Interaction, Volume 24, 2017-2018

ANNUAL ISSUE 2017-2018

VOLUME XXIV

WOMEN BUILDING BET T ER COM MUNIT IES. T HAT ’S T HE JUNIOR LE AGUE .

LEADERSHIP WEEK • HOLIDAY HOUSE • DOWNTOWN DASH • NIGHTINGALES

Sabrina N. Lewellen reminds us to celebrate 96 years of “Women saying YES”

Ap

ublication of the

Junior League of Little Rock

When the community works together, the community works A successful community depends on its people to live and grow. The more informed and innovative they are, the more they can discover new ways to meet their common goals.

Bank of America supports the Junior League of Little Rock for creating the kind of environment where people work together in a community that becomes stronger day by day.

Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local Life’s better when we’re connected®

©2017 Bank of America Corporation | SPN-128-AD | ARMWTPSR

CONTENTS A publication of the Junior League of Little Rock, Inc. Volume XXIV, Annual Issue 2017-2018

Editor-in-Chief: Mary DeLoney Logan Staff Writers: Kara Wilkins and Maegan Clark Contributing Writers: Kenya Eddings, Mandy Ellis Keller, Monica Jarrell, Rhonna Wade

10 18

Staff Photographer: Sondra McGee Advertising Manager: Michelle Edrington

2016-2017 Board of Directors President: Sabrina N. Lewellen President-Elect: Kimberly Logue Community Vice President: Whitney Homan Membership Vice President: Deanna Ray

20

Marketing Vice President: Patty Opitz Administrative Vice President: Dana Coburn Treasurer-Elect: Kristen Bextermueller

By The Numbers The Goodness of Giving

6

Presidential Q&A Sabrina N. Lewellen

8

95th Anniversary A Cause for Celebration

10

Nonprofit Board Institute Fact Sheet

13

Boosters & Big Rigs Provides Wellness Exams to Community

14

16

Features

Nominating Director: Vontifany Smith Training Director: Allison Drennon Sustainer Advisor: Wendy Saer

Mission: The Junior League of Little Rock 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.

Junior League of Little Rock 401 S. Scott St. Little Rock, AR 72201 501-375-JLLR www.jllr.org

5

In the Kitchen Stuffed Mushrooms

Treasurer: Natalie Hairston

Interaction is published annually by the Junior League of Little Rock. All rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission, except by other Junior League publications, is prohibited.

Interaction Staff

Little Rock Eats

Development Vice President: Maradyth McKenzie

Community Impact: The Junior League of Little Rock improves our community by assessing community needs, developing solutions and training civic leaders.

These efforts, concentrated within the following areas of impact, give direction to our organization: school preparedness and nutrition and wellness.

4

Impact

Interaction Staff Art Director: Amy Vaughn

Editor’s Note

22 24

Learning to Lead 2nd Annual Leadership Week Provides Opportunities for Growth in Personal League Journeys

18

Holiday House Central Arkansas' Premier Holiday Shopping Experience

20

Downtown Dash 5th Annual Race Sees Record Number of Participants

22

Nightingales Members Going Above and Beyond the Call of Service

24

Who’s Who Member Profiles

26

Know Your Board

28

Moneywise Financial Standing

31

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PHOTO BY: STER LING IM AGEWOR KS

EDITOR’S NOTE

I joined Junior League of Little Rock shortly after moving here in 2013 looking for a community to immerse myself in. I thought I would find volunteer opportunities and a chance to make social connections with like-minded women.

Of course, I’ve found those opportunities, but what I also found is a powerful force of women who have contributed endless hours of their time and effort to shape and mold the Little Rock community for nearly a century.

This issue focuses on just that, the impact the women of JLLR have had on the Little Rock community. This past year was a year for celebration. We spent a week celebrating our 95th anniversary that ended in a visit from the Association of Junior Leagues International President and the announcement of a new annual giving campaign, The 1922 Society. Both of our major fundraisers, Downtown Dash and Holiday House, saw exciting growth. And, we’ve made major contributions to the community through our featured projects of the Nonprofit Board Institute, Boosters and Big Rigs, and Nightingales.

Personally, this past year I experienced opportunities to learn about every facet of the League through serving on the Publications Committee. I’ve attended over 40 League events, spent countless hours communicating with every League Committee, and had the opportunity to meet and share the stories of several League women. I’m incredibly proud to play a small part within this great powerhouse of women and I am thrilled to share these stories with you.

All my best,

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EDITORIAL TEAM

Staff Writer

KARA WILKINS

Staff Writer

MAEGAN CLARK

Staff Photographer

SONDRA McGEE

Contributing Writer

MANDY KELLER

Contributing Writer

RHONNA WADE

your heart, our specialists

Contributing Writer

KENYA EDDINGS

Contributing Writer

MONICA JARRELL

Advertising Manager

MICHELLE EDDINGTON

Find a cardiologist near you by visiting chistvincent.com 2017-2018 | Volume XXIV | Interaction | 5

IMPACT | BY THE NUMBERS

The Goodness of Giving An overview of the impact JLLR made this past year

Number of Nonprofit boards a JLLR member has a seat on

6 3,528

Number of Nonprofit tenants served by Nonprofit Institute

Number of people that came to Boosters and Big Rigs

600

4 Volunteers in Public Schools Board Schools

$401,333 Raised at Holiday House in 2016

Number of Runners in Downtown Dash

95

Arkansas Children's Hospital Aux Board Seat

Number of founding members for 1922 society

Arkansas Arts Center Board Seat

3,400 Number of students receiving school supplies by Stuff the Bus

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1,248 Number of hours volunteered through Community Focus Shifts

Boys and Girls Club Board Seat

BY THE NUMBERS | IMPACT

The number of students served by L.Y.F.E

200

25

Number of families served by Nightingales

50

Number of 2017 Nonprofit Board Institute participants

4,000 2017 Goal

for number of books donated to Little Readers Rock reading day events

850 Number of Books donated to Little Readers Rock in 2017

We’re proud to sponsor the 2017

Holiday House!

