Winter 2021: Volume 6, Number 2

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STAR

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF ROANOKE VALLEY

JLRV GIVING VOLUME 6 NUMBER 2 T H E S TA R J L R V. ORG

MAGAZINE

T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

DIGGING DEEPER

BY BRIANA APGAR AND JAMIE DILLARD A single human is made of trillions of cells, billions of neurons, and thousands of synaptic connections bridging each of those neurons. We are each beautifully and complexly detailed in our own composition and carefully crafted by our life experiences. Therefore, it is imperative that discussions of diversity extend past what is visible to our naked eye and include differences in how we live and view the world around us.

The Junior League of the Roanoke Valley

seeks to improve and expand its members’ definition and understanding of diversity by celebrating a myriad of elements. In addition to age, ethnicity, and gender, our focus on diversity includes many other factors, worthy of celebration and discussion, which are not always visibly obvious: profession, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, political beliefs, socioeconomic status, and cultural backgrounds. In the fall, members were trained to identify and address bias. This spring, members will be offered another training opportunity to better understand socioeconomic diversity.

Our League includes singles, mothers, teachers, health professionals, lawyers, fitness enthusiasts, arts lovers, bookworms, students, board members, journalists, and more. Members represent localities from the New River Valley to Roanoke to Botetourt County. We appreciate this diversity, knowing that our efforts benefit from the individual insight of so many unique members.

However, in holding space for these differences, we also honor the similarities which unite us: we are from many walks of life, but we are all women united in our vision of a thriving community.

ASSOCIATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL, INC.

STATEMENT ON CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY On January 6, 2021, Junior League Members around the world witnessed what was irreconcilable with our values: a direct and violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and on the pillars of American civic leadership. We unequivocally condemn: acts that undermine fundamental democratic ideals and the rule of law; racism, antisemitism, and hate; and the unequal application of justice.

We affirm our civic responsibilities and believe: In debate, not destruction; In voting, not violence; In the diversity of races, not racism; In freedom of religion, not religious persecution; and In inclusion and belonging, not division and discord.

Together, we will advance equity and accountability and work to dismantle systemic racism and religious hatred. The Junior League supports the peaceful transition of power and is committed to work with all who share our values of respect, collaboration and civil discourse.

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Junior League of Roanoke Valley 541 Luck Avenue, Suite 319 Roanoke, VA 24016 Phone: 540.343.3663 Email: info@jlrv.org jlrv.org

The Star Staff 2020-2021

Board of Directors 2020-2021

Management Team 2020-2021

Publisher: Sarah M. Johnson Managing Editor: Amanda Hensley Contributors/Writers: Briana Apgar Franny Apel Ashley Boles Jessie Coffman Jamie Dillard Kate Hailey Tyler Hower Brittny McGraw Courtney Watson

President: Jenna Zibton President-Elect: Kate Hailey Executive Vice President: Katie Jones Secretary: Margaret Ashburn Treasurer: Michelle Pendleton Nominating Director: Anna Muncy Member-At-Large: Lydia Higgs Sustaining Directors: *Lutheria Smith & Puppie McCloskey

Executive Vice President: Katie Jones Executive VP-Elect: Jessie Coffman Communications VP: Sarah M. Johnson Community VP: Franny Apel Finance VP: Lauren Boswell Administrative VP: Jennifer Crook Membership VP: Elizabeth Milne Fund Development VP: Jessica Beemer

designed by

*Past President of JLRV

OUR MISSION The Junior League of Roanoke Valley (JLRV) is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: The JLRV welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of individuals, organizations and communities.

The STAR is published three times annually by the Junior League of Roanoke Valley. No reproductions in any form are allowed without written permission.

Designed by Evolve Creative, Inc. and published by Bison Printing ©2021

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For information, please call 540.343.3663 or e-mail starmagazine@jlrv.org 2

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

RAM HOUSE COMPETITION

COMMUNITY COMMITTEE CORNER

STOCKED MARKET 2020

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THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

SPREADING CHEER WITH FOSTER CARE CHRISTMAS

THE JLRV HELPS DELIVER HOLIDAY CHEER TO CARILION CHILDREN’S PATIENTS

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NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

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FROM THE PRESIDENT When I think of the word ‘optimism,’ I also think of hope. After the year of 2020, we all can use some hope. Hope that we can get together and hug our family again, hope that our friends and neighbors that are struggling can continue to provide for their families, hope that life will get back to what it once was.

Despite the challenges thrown our way this League year, all of you have given me hope.

We continue serving our community in COVID-19 safe ways while also fostering the JLRV spirit.

