meant almost or nearly to most of us.
Please give them a warm welcome. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful and talented pair representing us next year.
History is being made in these unprecedented times Until we see you again, stay safe, stay healthy, keep us and we are all part of it. It would have been hard if not posted on your good works. impossible to envision that in our 100th year most of us, our community, our country and the world, would Lynne Hamilton-Johnson be restricted to our homes to work and/or wait, while Evonne Pacini others would be out there as essential workers ensuring our health and wellbeing. Sustainer VPs We send our thanks to each and every one of you for doing your part. Just by staying home you are helping our community. We must also send our extreme gratitude to those of you in the medical and emergency services professions who are serving on the frontlines of this pandemic. They in addition to workers in essential service industries are ensuring that we can stay at home safely. Thanks, to the teachers working remotely to keep our children educated and thanks to everyone who has found ways to reinvent their workplace and support themselves and others. We applaud your resilience.
VIRTUAL TRIVIA NIGHT JUNE 4TH 7:30 PM
Please see Seeing Spot or JLS website for details.
Our Sustainers and Actives are staying true to our volunteer roots as well. We have heard many stories of our members continuing to volunteer, during social distancing. They are sewing and donating masks, volunteering & meeting remotely, purchasing & delivering goods to those more at risk, supporting local businesses and so many other efforts to aid their community. You are our heroines! Although we have had to cancel and postpone many of our gatherings, it has not stopped our Mission. Our members have continued to find new and inventive ways to improve their community. We ask that you keep us posted on your activities so we may share. Whether you realize it or not you are adding a host of valuable skills to our volunteer tool kits for the future. When this time has passed, we will be able to look back with pride at our inspiring and undaunted JLS members. In the meantime, Evonne and I want to thank you all for a fantastic year! We have thoroughly enjoyed our time representing Sustainers as we hand off the baton with confidence to our incoming Sustainer VPs, Janet Burman and Donna Hamilton. 12 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
Experience is The Karim Team Advantage!
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Theresa Billy 315.825.1075
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LEADERSHIP SLATE
2020-2021
The Nominating Committee is pleased to present the 2020-2021 Leadership Slate (voted in at the March General Membership Meeting).
PRESIDENT (2019-2021) - Audra Mueller PRESIDENT-ELECT (2020-2021) - Amanda Perrine EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT (2020-2022) -
Kate Zwecker
TREASURER (2020-2022) - Jennifer Psynack SECRETARY (2019-2021) - Brittany Moen NOMINATING/PLACEMENT CHAIR (2020-2022)
Susan Shubmehl
SUSTAINER VICE PRESIDENT - Donna Hamilton &
Janet Burman
COMMUNITY VICE PRESIDENT (2020-2022) -
Season Seferyn
COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS CHAIR - Anna O’Neil PUBLIC POLICY CHAIR - Jessica Pease
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT VICE PRESIDENT (2020-2022) - Julia Kane MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & RECRUITMENT CO-CHAIRS - Jalyn Clifford & Heather Russell EDUCATION AND TRAINING CO-CHAIRS
Holly Scrano & Victoria Wejko COMMUNICATIONS VICE PRESIDENT (2019-2021)
Julie Palmer
PUBLIC RELATIONS CHAIR - Katina Karl SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR - Whitney Daniels THE NOTES EDITOR - Heather Ford Wallace INTERNAL WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR -
Condolences
EXTERNAL WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR -
Stephen Whisenand, son of Sustainer/Past President, Lucia Whisenand passed away on 4/13/2020
FUND DEVELOPMENT VICE PRESIDENT (2019-2021)
Edward Koolakian, husband of Sustainer, Cynthia Houck Koolakian passed away on 4/7/2020
Marisa Montreal Wright Sheryl Capozzi Marie Norkett
FUND DEVELOPMENT CHAIR - Jen Baker HOLIDAY SHOPPES CO-CHAIRS -
Melissa de Jesus & Courtney Jones NOMINATING ADVISORS
Rachel Ford Ciotti, Jenny Jackson Donahoe, Jessica Murray 2020-2022: Rea Carver, Casey Duffy 2019-2021:
The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 13