Little Rock’s dining and craft food and beverage scene is on the rise. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner for two, using our Locally Labeled Passport program to sample our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits or savoring any of the amazing products our artisanal food producers are making, there’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock.

IN GREATER LITTLE ROCK

Tour and tasting at Lost Forty Brewery > To see more, visit Littlerock.com

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IMPACT | PRESIDENTIAL Q&A

SABRINA N. LEWELLEN When Sabrina NeKay E. Lewellen became President of the Junior League of Little Rock, she had been saying “Yes!” for 11 years, 11 months, and 11 days. But taking on new opportunities is nothing new to this Jonesboro native.

The youngest of five siblings, Sabrina is a graduate of Florida A&M University and received her J.D. from Vanderbilt University in 2002. She joined the Arkansas Senate in 2003 and currently serves as Deputy Director and Assistant Secretary of the Senate.

Learn more about why she continues to say “Yes” to the League and hopes to inspire others to join her.

by

K AR A W I LK I N S

FUN FACTS ABOUT SABRINA: BEST GIFT YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? For my 40th birthday, the Board gave me our group picture with 40 things they love about me written around the picture. It was so thoughtful and meaningful.

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MANICURE OR PEDICURE? Pedicure.

WORST FOOD EVER EATEN? Although I've tried to eat them many times, pretzels literally make me sick.

CAFFEINATED DRINK OF CHOICE? A Coke from McDonald’s or Mountain Dew from Tacos 4 Life.

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FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL? My favorite places include any of the New England states and Portland, Oregon.

Each location makes me thankful for clean water, air and beautiful foliage.

HIDDEN TALENT? I’ve been a pianist for 24 years.

IF YOU COULD HAVE LUNCH WITH ANY WOMAN, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Former First Lady Michelle Obama for her strength and style; Jean Kennedy Smith, last surviving child of Joe and Rose Kennedy for her resilience; anthropologist, educator and museum director Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole for her intelligence.

PRESIDENTIAL Q&A | IMPACT

What influenced your decision to join the Junior League of Little Rock?

I returned to Arkansas after graduating from law school.

I was looking for opportunities to meet and connect with other women in the community and it was women I met through my job that led me to the Junior League of Little Rock.

PHOTO BY: JOEL’S PHOTOGR A PH Y

What has been your favorite placement in the League?

It’s a tie between Nominating Committee and Nightingales.

During my time on Nominating, I learned a lot from then Chair Kristen Minton and Chair-Elect Jamie Huffman Jones on what it means to identify leadership.

I actually tried for three years to serve on Nightingales. Once I was placed, I was asked to be Chair-Elect. Less than five weeks later, I was moved up to Chair. I love Nightingales and respect the purpose of the project. It is very special and takes an organized person to lead it.

How do you maintain a balance between your career, your family, and your leadership role in JLLR? My career requires a lot of my investment in terms of time, energy, organization and list making. The role of President requires the same.

Where do you see the League in a few years?

The planning for our 100th anniversary is beginning for 2022-2023, which will be a celebration highlighting what the League has accomplished and our community impact.

Beyond our centennial, the League will complete its current strategic plan and consider future focus areas and strategic goals. And hopefully, in the years ahead, our members will feel revitalized and rejuvenated to continue serving our community for another 100 years.

The reality of my life is, ultimately, balance is fluid and changes every hour. I must remain flexible every day and commit to giving my best.

What advice do you have for new members?

Your theme for the year is “Women Saying Yes. ” How do you hope to see JLLR members living out that mission this year?

First, be a student of the process. Second, be sure to develop relationships with people in your class. And finally, be mission minded. Your League career will be full of mission moments that will contribute to the continued success of our organization.

"Women Saying Yes" is a two-fold charge. It asks us to reflect upon the thousands of women who have said yes to our mission and our community for the last 96 years.

Additionally, I am asking our membership to own their personal “Yes” and examine the reasons that lead them to say “Yes” in various areas of their lives.

If you could describe the Junior League of Little Rock in one word, what would it be?

Powerhouse – the Junior League of Little Rock is an organization of women of great influence, inspiration, energy, ability, ideas and community impact.

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IMPACT | 95TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

A Cause for Celebration JLLR recognized for 95 years of service by

M A N DY E LL I S K E LLE R

Tuesday, March 29, 2017 marked a monumental day in Junior League of Little Rock history as JLLR celebrated its 95th anniversary.

The JLLR Board of Directors and Advocacy Committee, led by Chair Victoria Jones and Chair-Elect Dr. Sarah Hays, met legislators at the Arkansas State Capitol. Senators Will Bond, Joyce Elliott, Linda Chesterfield, and Jeremy Hutchinson presented a Senate Resolution to all in attendance. The resolution celebrated the impact JLLR has made on the Little Rock community, namely, “the formation of the Arkansas Arts Center, Riverfest, the Museum of Discovery, Potluck Food Rescue, Gaines House, the Parent Center at the Centers for Youth and Families, [and] Volunteers in Public Schools.”

