JLRV STAR Magazine Vol 6, No 1

THE

STAR

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF ROANOKE VALLEY

ENJOYING THE VIEW… Stocked Market Committee

…WHILE ALWAYS MOVING FORWARD

VOLUME 6 NUMBER 1 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

IT’S OKAY

TO NOT BE OKAY

BY TYLER HOWER COVID-19 has been affecting everyday life for almost a year in the United States. That’s longer than most pregnancies last, longer than a traditional school year, longer than any sports’ season, and it’s longer than everyone expected.

During this time, expectations for life have changed. The pressure to use every minute of the “extra time” given in lockdown has been tremendous. We celebrate how many walks we take, how we picked up an old hobby or learned a new skill. If you’re fortunate enough to still have your job, either working

from home or staying as safe as possible in your essential position, work was a challenge you tackled headon. It was the only way to cope with a global pandemic, people getting sick and not getting better, the loss of routine, and the loss of human life across the globe.

The novelty of having “extra time” has worn off. Children have to go to school, you still have to work or find a new job, people are still getting sick and still aren’t getting better, and your routine has been forever changed.

If the last ten months taught us anything it’s that being positive and productive aren’t the only ways to be re-

silient. Resiliency is allowing ourselves to grieve, to be a hot mess, and to not have any answers on what to do next.

It’s knowing that sadness isn’t the opposite of self-love or that having anxiety doesn’t make you less of a hero.

Accepting that everything is overwhelming is not admitting defeat. It’s giving yourself permission to actually assess what is going on and what you want to do about it.

So, take your walk, do what you have to do, slow down when you need to, and remember to feel all your feelings. It really is okay if you’re not okay.

Your feelings are valid and you’re allowed to have them.

*** There are many local resources if you need help. If you feel you are having a mental health emergency, call 9-1-1 and seek medical assistance.

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THE

STAR

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 Jessie Coffman Laura Conte Jamie Dillard Hannah Hopkins Tyler Hower Brittny McGraw Courtney Watson Brady Woolwine

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

*Past President of JLRV

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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 ©2020

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

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LET’S CONNECT! fb.com/JuniorLeagueRoanokeValley @JLRoanokeValley jlrv.org

Index to Advertisers American National Bank & Trust Ballister’s Bakery Bay & Branch Cast Plates & Pints Cloister Honey Divine Fog Realty Company Family Tree Photography Jonesburg Pepper Company Laura Davis | La Letters

Mill Mountain Theatre Monday Morning Press Nectar of the Vine Ruffled Feather Candle Co She’s International Sugar Magnolia The Gift Niche The Pie Shoppe

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

JLRV SUPPORTS HUSTLE/HAVEN RESPITE SPOT

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM AJLI

RACIAL EQUITY CHALLENGE

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STOCKED MARKET 2020

BE BOLD. JOIN THE BOARD.

ROANOKE ARTS GRAPPLE WITH THE PANDEMIC

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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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THANK YOU STOCKED MARKET

Sponsors

We would like to thank all of the merchants and sponsors of the Stocked Market 2020 for this year’s fundraisers. Here are a few of the merchants who will be showcased in either our curated boxes or raffled basket!

American National Bank & Trust

Jonesburg Pepper Company

Ruffled Feather Candle Co

Bay & Branch

Laura Davis | La Letters

She’s International

Monday Morning Press

Sugar Magnolia

Nectar of the Vine

The Gift Niche

Cast Plates & Pints Cloister Honey

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The Pie Shoppe

FROM THE PRESIDENT 2020. The year of Coronavirus, cancelled plans, and schools shut down.

2020. The year of innovation, trying new things, reconnecting with family, and slowing down.

What describes you? Honestly, I’ve had plenty of moments where I’ve been down about this whole thing… but I think we all have. When life doesn’t go our way, we lose jobs, go through a health crisis, or have things fall apart, it’s sometimes hard to look at the positive.

I’m trying to look at this year as a chance to do things differently. We may never have a chance again in our lifetime to be as innovative as we have this year. What that means for each of us looks different. Working from home, starting a new hobby, or a new routine for your family. Some of the things we’re being forced to do may become something that sticks even after the pandemic is over.

We’re also re-imaginingwhat Junior League of Roanoke Valley looks like with virtual meetings, trainings, socials, and fundraising. I’m so proud of how we have pulled together and approached everything differently.