There are so many examples of this. The first ever JLRV Carilion Children’s toy drive was a huge success and was born from our long standing relationship with Ronald McDonald House Charities. Since the House remains closed, members still wanted to find a way to spread holiday cheer to families. JLRV members and the local community stepped up in a big way!

The Fund Development Council wrapped up a new version of Stocked Market that reimagined how we could keep the holiday spirit alive, while also raising money to continue our mission.

Countless hours went into planning and executing these ideas that we can carry over into the next League year. A team is also working on our first Annual GIving Campaign that launches in March-April.

The Grants Committee is hard at work narrowing down applicants and we’re in the midst of collecting scholarship applications as well.

If you have ever served on either one of these committees, you know how difficult it is to select the winners; however it is so incredible to read through the applications and see what organizations and high school students are doing in our community.

The Recruitment Committee found a new way of showing the Roanoke Valley what we do by showcasing a JLRV tree in the United Way Fashions for Evergreens online tour.

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”

-HELEN KELLER

We also continue to support our members. Despite meeting virtually, we maintain connections with each other through online training, socials, text messages, and cards. Junior League members are part of a sisterhood that takes care of each other. As we finish out the rest of the League year strong, I’m filled with optimism because of all of you.

Thank you for continuing to say ‘yes,’ showing up with new ideas, fresh perspective and hope. We are #BetterTogether and we will get through this together.

I am proud to serve with you.

JENNA ZIBTON PRESIDENT OF JLRV, 2020-2021 T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

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Today and always, Relationships matter.

You can count on us.

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MEET THE EDITOR BOARD FROM Well, hello, 2021! I’ve been waiting for you an entire year!

Not really as funny a joke as it could have been, right? If only 2020 had been a normal year that didn’t feel like an eternity. But, this year – what an amazing opportunity to do things you’ve had to hold off doing because of the pandemic. Things and activities that you may have researched while quarantining, locations you looked up online as potential vacation spots, seeing people you’ve had to Zoom with but couldn’t sit across the table from because of shutdowns and safety protocols.

When thinking about this issue, the STAR committee could only think of one word: Optimism. And the reason these fabulous women came up with this theme is because look at what our members have done! In the middle of a pandemic, these women found ways to volunteer from a distance, they reached into their own pockets and donated to so many worthwhile charities and area non-profits, and they left the safety of their homes and forged into the community, volunteering to help the most vulnerable through what we can only describe as a truly unprecedented time.

Even though we all remain cautious, there is so much hope with vaccine efforts, continued social distancing, and new research coming out that supports re-openings of places like schools, restaurants, gyms, theatres, and many other venues that we took for granted once upon a time. I’m not just optimistic about this year – I’m inspired. I continue to be amazed by the efforts of the League leadership and members for their creativity and generosity of spirit even in the worst of days. We do have a ways to go before Roanoke is at a place where we can all “exhale” without wearing a face mask in public. But, I’m excited and hopeful due to continued efforts and actions of this League. I stated it in a previous letter but it still applies – we are better together, even if we are six feet apart. Thank you JLRV for being such an inspiration and providing a much needed respite for membership away from the pandemic blues.

AM AND A H E N S L E Y

I’m a woman Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman, That’s me.”

— M A YA A N GE L O U , “ PH E N O M E N A L W O M A N ”

S TA R EDI TO R, 2019-2 0 2 1

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COMMUNITY COMMITTEE CORNER

BY FRANNY APEL The mission of the JLRV is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and to improve the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

In the first half of the 2020-21 League year, the JLRV has continued its work towards understanding the needs of the Roanoke Valley. This is especially critical in light of the lasting effects of COVID-19. Members have had the opportunity to hear from various community members and organizations including Feeding Southwest Virginia, Plenty! and Humble Hustle. In January the keynote speaker represented Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare.

To meet the goal of leadership development, the JLRV has emphasized service on community boards and committees. The Alzheimer Association and Girls on the Run are two such organizations that have communicated opportunities. Girls on the Run is actively seeking board members to help round out their board.

In spite of the difficulties volunteering amidst COVID-19 restrictions and added precautionary measures, membership was able to contribute

woman-power to facilitate a number of events. The inaugural toy drive in partnership with Carilion Clinic was a resounding success.