The senate also praised JLLR’s work in creating the Nonprofit Center that offers below-market housing for nonprofit organizations in order to support the growth of their respective missions to effect change throughout Little Rock and the entire state. Finally, the senators highlighted JLLR’s “community projects and advocacy efforts on creating meaningful change to improve the school preparedness and health and wellness of Arkansas children, including joining the Arkansas Grade-Level Reading Campaign to hold literacy events for children in Arkansas Head Start programs, supporting access to quality preschool education, and promoting better nutrition and consistent physical activity”.

That evening, JLLR members of all levels mingled in the ballroom to celebrate. Each table held a unique centerpiece which displayed photos of members engaging in effective change for the Little Rock community over the years. President Amanda Richardson took the stage to welcome guests and to introduce Mayor Mark Stodola. Stodola proclaimed March 29 Junior League of Little Rock Day, reiterating the complimentary remarks made during the Senate Resolution.

Next, the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. President Carol Scott spoke of her time spent in Little Rock, learning about all the city has to offer and JLLR’s involvement in making Little Rock a better place. She commended the League for its unwavering dedication to women and children’s health and wellness for the better part of a century and charged its members to continue their service, learning from and celebrating one another while seeking new opportunities to lead in Little Rock.

The final speaker, Sustainer Ellon Cockrill, presented an exciting new way for members to support the League’s vision through support of the newly founded 1922 Society.

Cockrill then brought JLLR member Stacy Wilson and her daughter, Madelyn, onstage to stand beside her, representing the past, present, and future of the League — a moving visual of the multi-generational impact and leadership development our organization has provided to women for nearly a century.

To close the evening, members toasted the future of the Junior League of Little Rock, an organization made strong by the commitment and service of women who dare to dream and dare to say yes to new opportunities to serve others.

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| Volume XXIV | 2017-2018

This year’s event included a turnout of over 1,400 attendees! We were able to complete 418 dental screenings, 72 hearing screenings, and 43 adult screenings. We also provided 55 physicals, gave school supplies to 500+ children, and gave away 20 bikes.

Thank you to our Truck Sponsors USPS Blue Line Rental LRPD SWAT team Sheriff

Thank you to our Vendors

Arkansas Trucking Association Road Team

MEMS

Razorback Concrete

Kids Cook

ACH CVICU

Maverick Transportation

311 Recycling

Buddy & Dena Rhoads

UALR Speech & Hearing

Ag-Pro of Central Arkansas

LR Fire Department

Recycle Bikes

American Heart Association

Lucky’s Towing

806th Engineer Company

10 Fitness

Future Smiles

Union Pacific

Fresh2You

AR Kids

UAMS APRN Faculty and Students

Redstone Construction

Thank You Partners!

2017

Thank You Sponsors!

2017-2018 | Volume XXIV | Interaction | 11

YOUR S H O P, D I N E , E S C A P E . . .

PROUD SPONSOR

Holiday House

w w w. C h e n a l S h o p p i n g. co m

TO

NONPROFIT BOARD INSTITUTE | IMPACT

JLLR Nonprofit Board Institute Fact Sheet Junior League of Little Rock program prepares community leaders for effective board service by

M AE G A N C L AR K

ABOUT

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Nonprofit Board Institute educates individuals on how to be effective nonprofit board members through a five-week evening training course during the month of September, culminating in a graduation in early October.

Fall 2015 graduate Tanya James was chosen to participate in the 2016 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Taste of The Finest, and credited her experience attending the Nonprofit Board Institute as helping her raise thousands of dollars for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

All sessions are held on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Junior League of Little Rock Building located at 401 South Scott Street in downtown Little Rock.

Participants had the option to register for the full 5-week training session, or for an individual class specific to a topic of their choosing.

Each session was full with 50 participants and a waiting list to attend.

The training focus is on developing leaders for the nonprofit sector through education on all areas of board service.

Sessions are led by area experts familiar with the nonprofit sector and nonprofit board leadership.

Registration was open in August to anyone interested in learning about the role of a board member in nonprofit organizations, from veterans of board service to the newly interested.

In addition to providing training opportunities, the Nonprofit Board Institute also provides yearly alumni gatherings to build and maintain networking opportunities for graduates and local nonprofit organizations.

PAST SPEAKERS HAVE INCLUDED

In 2016 and 2017, Arvest Bank partnered with the Nonprofit Board Institute and paid for students to attend the Fall training course.