We’ve taken on everything from business meetings, to recruiting New Members and catching up over lunch and moved it to an online platform. When the business portion of meetings is over, many times our members stick around to chat about what’s going on in our lives much like we would if we were meeting in person. That personal and friendship connection isn’t lost, which is one of the many reasons the JLRV is so special.

With our biggest fundraiser of the year Stocked Market not able to happen this year, the Co-Chairs and planning team quickly came up with new ideas to connect with our loyal merchants you would typically see at the event. They’ll be bringing you some different ways to support local businesses, do some holiday shopping and support the ongoing mission of the JLRV. The Stocked Market team is so passionate, which is what makes them so successful!

This unique and new normal we’re all in has made me appreciate each and everyone of you, whether I’ve worked with you for ten years or just one. We all have different skill sets and time after time members are T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

proving they are adaptable so we can still better our community and ourselves.

Katie Jones is this year’s Executive Vice President and keeps the League running like a well oiled machine. I’m so thankful to have her leadership, eye for detail, honesty and thoughtfulness as we navigate this League year. She’s my co-partner this year and we are both #BetterTogether just like the League is #BetterTogether no matter where we are serving from.

Change. Innovation. Resilience.

The women of the JLRV continue lifting each other up while also serving our community.

I’m so proud to serve with you.

JENNA ZIBTON PRESIDENT OF JLRV, 2020-2021 VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 1

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JLRV/CARILION TOY DRIVE The holidays are going to look a lot different this year, especially for children in the hospital. Because of COVID-19 safety guidelines, children must remain in their hospital rooms. They won’t get visits from Santa, performers to keep them entertained, or be able to play with other children in the playroom.

Carilion Children’s Hospital usually relies on corporate sponsors to provide holiday gifts but because most people are working virtually, employee toy drives are not likely this year. The Junior League of Roanoke Valley (JLRV) is asking the community to step up and help make the holidays brighter for these children.

“It is an unprecedented year and a difficult time for many across the Roanoke Valley. Our members have a long history of stepping up during times of need, and this year is no different,” said Katie Jones, Executive Vice President of Junior League of Roanoke Valley. “We could not think of a better way to use our resources and put a smile on the faces of families during the holidays.”

For a full list of requested items that you can download, please go to https://www.jlrv.org/toy-drive/.

The JLRV and Carilion Clinic will work together to make this as safe as possible for both the community and patients. Volunteers will wear personal protective equipment and the drive-thru will be contactless. Community members must wear masks when dropping off toys, and they will be asked to place them in the bins themselves. All donations will be quarantined for two weeks before they are distributed. Any toys left over after the holidays will be given out throughout the year.

“Over the years, we’ve been so fortunate to receive an outpouring of support from our community to make the holidays a little more normal for children who are with us,” said Dr. Donald Kees, interim chair of Carilion Children’s. “This year is different in a lot of ways, but the need is even greater because it may be more difficult for people to donate.”

Ways to donate include: • Buy a toy from the suggested list at https:// www.jlrv.org/toy-drive/ and bring it to one of three Saturday drive-thru drop-offs: November 21, November 28, and December 5, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parking lot of the Tanglewood Mall outside the former J.C. Penney’s. All donations must be new.

• Donate online at https://www.jlrv.org/toy-drive/ and your money will be used to buy toys, games and crafts for children • Visit Carilion Children’s Amazon wish list and purchase the item(s) that will be directly mailed to the hospital.

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Your wedding day will be the , complete with a party to celebrate a between .

By focusing exclusively on wedding and groom’s cakes, Barrister’s Bakery is the perfect choice to impress your guests with a gorgeous, custom designed cake. Contact Emily to set up a tasting and begin designing that today.

Emily Poff www.barristersbakery.com barristersbakery@gmail.com

MEET THE EDITOR BOARD FROM As I reflect on this past year of an ongoing pandemic, devastating racial injustice and inequality, and a volatile national election, I am reminded of the rule, “Treat others as they would like to be treated.” The JLRV has the ability to create a space of belonging for all women, a place where we are stronger and better together because each person is uniquely themselves.

Racial injustice and inequality for any League member matters to all League members. And, it is our responsibility as members and as humans to first seek to understand the experiences of others so that we can then act to help create meaningful change in the League as well as in our communities.