Margaret Ashburn, JLRV Secretary, deserves a lot of credit for making this event happen! The New Member project supplemented the toy drive and involved putting together COVID-safe craft kits for the Children’s Hospital. Katie White, our JLRV liaison for Roanoke County Department of Social Services, ran point for the always-popular gift wrapping event. She also helped partner donors with foster children’s wish lists. League members also participated in supply drives to support Roanoke Area Ministries (RAM House) and voted to make donations to Humble Hustle, the Bradley Free Clinic, and Feeding Southwest Virginia in lieu of our annual holiday party.

aggregate information about food security in the Roanoke Valley and neighboring communities. The Service Committee continues to reach out to community partners to stay abreast of volunteer opportunities during COVID-19. [NOTE: Remember to fill out a JLRV Volunteer Waiver if you volunteer through the JLRV.] The Grants Committee is hard at work evaluating applications for the Community Focus, Apel Family and Care that Counts Grants. The Community Advisory Board will meet again in the spring. Additions will be made to JLRV.org to help facilitate member and community involvement and education. The JLRV will continue to seek educational and enriching speakers informed by feedback received from member surveys, Community Advisory Board feedback, and grant applications.

During the remainder of the 202021 League year the JLRV will endeavor to continue its positive work on behalf of the stakeholders in our community. Our motto for the year, “Better Together,” is also a call to action. The Collaboration Committee is busy working to research and

Throughout the pandemic the JLRV has demonstrated the ability to adapt. Most impressive has been the ability of this group of outstanding women to show how to make an impact on the community in spite of obstacles.

*If your organization has open board positions, committees or volunteer opportunities with which our League members may participate, please contact our office manager Sherry Howard at info@jlrv.org.

“THE GREATER THE OBSTACLE, THE MORE GLORY IN OVERCOMING IT.” - MOLIERE

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2021, PLEASE GIVE US A BREAK

BY TYLER HOWER

It takes a small moment to start a chain of joy, like:

2020 hit hard for many of us this year with a global pandemic, enough political commentary to last a lifetime, the rebirth of a social justice movement, and so much more. When the ball dropped, marking a new year, a collective sigh left us all. We all hoped it was a sign that things would start looking up.

1. Buying sandwiches for the homeless and have them delivered around the square

We asked some of our members what they were looking forward to in 2021. Traveling and social interactions were high on everyone’s minds. Some hoped for a COVID-19 vaccine, while others hoped for an in person Stocked Market. Many of the wishes for 2021 were about taking time to slow down and enjoy the people they could be around while bringing some joy to others.

Everyone could use a bit of joy in their lives and spreading it around is one of the few things we can do no matter what 2021 brings us. Kindness is contagious and courageous.

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2. Leaving an encouraging note for your mail carrier 3. Sending gifts to your neighbors, like baked goods 4. Leaving gift cards with the cashier at the grocery store to pay for people’s groceries 5. Handing out scratch-off lottery tickets to strangers 6. Paying for coffee for the car or person behind you 7. Mailing a handwritten letter or a card with a handwritten note to loved ones and friends 8. Volunteering (we can help with that) 9. Anonymously paying a utility bill for a stranger 10. Giving strangers compliments Though 2021 has had a rocky start, we still have a whole year ahead of us to hope and give hope to others.

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RAM HOUSE COMPETITION

BY AMANDA HENSLEY

In November, JLRV members purchased food and hygiene products in a friendly competition among League committees to donate to the RAM House. There was plenty of fun “smack talk” among the committees as items were delivered and counted by leadership. Even though the Community Council did an excellent job, coming out on top by donating 500 of the 815 total items, the real winners were the patrons of RAM House.

Roanoke Area Ministries (RAM) began their program in 1971, when local government officials and churches began noticing an increase in homelessness around the city of Roanoke. Through the hard work of these partnerships, their “grass-

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roots, interfaith effort” became a home for the most vulnerable in our community. The RAM House is now the largest day shelter in Roanoke, open 365 days every year. Guests are offered a continental breakfast and nutritious hot lunch as well as toiletries and clothing. The shelter has provided a safe and welcoming respite away from harsh weather conditions. Guests are also offered laundry services and can sign up to work through a day-labor program to earn an income.

The RAM House has also offered emergency financial assistance to help community members pay utility bills and rent. This program continues through the generous donations of community members

and organizations, like the JLRV. As we are doing our spring cleaning in the next few months, let’s remember the RAM House if we have extra canned goods and hygiene products in our homes that we can share. Wonderful job by all of the committees that took the time to donate to this amazing organization!

SPREADING CHEER WITH

Foster Care Christmas

BY COURTNEY WATSON

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, and beautifully-wrapped donated presents greeted many children in need on Christmas morning. To help spread a little cheer during a year that was historically difficult for the local community, the Junior League once again partnered with the Roanoke County Department of Social Services to brighten the holiday season as part of the annual Foster Care Christmas donation drive. For the past five years, the JLRV has participated in Foster Care Christmas to help provide holiday gifts for children in need, ensuring that foster children have presents to open no matter their circumstances.