COMMUNICATIONS Although the Junior League sponsored volunteer opportunities have been suspended because of the Coronavirus members of the Communications Council have still been hard at work giving back to their communities. Jenna Webb – PR Chair When all of this started in mid-March, one of my colleagues asked if anyone in the office wanted to pool together some funds to provide lunches from small, local restaurants to “front line” workers, non- profits, etc. It started with a handful of us in the office, but as word spread, friends, family, and other community members have joined us! We love the idea that each lunch helps a small business AND those who deserve a pick-me-up. To date, we’ve provided lunches in Oneida and Herkimer Counties to urgent care facilities, a non-profit grocer, a local emergency room, hospital maintenance, shelters, a pharmacy, and a non-profit agency that provides services to those with differing abilities and is making masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This week,(our 9 th ) lunch will be delivered to a small assisted living facility, and we’ll have provided 235 lunches and spent close to $2,500 at local restaurants. It feels great to do good things when bad things happen! Heather Ford Wallace – NOTES Editor I have been making good use of all the leftover fabric from my BaileyBags purse business to make cloth face masks. To date, I have made over 700 adult and kid’s masks and orders keep coming in! I have shipped masks all over the country and even to England. Linzy Frank -PR Committee Member #SpreadSunshineinCNY was created in order to give back to local restaurants and people who could use some sunshine and positivity in their lives. Two names are drawn three days a week from a pool of people that have been nominated by followers of The Agency of CNY on Facebook. The bags include a few Covid goodies (TP, lotion, etc), a $50 gift card to restaurants that have partnered with us, and a box of donuts. It has been incredibly rewarding to see how little acts of kindness spread so much joy. The Communications Council is also still at work on Junior League related projects like the email blasts, social media posts, and press releases that are part of our day to day League activities. We hope that you still feel connected to the League even though we’ve had to spend this time apart. 14 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020
Julie Palmer
Communications VP
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE Public Policy Committee has been hard at work through quarantine. We have been working with the National Network for Youth coalition to advocate for a streamlined process for independent youth to receive their stimulus checks. We are still working on our advocacy efforts for the Homeless Child and Youth Act and the Runaway Youth Act but we have taken a slight detour to help more pressing needs of that community and have been attempting to get the funding added to the various stimulus packages going through Congress. As before this would not need additional funding, the money is available in the HUD grant system and there are funds that go unused every year because of the current definition of at risk homeless that HUD uses. We appreciate everyone’s efforts and will continue to keep everyone up to date with ways to help through the Facebook members page and e-blasts when able.
Jessica Pease
Public Policy Chair
WE NEED YOUR VOTE! Due to CV19 and the Annual Meeting and June GMM being virtual we need you to vote by mail for the 2020 Holiday Shoppes requirements. Please fill in your vote and mail to: The Junior League of Syracuse 431 E Fayette Street Suite 225 Syracuse, NY 13202
2020 HOLIDAY SHOPPES REQUIREMENTS PROPOSED 2020 HS REQUIREMENTS: 1) All active and associate members are required to work at least one five hour shift. The five hour shift may be divided into two two-and-a-half-hour shifts. If you are not able to meet the requirements of shifts prior approval is needed. 2) Members are required to sell at least five tickets at a value, exclusive to members, of $5.00 per ticket.
YES
NO The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020 | 15
431 E Fayette St ¥ Suite 225 ¥ Syracuse, NY 13202 OFFICE: 315.423.9773 ¥ FAX: 315.471.1464 office@jlsyracuse.org ¥ JLSyracuse.org
Get Social With Us!
Visit JLSyracuse.org for direct links.
Jeanne Jackson and Wendy Carl- Isome Sustainer VPs
MISSION: The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. (JLS) is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. VISION: The JLS will be an organization of diverse women committed to enriching the quality of life for women, children and their families in the Central New York community. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT: The JLS welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities. 16 | The Junior League of Syracuse, Inc. • The NOTES • Summer 2020