» Paul Leopoulos Executive Director Thea Foundation

Groups who have attended the Graduation Mixer for the Nonprofit Board Institute graduates have included: • Women’s Foundation of Arkansas • Humane Society of Pulaski County • The Family Home • Senior Citizens Active Today • Family Promise of Pulaski County • ALS Association of Arkansas

» Nikki Parnell CFO Museum of Discovery

Course attendees have represented local organizations including: • Arvest Bank • Women and Children First • Arkansas Hospice • Arkansas Youth Leadership Initiative • Arkansas Natural Resources Commission • Delta Dental • Pulaski County Youth Services • Bank of the Ozarks • Opera in the Rock (also a JLLR Nonprofit Center Group) • Stephens, Inc. • Direct Action Resource Center • Women & Children First Peacekeepers • Clinton School of Public Service • Goodwill Industries of Arkansas • Recycle Bikes for Kids • Conway Symphony Orchestra • Partners in Knowledge

»

» Paul Parnell Partner Rose Law Firm » Joyce Taylor Executive Director American Heart Association Anna Beth Gorman Executive Director Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (Past-Chair of the NPBI 2015)

» Georgia Mjartan Executive Director Our House » Sonya Murphy Private Banking VP Arvest Bank »

Kerri Sernel Director of Development and Major Gifts Arkansas Advocates for Children & Families

» Jessica DeLoach Political Analyst & Strategist

2017 COURSE SESSIONS AND FEATURED SPEAKERS Board Basics » Christina Littlejohn Executive Director Arkansas Symphony Orchestra

Finances and Fundraising » Chris Johnson Principal Financial Officer Dillard’s

Working with Volunteers » Cynthia Ramey Executive Director Family Promise of Pulaski County

Marketing and Social Media » Maegan Clark Social Media Manager Heifer International

Graduation Ceremony » Scott McLean Executive Director Pathway to Freedom

» Sarah Roberson Executive Director City Year Little Rock

» Steve Biernacki Director of Restore Operations Habitat for Humanity

» Gina Newman Executive Director Family Home of Little Rock

» Gabe Holmstrom Executive Director Downtown Little Rock Partnership

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IMPACT | BOOSTERS & BIG RIGS

Boosters and Big Rigs Provides Free Wellness Exams to Little Rock Community JLLR members directly serve children and families in preparation for the new school year by

K AR A W I LK I N S

Supplies, safety and sirens were the main attractions at the Junior League of Little Rock’s Annual Boosters and Big Rigs event. For the second year in a row, the League partnered with Children’s International to host the family-friendly, free community event on the campus of UA Little Rock. More than 1,439 children and families attended.

Members serving on the Boosters and Big Rigs Committee decided to place a heavy emphasis on health and wellness at this year’s event, resulting in more than 418 dental screenings and nearly 55 physicals being provided. Children’s International handed out school supplies to nearly 500 children and the Boosters and Big Rigs Committee helped provide an additional 500 backpacks. Lunch was provided for each Boosters and Big Rigs participant.

Kids Cook Arkansas held a cooking class to help teach families about the importance of healthy meals. The Fresh2You mobile farmers market, which seeks to increase access to fresh produce

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| Volume XXIV | 2017-2018

and nutrition education in underserved communities, was also in attendance. Children were able to complete a MEMS certified bike safety course to become eligible to win one of 20 recycled bikes, donated by Bikes for Kids.

Over 25 “Big Rigs” came and allowed kids to sit in their cars and trains, including the United States Postal Service, Blue Line Rental, Little Rock Police Department SWAT team, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, Arkansas Trucking Association Road Team, Ag-Pro of Central Arkansas, Redstone Construction, MEMS, Maverick Transportation, Little Rock Fire Department, Lucky's Towing, Union Pacific Railroad Company, Razorback Concrete, City of Little Rock 311 Recycling, and the United States Army Reserve 806th Engineer Company.

Other vendors included Buddy & Dena Rhoads, 10 Fitness, AR Kids, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, UA Little Rock Speech and Hearing Clinic, American Heart Association, and Wakefield’s Elementary Future Smiles Dental Clinic.

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LITTLE ROCK EATS | IN THE KITCHEN

Small Bites, Big Flavor Serve up one of our Cookbook Committee’s favorite treats at your next gathering

Stuffed Mushrooms

from page 28 of Big Taste of Little Rock INGREDIENTS:

RECIPE:

3 hot Italian sausages

Saute the sausage with the

Brush

(casings removed and sausage crumbled)

oregano in a large heavy skillet

mushroom cap with the wine.

1½ teaspoons dried oregano

over medium heat, stirring

Spoon 1 tablespoon of the

2 small garlic cloves, minced

until the sausage is brown and

sausage mixture into each

½ cup (2 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

crumbly. Add the garlic and

mushroom cap and sprinkle

saute for 1 minute. Remove

with ½ cup Parmesan cheese.

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

to a large bowl with a slotted

Arrange filling side up in a

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

spoon and cool. Stir in ½

10x15-inch

Parmesan cheese, the cream

brushed with olive oil. Bake at

cheese

Salt and Pepper to taste 1 egg yolk 24 large mushroom caps /3 cup dry white wine

1

½ cup (2 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

the

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of

baking

each

dish

Worcestershire

350 degrees for 25 minutes or

sauce. Season with salt and

until the mushroom caps are

pepper. Add the egg yolk

tender and the filling is brown.

and mix well.