Coordinated by Junior League member Katie White, Foster Care Christmas matches each child with a sponsor who donates their holiday presents. After being assigned a child, the sponsor receives his or

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her holiday wish list, a form that lets the sponsor know which items they need or would like to have. Sponsors can indicate a preferred gender or age range, or simply be assigned a child in need. After purchasing items from the list, sponsors dropped them off, unwrapped, at DSS, where they waited for Junior League elves to wrap them up with a bit of holiday magic and all the trimmings.

To spread the word about Foster Care Christmas, Junior League members Brittny McGraw, Lutheria Smith, Brittany Turman, Jessie Coffman, and Stephanie Force starred in a video to show members how to get involved. In addition to explaining the basics of the program and the Junior League’s involvement, they also highlighted the importance of the initiative to the local community.

Their sentiments were echoed by Jessica Hoal, an RCDSS Case Aide

for Foster Care and Adoptions, “Foster Care Christmas plays such an important role in showing our community and children that there is someone out there who cares. A lot of times people who encounter struggles, especially at the holidays, feel hopeless and/or discouraged; that simple gesture of a gift to their family or for a child just shows them the world isn’t all bad and sometimes even a total stranger cares.”

Personally, this was my first year as a Foster Care Christmas sponsor, and it was a wonderful experience. I did not specify an age range or gender, so it was a complete surprise when I received the holiday wish list for a teenage boy. I loved reading his list and getting some insight into his interests and a glimpse of his personality. His list included a variety of clothing and shoes, as well as books, games, and movies. It was a lot of fun to shop for the child

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SPREADING CHEER

I sponsored, and online shopping made it easy to ensure a safe and socially-distanced shopping experience. DSS also did a wonderful job organizing drop-offs at their office, which made the whole process quick and easy.

Sponsors often provide the only gifts a foster child receives for the holidays, which makes the Junior League’s partnership all the more meaningful. In addition to their regular sponsoring program for Foster Care Christmas, there are also additional sponsoring opportunities to fill in any gaps. Many sponsors request more than one child, and the Department of Social Services also relies on surplus sponsors to supply extra supplemental gifts, monetary donations, last minute sponsors, and sponsors for entire families--donations which are coordinated through the Roanoke County CPS office.

It’s truly a team effort to ensure the Foster Care Christmas program makes the holiday season merry and bright for local children in need.

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THAT’S A WRAP!

Once all of the presents donated by sponsors to Foster Care Christmas were collected and ready to wrap, Junior League members rolled up their sleeves and went to work at wrap parties on December 1st and 3rd. Wielding scissors, wrapping paper, bows, and plenty of holiday cheer, volunteers put the finishing touches on each present for an added touch of sparkle and shine.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no shortage of volunteers for each of the Foster Care Christmas wrapping parties. Always a popular volunteering event, a total of 12 Junior League members participated in this year’s wrapping parties, which were

restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers stayed safe by social distancing, sanitizing, and observing all recommended safety protocols. They got the job done and ensured a very happy holiday for children in foster care.

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JLRV HELPS DELIVER HOLIDAY CHEER TO

Carilion Children’s Patients

BY BRITTNY MCGRAW

The 2020 holiday season was unlike any other, with drive-thru light displays, virtual tree lightings, smaller gatherings and “Zoomsgiving” family celebrations, but despite the changes, one thing remained the same: the Junior League of Roanoke Valley’s commitment to giving back to our neighbors and community.

“Last year we did a lot with Ronald McDonald House and we typically do over the holidays and with Ronald McDonald House being shut down [because of COVID-19] I was wondering what we could do this year,” said Margaret Ashburn, JLRV secretary.

The JLRV has a long history with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia, dating back to the 1970s when the League began the work of helping to found the local Ronald McDonald House. With those giving and volunteer opportunities unavailable during the 2020 holiday season because of COVID-19 restrictions, Ashburn and League members set their sights on a new endeavor: the first JLRV drive-thru toy drive in partnership with Carilion Children’s.

“This originally started as a drive-by parade but when we learned the kids are on the back side of the hospital, that didn’t work,” Ashburn said. “They [Carilion

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Children’s] told us that there weren’t going to be any toy drives this year, or not many because of COVID-19, so that’s where the toy drive idea was born from.”

“Normally we are very fortunate to have a number of local businesses and partners participate in toy drives over the holiday season, but that number has been reduced greatly as so many offices are still working from home due to COVID-19,” said Erin Henderson, program director for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Carilion Children’s.

In addition, COVID-19 safety guidelines at Carilion Children’s require young patients to stay in their hospitals rooms and also meant there were no visits from Santa or performers this holiday season.