From the start of my membership in JLRV, what struck me most was how much members care for one another. It is with this care, that comes an obligation to do more. I witness so many wonderful bonds among membership, and those bonds should mean we make a commitment to truly understand one another—who we are as individuals and what each of us needs and wants. This commitment must be followed up by action to have real meaning and be something other than platitudes. Listening to each other, really listening, and seeking to understand, is a powerful way to shed our indifference and put ourselves in other members’ shoes.

The power of empathy can move mountains. Being a passive ally is just not enough. We have a choice in how we act inclusively, every day. Our membership is rooted in relationships, and we can have incredible impact on our members when we exemplify the care and respect that each human deserves.

So, to the JLRV membership, an amazing group of resilient women, let’s stand together and choose to be the place and the people that become a vehicle to create better spaces for all of our members. There is so much work to be done, but I believe recent events have motivated us to become better versions of ourselves. We are listening and learning more, and examining our programming and practices for bias and barriers. It is our responsibility to map out a thoughtful approach, led by our DEI Co-Chairs and Leadership, for how our League can further commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion. I hope all of us will be a part of rewriting a narrative to one of greater understanding and hope within the League. I am not naïve about the commitment that will need to be undertaken. However, I am confident that together we can make this League purposeful in true friendship and leadership.

Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”

– RU T H B A D ER GI N SB URG , U . S. SU P RE M E C O URT J USTICE

AM AND A H E N S L E Y S TA R EDI TO R, 2019-2 0 2 1 T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

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SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM AJLI THE ASSOCIATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL condemns discrimination, racism, and racial injustice in our communities and in our Junior Leagues.

Black women and other women of color have been systemically denied equity and inclusion in

our economy, education, civic privileges, and responsibilities in the voluntary sector, including in The Junior League. As affirmed by our member Junior Leagues, we are accelerating our efforts to take action and advance definitive, measurable policies and

practices that eliminate racism in our countries, our communities, and our Junior Leagues. When we do this, we unlock tremendous power for our communities and realize our vision of women around the world as catalysts for lasting change.

JLRV COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

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The Junior League of Roanoke Valley, Virginia, Inc. welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of individuals, organizations and communities. The JLRV adopted this statement from AJLI in 2018 and was one of the early adopters of this initiative and the Diversity and Inclusion task force quickly followed suit. That group met several times a year for two years.

the potential of women, and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

This League year, we have taken an even bigger step and committed to six Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trainings open to all members. This initiative is being led by DEI Co-Chairs Briana Apgar and Jamie Dillard. If you would like to learn more about our initiatives, please contact them at DEI@jlrv.com.

September: DEI-focus book club on Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is about valuing and celebrating our differences and similarities. We all have different backgrounds, belief systems, families, history, zip codes, income levels, education, and more. But as JLRV Members, we all share the same mission of promoting voluntarism, developing

March: pre-GMM DEI training

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Here’s a snapshot of events that have taken place or are yet to come this year: July: optional DEI training from Woods Rogers on Implicit Bias, Diversity and Inclusion

October: DEI activity at GMM November: DEI keynote speaker at GMM February: DEI optional training April: DEI keynote speaker at GMM JENNA ZIBTON, PRESIDENT, JLRV KATIE JONES, EVP, JLRV

THE DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Journey

BY JAMIE DILLARD

As a League we are in a constant process of learning and growing in regard to DEI. We have only begun to do the work and find areas of opportunity to improve as a League regularly. DEI matters aren’t pretty concepts, they are deep and difficult discussions. It’s hard work, but

it’s a necessary work. Discussion around racism, equity, inclusion, discrimination, and all other issues under DEI are heavy topics to digest. Our DEI Co-Chairs encourage this conversation and have been working to develop a safe platform to have these conversations in a healthy and effective manner. DEI Co-Chair Briana

Apgar recently started Take Action Tuesday, where on certain Tuesdays she’ll encourage members to have the difficult conversations or provide steps on living a more inclusive life. A recent conversation the group was able to share in was Equity vs. Equality. Is it better to be Equitable or Equal? What does Equity look like for you?

EQUITY VS. EQUALITY

BY BRIANA APGAR

As our League digs deeper into DEI concepts, one recurrent theme is the idea of equity over equality.