Serve immediately or store in

and

the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

Serves 24

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cavity

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

would like to say

THANK

YOU to our 2017 sponsors

TABLE SPONSORS

THANK YOU TO OUR 2017 SPONSORS FOR MAKING DOWNTOWN DASH A HUGE SUCCESS! To find out more about the 2018 Downtown Dash, visit jllr.org/downtown-dash

MARATHONER

SPRINTER Allstate- Jennifer King Agency, Inc. Bancorp South Dassault Falcon Jet Pleasant Ridge Town Center Smiley Technologies, Inc. Southwest Power Pool Coke Colonial Wine and Spirits Hiland Dairy Premium Refreshment Service Fleet Feet Sports

MILE MARKER 2016-2017 JLLR BOARD MEDAL Cayenne Marketing JOGGER Morgan Stanley Moses Tucker Real Estate, Inc. Lost Forty Brewing 106.7 The Ride Rock City Running

WALKER Cross, Gunter, Witherspoon, & Galchus, P.C. Healthy Chew, LLC. The Little Chick The Little Rock Racquet Club / Little Rock Athletic Club L’Oreal USA Playtime Pizza Bylites Mystery Mansion Escape Room & Events Sponsorship Level- n/a City of Little Rock

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LEARNING TO LEAD 2nd Annual Leadership Week Provides Opportunities for Growth in Personal League Journeys by

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M ARY D E LO N E Y LO G A N A N D K AR A W I LK I NS

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This August, members were invited to kick off the new League year with the 2nd Annual JLLR Leadership Week. This exciting opportunity offered a variety of ways to connect with fellow members, learn more about the JLLR mission, and strengthen leadership skills.

The first event consisted of small group meetings in member’s homes where discussions focused around why members joined the League, and how the League can engage members.

The second event was all about Nightingales. Attendees participated in a presentation from the Nightingales Committee about what they do and afterwards took a tour of Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

“Leadership Journeys” was the focus of the third event of Leadership Week. Members of the current Board of Directors hosted round-table discussions of open conversation for 30-minutes about their leadership journeys and what it’s like to serve on the Board. Afterward, the group joined for a question and answer session with all attendees.

Top to bottom: Board members pose following leadership roundtable discussions; Members attending the Nightingales leadership night pose on the helipad at Arkansas Children's Hospital; Members attending meetings in members home get together for photos.

Leadership Week: August 21–26, 2017 Monday Small Group Meetings in Active Member Homes Tuesday Community Learning Journey to Nightingales at Arkansas Children’s Hospital Thursday Leadership Learning Journey Discussions Saturday Leadership Development Workshop with Blake Woolsey, Executive Vice President at Mitchell Communications Group in Fayetteville

As Leadership Week drew to a close, members were invited to attend a special leadership training with Blake Woolsey, Executive Vice President at Mitchell Communications Group and current Sustainer and past President of the Junior League of Northwest Arkansas. The half day training focused on understanding the power in saying yes. Woolsey led the 20+ attendees through a series of exercises that allowed members to share their candid thoughts on how we can grow as a League as we move towards our 100th year of service. Ideas included extending Leadership Week into a yearlong training opportunity for members and creating an optional service project for Sustainers and Actives to complete together.

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HOLIDAY HOUSE Central Arkansas’ Premier Holiday Shopping Experience M AE G A N C L AR K

Mark your calendars for the shopping spectacular event of the season! This year’s Holiday House will be November 8-11, 2017 at the Statehouse Convention Center.

Approximately 14,000 shoppers visit the event each year to start the holiday season. For 27 years, Holiday House has collectively raised over $5 million to fund JLLR community priority areas and it generates more than 60 percent of all funding for the JLLR. In 2016, Holiday House raised over $400,000.

New to Holiday House this year is an event on Friday night called Jingle and Mingle. This event will have beer tastings and full pours from Lost Forty and catering from Whole Hog. To liven up the party there will be live music, pop-up shops, and a casual setting to bring along the men in your life.

Curious about the other events happening? Preview Party will be back, where you can buy a raffle ticket to win a Louis Vuitton Weekend Bag from Braswell & Sons. A Very Merry Morning private shopping party will provide for a crowd free shopping experience, brunch included.

If you’d rather have a ladies night, check out the Tinsel and Tapas event. On Saturday, bring the whole family along for Cookie Decorating with Santa. Tickets can be purchased for one day, or three. ‘Tis the season for Holiday House!

The JLLR thanks Arkansas Children's Hospital for their continued support as Presenting Sponsor of Holiday House.

Location

Statehouse Convention Center 101 E. Markham St., Little Rock

General Shopping: Shop ‘Til You Drop Tickets $10 one day pass / $20 three day pass Thursday | November 9 | noon to 10 p.m.

Friday | November 10 | 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday | November 11 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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| Volume XXIV | 2017-2018

Special Events

Preview Party: ‘Twas the Night Before Wednesday, November 8th | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Hostesses: Mary Jane Briggs & Jan Murphy Tickets $45 each Exclusive first look at Holiday House with hors d’oeuvres, complimentary beer and wine, live entertainment, and a silent auction.

Private Shopping: A Very Merry Morning Thursday, November 9th | 9 a.m. to noon Hostesses: Jill Dunlap, Leigh Ann Raper, Ginger Blackmon, & Sydney Blackmon Tickets $30 each Enjoy private shopping and a delicious brunch while perusing all the merchants without the crowds.

Ladies Night: Tinsel & Tapas Thursday, November 9th | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Hostesses: Nikki Hite, Gina Rouse, Benecia Moore, Nichole Williams, & Danyelle Walker Tickets $30 each Enjoy a shopping night out with your girlfriends while indulging in Tex-Mex and sipping on complimentary beer and wine.

Jingle & Mingle Presented by Lumber 1 Friday, November 10th 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Hostesses: Emily Bowman, Angie Johnson, & Ashley Parker Tickets: $30 each The perfect night out for a date or group of friends. Lost Forty beers will be on tap, along with Whole Hog BBQ, a local dessert bar, and live music.

Cookie Decorating with Santa Presented by The Toggery Saturday, November 11th • 9 a.m. - noon Tickets $10 per child, adults are free Dress up your little ones in their holiday wear and get your photo taken with Santa Claus. Enjoy music and cookie decorating; a perfect start to the holiday season.