The JLRV members worked quickly to determine the logistics and safety guidelines for a successful drive-thru event. People who wanted to drop off donations in person could do so in the parking lot of Tanglewood Mall in Roanoke outside the former JCPenney on three successive Saturdays: November 21, November 28, and December 5. Volunteers at the drive-thru event wore personal protective equipment and community members who dropped off donations were asked to wear masks.

JLRV HELPS DELIVER HOLIDAY CHEER Community members could also contribute monetary donations or buy items from Carilion Children’s Amazon wish list that were mailed directly to the hospital.

“We were able to step up with a need and fill it and we put it together really fast, which I think is what makes the Junior League so special and powerful and unique: that we’re able to see a need and come to meet that need very quickly,” said Jenna Zibton, JLRV president.

Community members could choose from a list of requested items that was broken down by age group, ranging from infants to teens, when looking for items to buy. The list of requested items included a variety of toys, stuffed animals, arts and crafts items, games and educational materials as well as gift cards and clothing.

Wheeler Broadcasting, which operates several radio stations in southwest Virginia including Q99 WSLQ-FM and K92 WXLK-FM, served as the toy drive’s media sponsor.

Lawrence Moving, which offers moving and storage services and has offices in Virginia and North Carolina, provided trucks, boxes, and transportation for the toy drive.

Margaret Sharpe, a Roanoke resident who said she has been donating to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals for years, said she was happy to stop by the JLRV’s toy drive to support young patients.

“It doesn’t take but just a second to be kind to anybody, whether you know them or not,” Sharpe said.

The three-week event collected more than 3,000 toys

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and other needed items as well as more than $1,800 in monetary donations. Any toys not distributed during the holidays will be given to young patients throughout the year. JLRV members also put together 200 craft kits for children to help patients engage their creative side during their time in the hospital.

Both Carilion Children’s and JLRV members were grateful for the community’s generosity.

“The toy drive organized by the JLRV has been instrumental in helping Carilion Children’s build up their holiday toy inventory,” Henderson said.

“I’m really proud of all our members that have donated or volunteered or just spread the word,” Zibton said.

“So many of us are looking for connection and I think being connected to our community in this kind of way is really special.”

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NEW MEMBER CRAFT KIT PROJECT

BY ASHLEY BOLES

Nothing about the year 2020 was ordinary, but some semblance of normalcy was restored on November 19 and 21 when the JLRV New Member Class finally had the chance to meet one another in person (while wearing facial coverings and social distancing, of course)!

This past year, the New Member class fall project was to create craft kits for children who spent the holiday season at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Unfortunately, the traditional events and activities Carilion Children’s Hospital provides

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did not happen due to the global pandemic. As an alternative activity, kids at the hospital had the option to put together a variety of holiday-based crafts. The New Member class took time to put together these craft kits (with instructions) so that the assembly was easy and fun!

The four different crafts included: a Rudolph bell necklace, a beaded candy cane ornament, a New Year’s wishing wand, and as always a hit, snow slime!

Some of the crafts proved more challenging to put together than others, but all were fun, as were

the conversations. According to New Member Taylor Irish, “The New Member craft event allowed me to finally socialize with friends and give back to the community, two things I’ve really been missing since COVID-19 began. You finally feel connected to someone or something.”

The crafts were delivered in December and brought lots of holiday cheer. They were loved by all and it was a chance to bring the New Member class together with an activity that was both service-oriented and fun!

COOKBOOK CORNER: HEALTHY RECIPES

Healthy Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo INGREDIENTS: •

2 small heads broccoli, cut into florets

•

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

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½ teaspoon cayenne

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½ teaspoon garlic powder

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Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

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1 pound fettuccine

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1 cup hummus

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Zest and juice of one lemon

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2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

•

¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish

•

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

DIRECTIONS: 1.

Preheat oven

2.

Mix broccoli, olive oil, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees until lightly charred.

3.

Cook pasta and drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Add hummus, ½ cup pasta water, lemon zest and juice, butter, and Parmesan. Toss until a creamy sauce forms. Thin with additional pasta water as needed.

4.

Add broccoli and toss gently. Serve with Parmesan and fresh basil.

Airy French Meringues INGREDIENTS: •

2 egg whites

•

2/3 cup sifted granulated sugar

•

½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract

DIRECTIONS: Beat egg whites until very stiff, adding sugar in small amounts and beating into stiff peaks. Add extract and continue beating. Using a teaspoon, drop mixture onto a baking sheet dusted with flour. Bake 15 minutes in a preheated oven at 300 degrees. Reduce heat to 200 degrees and bake for an hour. Serve with fresh fruit and whipped cream garnished with fresh mint for a light dessert.

If you are interested in purchasing the Junior League of Roanoke Valley’s “Oh My Stars” cookbook, please contact the JLRV office.