Equality means that everyone receives the same and equal resources, whereas equity strives to offer everyone the same and equal opportunity. Angus Maguire created a visual explanation for The Interaction Institute for Social Change that best describes the difference between equality and equity. On the side of “equality,” we see that everyone receives the same box to view the game. For one individual, the box is not necessary. For another individual, one box is not enough! On the “equity” side, we see how the boxes are redistributed so that everyone receives an equal opportunity to view the ball game. Of course, this visual can be taken a step further, and perhaps you have seen the updated and expanded image which includes T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

additional panes of “justice” and “liberation.” In those graphics, the individuals view the ball game from inside the venue. That certainly is worthy of discussion, but as we look at our own lives, communities, and

workplaces, where can we take first steps toward equity? As we explore DEI this year, Jamie and I welcome discussion and feedback to tackle these tough issues and move in an equitable trend.

Interaction Institute for Social Change, Artist: Angus Maguire

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JLRV SUPPORTS

Hustle /Haven RESPITE SPOT

I was not alone. Other people wanted something like Hustle/ Haven, as well. It feels good to find a community that aligns with your views and beliefs and supports you. I can’t wait to see how Hustle/Haven grows and how the community continues to embrace it and make it their own.”

BY COURTNEY WATSON

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Members of Junior League of the Roanoke Valley provided refreshments to people advocating for change during the early summer demonstrations staged outside of the police station in downtown Roanoke. The parking lot of Hustle/Haven, a new hot yoga and indoor cycling studio and self-care boutique owned by Junior League member London Ray-Dykstra, served as a respite spot for Black Lives Matter protesters. The respite spot offered food, drinks, masks, hand sanitizer, and much-needed shade during the hottest days of summer. JLRV members were among the many volunteers who supplied beverages, coolers, and ice, as well as helping with the food and drink stations during the daily peaceful protests.

we couldn’t not do something. It was a given, especially with the physical location of our business, that we would be involved in some way. I knew we could offer a safe space for the protestors and so we hopped into action as quickly as we could to arrange that.”

For Ray-Dykstra, offering Hustle/ Haven’s parking lot as a respite spot during the protests was an obvious choice. “As a business, we have values and Hustle/Haven’s values are steeped in valuing life (yours, your friends and family, your community) and that means all lives so

Since celebrating Hustle/Haven’s grand opening on August 28, Ray-Dykstra has been thrilled by the reception her business has received from the Roanoke community. “The community has received Hustle/Haven with open arms! It has been really lovely to see that

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Looking towards the future, Ray-Dykstra is mindful of the role that Hustle/Haven can play in the health and wellness of the community. She designed Hustle/Haven to fill a gap for hot yoga and cycling enthusiasts in Roanoke.

“When I moved to Roanoke I was sad that there wasn’t a hot yoga studio or a cycling studio because they were so integral to my self-care routine. I also was sad that there weren’t more community spaces that were fun, safe, beautiful, and welcoming.

So, I decided to build my kind of place which encourages people to take a break from their daily obligations and take time for themselves whether that is with hot yoga, cycling, or just enjoying a coffee with a friend in a beautiful, safe space.”

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE

is waiting for you

BY TYLER HOWER

The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge (REC) is just that: a challenge. Being in September’s cycle, I learned that it was not only a challenge to work on a topic for 21 days. It is a challenge to yourself to decide if you’re ready and willing to put in the work for racial equity. It’s a challenge for people just starting the journey and a challenge for those of us who consider ourselves well informed. It’s a few moments every day to reflect on and discuss topics that affect how we view our own community, consciously or unconsciously. Those reflections and discussions challenge us to be better people to our loved ones, friends, and neighbors.

With topics ranging from race identity and white privilege to microaggressions and tokenism, the REC combines topics and discussion questions to create a deep dive

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into racial issues in the U.S. Each topic has the ability to be applied to the communities we are a part of and serve through our mission.

For example, while talking about redlining, I was able to discuss Roanoke’s history with urban renewal and the erasure of Black communities. At our following meeting, my group members brought research from their communities and we discussed how this continues to affect our Leagues.

Their opinions have been an invaluable resource to my development as a human and a League member. Stephanie Force, also in September’s cycle, feels the same about her group: “The most impactful part about this challenge has been getting to know the other members of my group and learning how to facilitate open, honest, and sometimes hard conversations.”

While the REC makes it clear that during the challenge we are learning about racial equity, many of the lessons can be applied through an intersectionality-lens once the challenge is over.