Luxury Raffle Items » Jones and Son - Earrings » Braswell & Sons - Louis Vuitton Weekend Bag » Townley Pool & Spa - Big Green Egg with Stand $10/ticket with a limited number sold.

Tickets will also be sold during general shopping.

ILLUSTR ATION BY: A M Y VAUGHN

by

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DOWNTOWN DASH CELEBRATING SERVICE SUPERHEROES 5th Annual Race Sees Record Number of Participants by

K AR A W I LK I N S

Although we’re months away from the 5th annual Downtown Dash, the Committee is already hard at work preparing for next year’s race.

“One of our goals this year is to provide reminders of the race throughout the year, instead of focusing on it towards the end of the League year,” Elizabeth Griffin, 2017-2018 Downtown Dash Chair said.

Next year’s race, scheduled for Saturday, April 7th, 2018, will incorporate a few new ideas to help bring Downtown Dash to the forefront of the racing scene. The theme is ‘Service Superheroes’ and the Committee will focus on making the connection between how proceeds for the race are used to support the League’s community service programs, such as Boosters and Big Rigs, Little Readers Rock, and KOTA Camp.

“It is important that we help explain what the proceeds for Downtown Dash are used for and that the League is really focused

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| Volume XXIV | 2017-2018

on being ‘Service Superheroes’ for the community,” Griffin said.

“Our hope is that this will help increase donor support and runners will know that they are actually contributing to a good cause, not just the cost of a race.”

Superhero themed costumes will be encouraged for both adult and child participants in an effort to help make Downtown Dash more family friendly and kids will receive their own superhero cape as part of their race registration.

Downtown Dash hopes to build upon the success of the 2017 race, which had record participation. In addition to the scenic course that runs through downtown Little Rock, participants can once again look forward to an indoors VIP area, which will include a catered brunch buffet. There will also be a family fun area which will include a bounce area, games, and other kid friendly activities.

League members are required to volunteer on race day, and the Committee would also like to encourage everyone to help with advertising for the event.

“Because this is an event that helps support programs that we all love to participate in throughout the year, we’re asking Active and Sustaining Members to reach out to the Downtown Dash Committee with any relationships they may have with potential donors.” — Elizabeth Griffin, 2017-2018 Downtown Dash Chair Opposite page, left to right: 1. Downtown Dash participants begin the 2017 race. 2. Women's 5K winners pose with League member Jillian Janik after receiving their medals. 3. A child colors their Downtown Dash Jr. t-shirt. 4. League members Amanda Richardson, Jessie Smith, and Sabrina Lewellen pose with a runner.

5. Kids take off for their 1k Downtown Dash Jr. trek.

10K/5K Registration $35/$25 before April 7th $40/$30 on race day.

Downtown Dash Jr. Registration $10 before April 7th $15 on race day.

Registration is available online at

www.jllr.org/downtown-dash

through 11:59 PM CST April 6, 2018.

Onsite registration will be available prior to the start of the race. For more information about the race, visit our website or contact Junior League of Little Rock at 501-375-5557. Downtown Dash is handicap and stroller accessible and pet friendly.

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ILLUSTR ATION BY: A M Y VAUGHN

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| Volume XXIV | 2017-2018

An Update on Nightingales Members going above and beyond the call of service.

by

S O N D R A M c GE E & M ARY D eL O N E Y L O G A N

The Nightingales Committee is dedicated to serving families with a way to have some fun and a meal while they're caring for loved ones in the hospital.

Junior League volunteers plan and facilitate weekly activity nights and special event dinners for parents and families of Arkansas Children’s Hospital patients, and patients and parents residing at the UAMS Family Home.

JLLR members also provide much-needed diversionary activities such as games, crafts, relaxation programs, and snacks. Prizes they provide include small, educational toys and puzzles along with seasonal items such as socks and gloves.

Currently, the Nightingales Committee personally provides all prizes, snacks, and refreshments without the help of donors.

On Tuesday, September 12, Nightingales provided a Chick-fil-A meal to about 150-200 people at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. The Committee serves Thanksgiving meals to more than 200 people and delivers treats to the waiting areas during the holidays. They will serve another meal in the Spring.

These activities and other special events help families cope with a long-term hospital stay.

The Committee just got up and running for the 2017/2018 year under the leadership of Hedi Hemenway and Susi Taylor. The group welcomes donations of healthy snacks, drinks, prizes, and help with the large meals.

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WHO’S WHO | MEMBER PROFILES

Saying Yes to Service Members of the Year Impact Little Rock Community by

K E N YA L . E D D I N G S , R H O N NA WAD E , & M AE G A N C L AR K

Sustainer of the Year: Vicki Saviers

On May 3rd 2017, the Junior League of Little Rock hosted its annual Sustainer Luncheon where Vicki Saviers was named the 2017 Sustainer of the Year.

As she reflects on her many years of service to the League, Vicki counts her service on Potluck Food Rescue among her most memorable. “I was Chair of the Potluck Committee and Chair of the Potluck Board in its second year of existence, and then stayed on the Board for several years after my placement ended. We worked through many difficult issues in those early years to establish Potluck as an effective organization, and I am proud of the support that the JLLR provided and the opportunity that I had to be a part of such an amazing project.”