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THANK YOU STOCKED MARKET

Sponsors & Merchants THIS YEAR'S STOCKED MARKET IS SPONSORED BY American National Bank, ALCOVA Mortgage, Potter Mariano LLC, and TCV Trust & Wealth Management PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS INCLUDE: Sugar Magnolia, Ruffled Feather Candle Co, Cloister Honey, Jonesburg Pepper Company, Nectar of the Vine, La Letters, She's International Boutique, Bay & Branch, Yarid's, Punch Boutique, GlamHouse Day Spa, Roots Salon, Duck Donuts, Beauty Bar, Luxury Nails, Cast Pints & Plates, Gift Niche, Pie Lady

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STOCKED MARKET 2020

THE SEASON OF GIFTS

BY COURTNEY WATSON

The Junior League’s 2020 Virtual Stocked Market was a rousing success that spread warmth and holiday cheer throughout the Roanoke Valley. Despite having to pivot to hosting a virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Stocked Market Committee rose to the challenge and pulled off an unforgettable series of events and fundraisers. The committee kept the holiday spirit bright by honoring the Stocked Market’s long history in the Roanoke Valley and also establishing new traditions that will benefit the community for years to come.

The Stocked Market Committee generated great excitement

and anticipation with a revved up social media campaign that featured announcements about Stocked Market events and new elements that debuted for the first time this year. The committee went the extra mile (and then some) to offer a safe, virtual version of the Junior League’s signature event and largest annual fundraiser. Helmed for the second year by Brittany Turman and Lindsay Tate, co-chairs of the Stocked Market Committee, this year’s event was characterized by a series of thoughtful and creative initiatives.

Committee members and Junior League volunteers donated their time and talent to successfully carry out brand new Stocked Market fundraising efforts: the Stocked Market Raffle, Stocked Market in a Box, and Letters to Santa.

For a donation of $10, Junior League volunteers helped Santa reply to children’s holiday letters.

After making a list and checking it twice, committee members made sure all requests for letters from Santa were signed, sealed, and delivered.

One of this year’s most highly-anticipated new additions was the Stocked Market in a Box. These $50 specialty boxes (valued at over $100) each included a handmade, commemorative 2020 Stocked Market ornament made

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STOCKED MARKET 2020 especially for the Junior League of Roanoke Valley by local artist Laura Davis of LA Letters. Other gift items included gourmet foods and beverage mixes, special offers from local vendors, and tickets for the Stocked Market raffle.

Junior League members sold over four hundred tickets for the final fundraiser, the Stocked Market Raffle.

Ticket holders waited with bated breath for the win-

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ning name to be drawn for the grand prize, a gift basket filled with over $1,000 worth of jewelry, accessories, salon products and gift certificates, and so much more--topped off with a festive Party On Your Head, of course! Annette Kirby was the big winner of the 2020 Stocked Market Raffle. Planning is already underway for the 2021 Stocked Market, scheduled for November 12-14, at the Berglund Center.

MEMBERS HAVING FUN Whether JLRV members were working, distance learning, or zooming into our Annual Holiday Celebration, 2020 was the year for photobombs.

Photobomb: Extra guests at the Holiday Party

Photobomb: Liath, Briana Apgar’s cat

Photobomb: Cole Scott Turman the Bunny

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Photobomb: Vader, Jessie Coffman’s cat

Photobomb: Piper and Prue, Sarah M. Johnson’s cats

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MEMBERS MEMBERS HAVING MOVING FUN The Roanoke Valley was blessed with wintry weather at the beginning of 2021. Some of our members and their fur babies got out in the snow and enjoyed the days.

Copper Bowden (Rosemary Saul, member)

Angela Mills and family

Amanda Downing’s family

Lola Grace (Rosemary Saul, member) 22

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Stephanie Force at the Mill Mountain Star

NOMINATING FUTURE LEADERS

BY TYLER HOWER

During our January General Membership Meeting, members of the Junior League voted on the new leadership slate for the 2021-22 League year. The final slate was the result of an annual selection undertaken by the Nominating Committee, who engage in a comprehensive and rigorous interview and selection process to provide continuity of leadership and a seamless transition. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible work being done by the Nominating Committee to ensure the League is always in good hands.

Think of the Nominating Committee as an HR panel working to find the perfect pieces to fit in the puzzle of our League. Potentially, up to 50 positions need to be filled every year.

Every leadership role must be monitored in the event members have to step away, and then evaluated when

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Organization Development Institute conferences need attendees from our League. To say the least, it’s a complex responsibility for the Nominating Committee to ensure that every leader chosen for the League is resilient and dynamic. Luckily, they’re more than equal to the task.