The REC teaches us the roots of social justice language is in racism and racial equity teachings. It’s important to know that tokenism, which is only an appearance of racial equality, started in racism and, because of that, we can now use it to describe the same feelings when it happens to other marginalized people. Jessie Coffman, who has already completed the REC, took this particular lesson to heart after completing the challenge: “I was particularly struck by a video of an artist whose work revolves around biased journalism. She alters the language to juxtapose the descriptions of victims of crimes.

This prompted me to view news articles with a more critical eye.”

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RACIAL EQUITY CHALLENGE This challenge isn’t just for 21 days. It’s a life goal. My major takeaway from my participation was how much potential there is to make real change on multiple levels.

Stephanie and Jessie believe that everyone in our League can make an impact on themselves and the community.

the uncertainty of 2020. It was nice to be part of something positive. It equipped me to share knowledge with my own social circles and to comfortably enter difficult conversations.” – Jessie

“I would love to see more members of our League taking the time to participate in the Racial Equity Challenge. The more of us who participate it, the greater impact we can have on our community.” – Stephanie

By continuously challenging ourselves to learn and grow, “addressing poverty by connecting the community to existing resources and removing barriers to healthcare and food” becomes more than our community focus. It becomes an achievable goal.

“The actuality was that I learned new information every day about myself in addition to all I learned about racial equity. This challenge was a welcome change to

There are still spots available for upcoming cycles of the 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge. Log onto AJLI’s website to sign up.

JUNIOR LEAGUE 21-DAY RACIAL EQUITY CHALLENGE The Challenge offers Junior League Members an intensive daily learning experience with other Members in a small Team setting to engage in discussions about racism and their individual role in achieving racial equity in their communities.

For 21 days, participants receive an email every morning with links to articles, videos, and information. You spend time learning and reflecting before meeting with a group of other Junior League women online from across the country to discuss your takeaways and experiences. These conversations last anywhere from 45 minutes or more depending on how much your group decides to meet. Many JLRV members who have participated in the AJLI challenge have formed friendships with others in their groups and still email and meet to talk about issues in their communities.

We have an opportunity in front of us to be a part of change and we encourage our Members to be brave, take risks, get uncomfortable, and to take this actionable step with us today!

ACKNOWLEDGMENT: The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge grew out of the positive experiences of an AJLI staff team who participated in the Food Solutions New England’s 21 Day Racial Equity Challenge in April 2020. This content is being used with permission from Food Solutions New England and their 21-Day Habit Building Racial Equity Challenge and Challenge Discussion Guide, from which our Challenge was adapted. This content is owned by Food Solutions New England and is used exclusively for learning and educational purposes. We also credit them for their wisdom in preparing a highly effective learning tool on a multi-faceted topic.

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LOVE BOOKS? JOIN THE CLUB!

BY AMANDA HENSLEY

I have a secret. It’s not a deep, dark secret, but nevertheless still shocking to put in print. Brace yourself: I am a member of four (yes, 4!) different book clubs. Full disclosure, I am obsessed with books. When I was a child, I would borrow the maximum amount of books allowed from the local library every two weeks. I am not proud to say that I would secretly scoff at the librarian when they would tell me I had picked out too many and had to put some back… but only until my next visit, when those books would finally be mine for those precious weeks of checkout. When libraries open back up, I plan to be first in line just to be surrounded by books. And, I do spend time in local bookstores, even if I don’t purchase a single item, just to take the whole atmosphere in. My love for books knows no bounds, and it is because of my obsession that I was so fortunate to be at the right place at the right time to meet two authors of books I had recently read, thanks to the JLRV. You see, the League started a book club not so long ago, and members like me have jumped at the opportunity to pour over the stories, bringing hearty discussions with fellow book lovers at each meeting. These informal get-togethers have continued through the pandemic, via Zoom, and have been a wonderful retreat to see familiar faces and to delve deeper into the meanings of each story selected.

Deborah Roberts and Tayari Jones

For our August book, Followers, JLRV Executive VP Katie Jones surprised everyone by announcing the author, Megan Angelo, would be joining us for the book club meeting. It was such an inspiration to speak with Ms. Angelo on how she created the characters and the cities in her book. A few of the members even created beverages from the story to celebrate the event!

As if this wasn’t the best moment for a book lover, the very next month in September, I received an invitation to my alma mater’s book club, where they had invited the author of the book as well! Why I mention this event is that it was the May selection of JLRV’s book club, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones.