A graduate from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville earning a degree in History and Political Science, Vicki is the founder of the Public Education Foundation of Little Rock and served as its first Executive Director. She is also a past member of the Arkansas State Board of Education, serving between 2008-2016 and appointed

by Governor Mike Beebe.

“I said yes to the JLLR by accepting placements that challenged my abilities and forced me to learn new things. I sincerely hope that the women of the JLLR will say yes this year by taking risks and striving to be impactful. Our city needs you!”

A dedicated family woman, Vicki is married to Mark, a mom and mother-in-law to Marshall (Beth) and John Mark (Melissa), and a grandmother to the, “cutest, smartest children in the world: Mary Collins, David, Russell, and Sam.”

CHEERS TO OUR NEW ACTIVES, WELCOMED MAY 2017 Juliette Ault Blair Baskin LaSha Boston Alexandria Boyd Tracey Bradley-Simmons Sharre Brooks

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Krystle Browning Hannah Bryant Callie Bullock Heather Burzlaff Rachel Childers Marisha Collins

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Samantha Cook Staci Croom-Raley Kirstin Davis Alexandra DeJohn Mary Derby Ashley Dippel

Jessica Dirden Rebecca Duty Yolanda Eason Michelle Eddington Kristin Evans Dan’Ketta Farris

Jill Floyd Nicole French Emily Gassman Nancy Golden Ashley Haggard Hannah Hale

MEMBER PROFILES | WHO’S WHO New Member of the Year: Callie Bullock Callie Bullock was inspired to join Junior League by her mother and grandmother, as they were both involved in the Magnolia Junior Charity League. Callie says her mom has been a major influence in everything she does, but especially in the Junior League.

PHOTO BY: JOEL’S PHOTOGR A PH Y

Callie has a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from University of Central Arkansas and is the Fabrication Manager at Designer Effects, a to-the-trade fabric showroom.

She is also on the Education Committee for the Window Coverings Association of America.

Callie says her most memorable experience of her New Member year was when her class hosted a children’s Christmas event for families working with The CALL where she served as co-chair for the decorations Committee.

“Coming from our New Member year, we were dipping our toes in a little bit of everything.

Now that I have been placed, I am looking forward to fulfilling those specific roles and focusing all of my attention on my responsibilities. Commitment is something I hold very dear.” Callie is now serving two placements, one for the Placement Committee where she is Computer Coordinator-Elect and one for Downtown Dash, serving as a Logistics Committee Member.

Active of the Year: Alicia Wyles Alicia Wyles joined JLLR in 2011 and has served all across the League ever since.

This past year was her first year to serve as a Committee Chair for Arrangements.

She says it gave her a different perspective on the Junior League. This past year Alicia also served as a member of the Administrative Council where she said she “learned a lot about how the League operated during the year. I was involved in the 95th Anniversary Celebration and getting to see the impact this organization has made on Little Rock for 95 years made me even more proud to be a member.”

PHOTO BY: A M Y HOUGH

Alicia has a B.S. in Business Administration and B.S. in Computer Information Systems from Arkansas Tech University and has a career as a Human Resources Specialist for the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service.

Alicia is married to her husband, Eric, of 17 years and they have two children.

She maintains a balance between her career, family, and roles within the JLLR because she and her husband are a good team. “We both take on responsibilities with our kids and at home. Also, I'm in a position at work that allows me to be flexible with my time, which has allowed me to take on more opportunities in the League.”

Meagan Hood Adrian Howell Vianca Jordan Erica Lambert Sherri Lee Simone Lewis

Nichole McClinton Danae McGee Morgan McKinney Monica Miller Audrey Nettles Shameika Osborne

Reesy Ravnik Mary Richmond Kayla Rogers Anne Rush Leaundra Sanders Allison Schrader

Natesea Stephens Latrecia Stubbs Alex Talley LaTasha Taylor Adrian Thompson Juana Tolbert

Amber White Valerie White Patricia Williams Stephanie Wise

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PHOTOS BY: LIZZ Y YATES PHOTOGR A PH Y

WHO’S WHO | MEET THE BOARD Sabrina N. Lewellen President Sabrina has served the Junior League for the past 12 years. She is a native of Jonesboro, holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture/Food Science with a Minor in Environmental Science from Florida A&M University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Vanderbilt Law School. Professionally, she serves the citizens of Arkansas as the Deputy Director and Assistant Secretary of the Arkansas Senate.

“Women Saying Yes” is her motto for the Junior League of Little Rock during her presidential tenure.

Kimberly Logue President-Elect Kimberly joined JLLR in 2009. She finished high school in Batesville and attended the University of Central Arkansas.

Afterwards she earned her law degree at Pace University School of Law in New York. Professionally she is in private practice at PPGMR Law in Little Rock where she focuses on environmental and appellate law. She says by saying “Yes” to the many challenges that have come her way as a JLLR member she has grown in ways never anticipated.

From the Board Room Meet the “Women Saying Yes” to Leadership

Natalie Hairston Treasurer Natalie was born in Seoul, South Korea and adopted when she was three months old by a family in Little Rock. She has served Junior League of Little Rock since 2012. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas in Little Rock with a Bachelors in Business Administration.

Professionally she is a Vice President of Commercial Lending at Bank of the Ozarks.

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Dana Coburn Administrative Vice President Dana has lived in many places, but considers Arkansas home after being here 27 years. She is a graduate of Lyon College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and now works for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a project manager in the Programs and Project Management Division, Civil Works Branch. She has served JLLR for the past eight years and says she can’t imagine life without the growth she has experienced through the League.