It starts with the application process and getting members excited about applying for positions, even if they are not sure a leadership role is for them. Then, the Nominating Committee completes interviews with every single applicant. They look for qualities like competency, skills, vision, and leadership style. Depending on applicants’ answers and their position of interest, the Nominating Committee makes recommendations for what they feel would be the best fit for each person and for the League. Because they have the ability to see the big picture, they can perhaps see roles that applicants are

perfect for but had not considered.

Once interviews are over, it’s time to ask if each applicant will accept the role the committee has selected for them. Should anyone decline, the committee will go back to the drawing board for that position. Finally, after going through this entire selection process, the positions for the leadership slate (including the Governance Board, Management Team, and Nominating Committee) are voted on while the other leadership positions (Community, Finance, Communications, Membership, Administrative, Fund Development councils) prepare to step into their roles.

The Nominating Committee makes this process look like a piece of cake. So easy, in fact, that other Leagues have reached out to the JLRV for assistance in updating their nominating process. That doesn’t mean that the

VO UM | U NM UM VO L UL M E E5 6| N B EBRE R2 2

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NOMINATING FUTURE LEADERS current Nominating Chair, Anna Muncy, doesn’t have dreams for our League and the Nominating Committee. Anna’s biggest hope is that more people will start applying for leadership positions so there will be plenty of applicants for every role. While that might make the committee’s job harder,

it would be worth it to help our League grow.

Anna also hopes that more people will apply to be on the Nominating Committee. “You meet so many League members and realize the raw, amazing talent that exists here. Understanding how everyone

fits and how to place them is the best way to understand our League on its deepest levels.” Anna says.

While we finish out this year and start the next, remember the Nominating Committee is the glue that keeps our puzzle together, allowing us to grow and flourish.

THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

ANNA MUNCY

MEG GRIFFITH

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GINGER POOLE AVIS

KAYLA OWATA

MEREDITH THOMPSON

SHANNON SHAFFER

SOME THINGS REMAIN THE SAME

BY JESSIE COFFMAN

No different than many proactive organizations, The Association of Junior Leagues International Inc. (AJLI) ceased in-person leadership training for the safety of its members during the pandemic. This decision led to a virtual Special Fall Meeting held October 23 and 24, 2020. This was my second time attending AJLI conference and I was struck by unexpected similarities and differences.

In February 2020, as COVID-19 was beginning to rear its ugly head in Florida, Jessie Beemer and I attended AJLI’s Organizational Development Institute (ODI) in Or-

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lando. We both left with pages of notes, energized about the work ahead of us, and with friends in Leagues around the country.

I expected October’s conference to be another in a long line of virtual meetings I’ve attended in the last year. In some ways that’s unavoidable. Not wanting to misspeak, people read instead of talking conversationally and the mute button is woefully underutilized.

The first time I signed onto the conference, however, I was almost instantly met with a chat from another League. The warm introduction started with a welcome, “we always meet up with the Ro-

anoke League at conferences.”

Never have I felt a connection that quickly across the internet.

The connection of the Junior League bonds us across the internet, across a widely attended conference, and sometimes just across the grocery store in our own town. Regardless of our distancesnear or far- there is a commonality. We’re here to cheer on other women’s successes, to build our community, and receive leadership training to bolster ourselves.

I still left this conference with quickly scrawled notes and feeling energized. I also reveled in the support of League membership.

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REACHING THE SUMMIT

BY KATE HAILEY

The Virginia Junior Leagues have joined together since 2016 for a fall statewide Summit.

Members have gathered together to discuss a range of topics such as: Advocacy, Statewide Coalition Building, Diversity and Inclusion, Membership Retention, and Transformational Leadership. The JLRV hosted the JL Virginia Summit in 2017, leading the conversation on Advocacy and Coalition Building.

Reverend Janie

Unfortunately, this year the conference schedWalker, Keynote Speaker of the uled for Charlottesville was moved online, like 2020 VA Summit so many other events this year due to Covid-19.

While this could have been a hinderance to our gathering, it was still a widely successful event room on Zoom to join other members in similar positions. and Junior League members from all over the state were One standout member in my room was past JLRV member able to stay home, be safe and still connect while digging Bethany (Brumfield) Lynch who is now the Executive Vice deeper into Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. League memPresident of Charlottesville’s Junior League. Members were bers decided to have the 2021 Summit in Lynchburg and able to share ideas for dealing with this difficult year and Charlottesville will host in 2022. not being able to meet; working with members on finanOur league had 11 members attend, the most members of any league to join. The meeting highlight was Reverend Janie Walker’s keynote address on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Her impassioned speech encouraged members to be present in our current context and be aware and sensitive to what is going on around us. She stated, “Be sensitive to those who feel like they’re unsafe, being held hostage to political rhetoric, don’t become lost in the tumultuous waters of our society.” Walker encouraged attendees to find intentionality in our work, offer compassion and continue to focus on the vision of being inclusive in all that we do.