I enjoyed every minute, listening to Ms. Jones describe how she created this riveting story, with ABC News journalist, Deborah Roberts, facilitating the book club event.

less, although I will admit joining four might be a little overboard.

But, I for one am so grateful that the JLRV created and has continued to maintain a space for women like me who cannot get enough of the written word. If you like books and would be interested in joining the discussion, look for the JLRV book club listing in the STAR Express newsletter. The following is a brief list of recent titles the JLRV book club has read: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones, Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng, Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult, and My Dear Hamilton: A Novel of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton by Laura Kaye and Stephanie Dray.

JLRV Sustainers have been gathering together for years as part of the Reading Lassie’s Book Club. Stay tuned for more on that tradition and other Sustainer events in an upcoming issue of STAR.

Books have been such a lifesaver during this global health crisis, where we have all had to slow down and spend more time at home.

To be able to have this outlet of book clubs has been price-

Reading is the key that opens doors to many good things in life. Reading shaped my dreams, and more reading helped me make my dreams come true.”

Megan Angelo, author of Followers

– RUTH BADER GINSBURG, U.S. SUPREME COURT JUSTICE

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STOCKED MARKET 2020

BY COURTNEY WATSON

While the JLRV may not be decking the halls of the Berglund Center this year due to the COVID19 pandemic, the spirit of the Stocked Market lives on and promises to make this holiday season merry and bright. The Stocked Market committee has worked tirelessly since March to revise their plan for the Junior League’s signature fundraiser, which has raised $3.2 million to support scholarships and philanthropic efforts in the Roanoke Valley over the past thirty years. Showing resilience, creativity, and true innovation, the 2020 Stocked Market Committee has worked hard to make sure this year’s event is one to remember.

FUNDRAISERS

This year’s Stocked Market will feature a record-breaking three fundraisers to help shoppers kick off the holiday season in style. Stocked Market Co-Chairs Brittany Turman and Lindsay Tate say the committee was determined to continue time-honored traditions and also to support the local merchants, crafters, and business owners who have been steadfast partners over the years. “The 2020 Stocked Market team wanted our loyal merchants to feel included and not forgotten during these unprecedented times. It was very import-

ant for us to get creative in coming up with ways to showcase their goods and get them to our shoppers.”

In order to accomplish this goal, the Stocked Market committee had to quickly adapt and innovate.

STOCKED MARKET IN A BOX

Who doesn’t love a festive box laden with holiday surprises? Helmed by Merchant Committee Co-Chairs Lisa Van Wickler and Ashley Mauceri, these thoughtfully curated boxes will feature items from beloved local merchants and include a commemorative souvenir ornament. Valued at over $100, each Stocked Market in a Box will be $50 and supplies will be limited to 100 boxes, making this a truly special way to get in the holiday spirit. According to Turman and Tate, these boxes are just one way the Stocked Market will spread joy this year: “We wanted our shoppers to have the opportunity to continue to support the JLRV Stocked Market with these curated Stocked Market boxes, which will include small giftable items they can share with their friends and family over the holiday giving season.”

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STOCKED MARKET 2020 LETTERS FROM SANTA

STOCKED MARKET ON LOCATION

This year’s Stocked Market will include plenty of holiday fun for kids of all ages. Children will delight in a hand-written letter from Santa himself as part of the Letters From Santa fundraiser. Helmed by Event Committee Co-Chairs Brittany Sanford and Lauren Tolley, Letters From Santa will mail out specially-penned missives from the North Pole for a $10 donation from November 7th-December 11th. Tate hopes to see Letters From Santa become a new addition to the Stocked Market. “Santa reflects the magic of the season therefore we wanted to make sure that children weren’t left feeling like Santa wasn’t ‘watching’ during this crazy COVID-19 year. We hope that the personalized letters from St. Nick himself become a Stocked Market tradition for years to come.”

Stocked Market patrons will also delight in Stocked Market on Location and Stocked Market raffle tickets ($10 per ticket), which will offer special deals for Stocked Market shoppers including a raffle prize package of multiple items from long-time Stocked Market merchants and sponsors (estimated value of package at $500). The raffle will run the same dates as the other two fundraisers.