MEET THE BOARD | WHO’S WHO Whitney Homan Community Vice President Whitney is a native of Little Rock and joined JLLR in 2013. She is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University with a degree in Speech Pathology and holds a Doctorate in Audiology from UAMS. Professionally, she is a Doctor of Audiology at the VA Hospital in North Little Rock and the student program supervisor for the VA Audiology clinics in Central Arkansas. She says her experience saying “Yes” in JLLR has led to personal growth, new friendships, and amazing memories.

Maradyth McKenzie Development Vice President

Deanna Ray Membership Vice President

Maradyth was born in Jonesboro, but split her childhood years between Little Rock and Northeast Arkansas. After graduating from Greene County Tech High in Paragould, she received a Bachelor of Arts degrees in Business/Economics and Politics from Hendrix College and a Master of Business Administration degree from UALR. After working for over a decade to strengthen local nonprofits through strategic planning, marketing, and development, she hopes to increase the financial capacity of JLLR and further its impact on the community.

Deanna joined JLLR in 2010. She’s a Little Rock native and a graduate of Baylor University with a degree in Environmental Studies and History and has a J.D. from UALR Bowen School of Law. Professionally, she is an attorney specialist for the Alcohol Beverage Control Administration. To her, “Women Saying Yes” means being willing to say yes in order to grow, learn and lead to the best of her ability.

Patty Opitz Marketing Vice President A native of Little Rock, Patty has served JLLR for the past seven years.

Professionally, she is a Senior Associate Architect at Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects, and sits on the AIA Arkansas State Board as Director and on the Women in Architecture and Diversity Committee for the state. She is also Director of the Architecture + Design Network. She says she loves the League because its about women seeing potential in other women and extending opportunities to them they never had before joining JLLR.

2017 is all about:

Women Saying "YES" to personal growth, new friendships, and amazing memories.

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PHOTOS BY: LIZZ Y YATES PHOTOGR A PH Y

WHO’S WHO | MEET THE BOARD Vontifany Smith Nominating Director

Women Saying "Yes"

is a call to leadership for the community

Vontifany is a Little Rock native and has served JLLR since 2009. She received her B.A. in Psychology from Philander Smith College, and a M.A. in Human Resource Management from Walden University.

Professionally, she is an Organizational Development Trainer for Arkansas Children’s Hospital. To her, “Women Saying Yes” means a woman has an understanding of her calling as a leader, to accept her responsibility to her community, and to challenge herself to continue to develop and grow.

Allison Drennon Training Director

Kristen Bextermueller Treasurer-Elect

Allison has served JLLR since 2011. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and after moving to Little Rock found herself wanting to make an impact in her community, family, and profession. She says JLLR has inspired her and taught her to say yes. She says “Yes” to challenges, new ideas, and to learning and growing. She also says her “Yes” is not limited to JLLR – it includes family and profession.

Kristen is a Central Arkansas Native.

She earned a B.S.B.A. in Financial Management/Investments from the University of Arkansas Fayetteville and a M.B.A. from the University of Arkansas Little Rock. Professionally, she is the Asset/Liability Modeling Manager at Bank of the Ozarks. She has served JLLR for the past five years and says she hopes to continue to develop financial literacy and transparency throughout JLLR. She intends to maintain the proper accounting for finances and strengthen financial reporting and budgeting.

Wendy Saer Sustainer Advisor to the Board Wendy is a New Orleans native, and retired as a Dental Hygienist when her family moved to Little Rock in 1981. She said “Yes” to the Junior League in 1986 and it changed the direction of her life.

She was named JLLR Sustainer of the Year in 2015. Wendy is known as “Mayor Saer” to thousands of children (and adults) who have graduated from Safety Town, a safety awareness program she brought to Little Rock over 32 years ago.

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STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION | MONEYWISE

ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents. . . . . . . $1,109,205 Contributions receivable, net. . . . . . . . $46,787 Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $180,316 Prepaid and other assets . . . . . . . . . . $36,575 Investment securities. . . . . . . . . . $1,708,606 Property and Equipment, net . . . . . $2,831,076 Total Assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,912,565

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Liabilities: Accounts Payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,663 Accrued Liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . $20,066 Deferred Revenue. . . . . . . . . . . . . $159,233 Total Liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $187,962 Net Assets: Unrestricted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,113,541 Temporarily Restricted. . . . . . . . . . $897,037 Permanently Restricted . . . . . . . . . $714,025 Total Net Assets. . . . . . . . . . . $5,724,603 Total Liabilities and Net Assets. . . $5,912,565

Junior League of Little Rock presents its statement of financial position for the period ending May 31, 2017.

It's never too late to make a difference...

The 1922 Society is Junior League of Little Rock's newest giving opportunity.

The Society funding benefits the community and all areas of the JLLR. With it, the extraordinary opportunities, projects, facilities and volunteer programs will continue to be preserved.

To sign up today: www.jllr.org/donate Contact Christy Copeland for more information 501.375.5557 2017-2018 | Volume XXIV | Interaction | 31

Spread holiday cheer to patients at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

Place your holiday card order today!

nal o i t i d Ad le! b a l i a v a esigns

d

Cards start at $20 for a box of 20 with envelopes.

Imprinting available for a nominal fee.

giving.archildrens.org/holidaycards (501) 364-1259 • 800-595-6498