Rev. Janie Walker noted that 30% of members in almost every organization carry the weight of group. She challenged us to envision how we want to see our league in the future. “If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him. We need not wait to see what others do.” Rev. Walker quoted Gandhi as she called us to step up and take an assessment of our personal vision and mission statements to bring us moving forward with this call to action.

Members were able to join small groups in a breakout

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cial restraint from job loss, and how to help members gain “value” from JL membership while we are waiting for life to come back to a little bit of normalcy.

Some best practices other members in VA have found successful are: Zoom break-out rooms, diverse opportunities for online meetings such as teaching hobbies, digital trivia nights or scavenger hunts, and virtual Ladies Who Lunch.

Members mentioned worries about retention from this year, the New Member experience, finding out what members are comfortable with in regard to meeting while navigating COVID-19, membership engagement, and fundraising in such hard times.

While this event surely was not the typical JL of Virginia Summit, the chance to hear from a thought-leader within DEI, discuss with members from other leagues the benefits and hardships from this year while planning for our future. While it might appear to be grim now, it is evident that we are Better Together, and the ladies of the Junior League are working hard behind the scenes to reflect on how we collectively and individually can grow and become influencers for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion movement within our communities.

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Anna S emonco

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VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 2

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OUT OF THE MAILBOX k you , than bs of t s o ort m Girls Clu are supp your e Boys & you who d e e h , ho n .00 to t tners like JLRV r Dear uth w 00 ur yo t of $2,5 kful for pa o f o if lf n g and a a s h h t u ! e th e City On b ur genero e are so this time anok rving you h o W g o R . y in r A r it in e u V s fo s d w t y n s s e t t e c io w en locat ery Coun he studen lwork, b South g a differ lu oo 8 C ontgom isting t h sch makin have ss M e we unty and taff are a them wit arn. im t t s g to le lpin esen Our n Co At pr y, Frankli gh 12th. lasses, he y are able time! c t ficult e u l n if h o a u r t d u o h t e t is r C g th whe eir vir s 1st durin grade g on to th safe place cceed u in a s g g h g in lo out rovid our y and p elping h e r ea her w Toget th, g you Servin

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JLRV, On b e thank half of the $5,56 you for yo volunteer s u helpin 7.50 to su r kind an , staff, and d p durin g us to be port our s generous above all, g day t e time ter work w rvice expa donation our patien hours in the ts, nsion ith o The B in a dditio ur patien efforts. Y amount r ts’ sc of Roan adley Free n to o o u r hed gift o ur reg produ ke Valley. Clinic con ular e ules and is tinue We e ctive s v e ening e st xis individ clinic them uals m t to creat o be a valu hours Again e a a a . b d , c le e pos world we than sible ommunity resource k a bet t y h in o o r f u o t h h ugh y for yo ter pla our d ealthy and e ur su ce.

Kinde onatio pport st Reg n in . helpin ards, g to m ake t he

Randall R. Rhea Janine U nderwood

Rand all R. Rhea, M.D., Board Presid ent Janin e Und e Bradle y Free rwood, Exe cutive Clinic Direct or

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JLRV’S 2020-2021

Calendar of Events March 16 Pre-GMM Training (5:30 - 6:30 p.m.)

April 15 Annual Sustainer Members Meeting

March 24 Ladies Who Virtually Lunch (Noon - 1 p.m.)

April 20 Pre-GMM Training (5:30 - 6:30 p.m.) May 18 Annual Celebration (7 p.m.)

General Membership Meeting (7 p.m.)

May 27 Book Club (7 p.m.) The Guest List by Lucy Foley April 21 Ladies Who Virtually Lunch

General Membership Meeting (7 p.m.)

March 25 Book Club (7 p.m.) Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

(Virtual Meeting, at 6:30 p.m.)

April 22 Book Club (7 p.m.) American Royals by Katharine McGee

(Noon - 1 p.m.)

March 27 JLRV Blood Drive

WEDDINGS

COUPLES

FAMILIES

SENIORS

FAMILYTREEPHOTOGRAPHYVA.COM

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THE

STAR

Junior League of Roanoke Valley | 541 Luck Avenue, Suite 319 | Roanoke, VA 24016 | 540.343.3663 | jlrv.org

2 21

SEASON TRINKLE MAINSTAGE SERIES

THE FRINGE

MMT CONCERT

YOUNG AUDIENCES SERIES

Visit millmountain.org or call 540-342-5740 for tickets.

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