The drawing for the raffle will take place on December 14th. Organized by Turman and Tate, Stocked Market on Location will feature local merchants offering “show discounts” both at their shops and online storefronts via discount codes. These merchants will not only be featured on JLRV social media platforms, but members of the JLRV and the Stocked Market Committee will also be on location to help spread holiday cheer.

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NOTORIOUSLY RESILIENT

BY JESSIE COFFMAN

She’s the stuff of legends and the queen of internet memes. Most recently, she is known simply by the image of one famous accessory, her dissent collar. The Notorius R.B.G. or...Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was the second female Supreme Court Justice and the high court’s first Jewish female justice. Regardless of your political affiliation, Justice Ginsburg’s career has profoundly impacted on your life.

Ruth Bader’s mother had two lessons for her daughter, “to be a lady and to be independent.” Those ideals carried her through her legal career and is evident in the opinions she penned for the Supreme Court. The

independent Ginsburg and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor made slight adjustments to the formal black justice robes originally designed to accommodate the male collar and tie. The two added a bit of frilly lace to their robes. Throughout her time on the bench, Ginsburg used her collars to add style and to subtly make statements.

Ginsburg began her lifelong pattern of minimal sleep entering Harvard Law School as the mother of a toddler. The resiliency she showed as a law student and young mother only intensified throughout this time period. Her husband was diagnosed with cancer during their time at law school. Ginsburg organized and

helped to review class notes from his fellow students, completed her own high quality school work, and parented their daughter.

Even though she was the first female member of the prestigious Harvard Law Review, Ginsburg was unable to secure employment in a law firm because of her gender.

In the 2018 documentary “RBG”, Ginsburg quoted her father with a statement defining the time period, “[i]f she wants to be a lawyer, let her try. If she can’t succeed, she has a husband to support her.”

Ginsburg found work as a law professor, eventually gaining tenure.

It was her role as general counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union and co-founder of its Womens Rights Project that first landed her in front of the Supreme Court. She argued six landmark cases in front of the court during the 1970s, including Frontiero v. Richardson . In this Ginsburg represented the ACLU and argued that when military husbands automatically received dependent payments for their wives, females in the military should likewise receive dependent payments for their husbands.

Ginsburg’s mother’s advice of “being a lady” was found in her courtroom persona. As she later advised students, including her own granddaughter Clara, “the way to win an argument is not to yell.” Ginsburg said it became a distraction in the argument and was not a way to decisively make one’s point.

Cohen, J., & West, B. (Directors). (2018). RBG [Motion picture]. United States: Magnolia Pictures.

1

Ruth and Marty Ginsburg. Credit: Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States 16

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Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Reading List. (2020, September 24). Retrieved October 02, 2020, from https://libguides. wlu.edu/c.php?g=601727 2

RUTH BADER GINSBURG When she was under consideration for a seat on the Supreme Court, Ginsburg was viewed by some as too old for the nomination. Ruth was well known for shunning small talk and was very humble. Her husband was also her biggest advocate and began a campaign to increase her profile. He succeeded and she gained an interview with President Clinton who contends she won him over in the first fifteen minutes as they discussed the law.

Aside from her own brilliance and dogged determination, Ginsburg drew strength from the support of her partner and a network of friends. The juxtaposition of domestic duties in the Ginsburg house led to a litany of jokes about the terror of Ruth’s cooking. Her husband famously learned to cook to keep Ruth out of the family kitchen.

Both husband and wife were successful in their own right but Marty Ginsburg championed Ruth in a very different way than many husbands of their era.

While on the bench, Justice Ginsburg was instrumental in the following cases championing gender equality:

• United States v. Virginia in which women gained entry to the historically all-male Virginia Military Institute.

Ginsburg wrote in the majority opinion, “generalizations about ‘the way women are,’ estimates of what is appropriate for most women, no longer justify denying opportunity to women whose talent and capacity place them outside the average description.”

• Obergefell v. Hodges in which same-sex couples were granted the right to marry in 50 states. She wrote “[m]arriage was a relationship of a dominant male to a subordinate female. Would that be a choice that states should [still] be allowed to have?

To cling to marriage the way it once was?”

• Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company where she did not just write in the legalese of a dissenting opinion but simplified the language for public consumption. This read that “each and every pay decision Ledbetter did not properly challenge wiped the slate clean. Never mind the cumulative effect of a series of decisions that together set her pay well below that of every male area manager.” Congress later amended this and the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was signed into law.

When we draw on our own resilience during these difficult times, some may find inspiration in Ruth Bader Ginsburg. May we all learn to embrace what makes each of us notorious and find pride in that characteristic. You may view your own notoriety as mundane but examine the source of your strength. Maybe it is your strong support network, your work ethic, your quick wit, or even your lack of culinary talent. 2020 has been difficult for us all. Turn your own rejections into opportunities and keep doing your best to make a positive impact. RBG described herself as “[s]omeone who used whatever talent she had to do her work to the very best of her ability.

And to help repair tears in her society, to make things a little better through the use of whatever ability she has.

Cause I’ve gotten much more satisfaction for the things that I’ve done for which I was not paid.”

Photograph by Sebastian Kim/The New Yorker article: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, The Great Equalizer

• Shelby County v. Holder in which the 1965 Voting Rights Act was weakened. “ ‘Throwing out preclearance when it has worked and is continuing to work to stop discriminatory changes,’ Ginsburg wrote in a blistering dissent, ‘is like throwing away your umbrella in a rainstorm because you are not getting wet.’”

Webster, E. S., & Wolper, C. (2020, September 19). 8 Ruth Bader Ginsburg Supreme Court Rulings to Know About. Teen Vogue. Retrieved October 2, 2020, from https://www.teenvogue.com/story/ruth-bader-ginsburg-supreme-court-rulings-to-know-about 3

Exclusive Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg interview: Full transcript [Interview by 960631167 747473648 I. Carmon]. (2015, February 17). Retrieved October 2, 2020, from https://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/exclusive-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg-interview-full-transcript-msna531191 4

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BE BOLD. JOIN THE BOARD.

BY BRITTNY MCGRAW

Passionate. Innovative. Brilliant.

Creative. Dedicated.

Those are just some of the ways to describe the more than 400 members of the Junior League of Roanoke Valley. It is those qualities that guide us as we serve our neighbors and work to address the challenges our communities face, and it is those same characteristics, combined with the leadership and training skills that the Junior League provides, that make the women of JLRV highly sought-after to serve on non-profit and corporate boards across the Roanoke Valley.

Lutheria Smith, JLRV Sustaining Director and past president, is currently chairperson of the school board for Roanoke City Public Schools. She also serves on the board for her workplace, Draper Aden Associates, and through the years has served on a number of boards including Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Virginia, Council of Community Services, the South-

west Virginia Workforce Development Board, Apple Ridge Farm, and Susan G. Komen Virginia Blue Ridge.

Smith says board service is a great way to give of your time and talents to an organization or cause you’re passionate about, but she understands taking that first step to join a board can be nerve-racking.

“I remember being nervous and intimidated by my first leadership role, by my first board,” Smith said. “But what you learn is that if you’re doing it from your heart because you want to give back or you want to give to an organization, people will be willing to help you learn and help you grow and help you do what you need to do.”

Cheri Hartman, a JLRV sustaining member who wrapped up her term as president of the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke in September, agrees that it is important to have a passion and commitment for any organization that you are considering joining its board.

Jennifer Crook and her dog

“At a pretty young age, I was just blessed that these opportunities were made available to me and I found a good fit almost everywhere that I got involved,” Hartman said. “I was able to develop new programs, get grants that supported those programs and then was sought out by certain organizations that I thought were a good fit for my skills.”

Hartman’s board service has included the United Way of Roanoke Valley, Council of Community Services, Human Services Advisory Board for the city of Roanoke,

Cheri Hartman and her friend Jackie at the ribbon cutting of new playground, Kiwanis Club of Roanoke 18

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BE BOLD. JOIN THE BOARD. Lutheria Smith at a school board meeting

Lutheria Smith at her swearing in ceremony

and a founding member and past board president of the Roanoke Valley Hope Initiative.

“Whether your talent lies in communication or in the arts or other areas, you look for where it’s a good fit for you,” Hartman said. “People want a dedicated volunteer who has skills and interests in that area.”

The responsibilities of board members can vary from organization to organization. That is why

Anna Muncy, JLRV Nominating Director and a board member for the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce, says it is important to take an honest assessment of the time and energy you can devote to board service.

“It can sometimes be so easy to say ‘Yes’ to every opportunity that comes over your plate, but if you’re serving on five committees in one year, you’re probably not going to be great at any of the five,” Muncy said. “If you’re only on one or two at any given time, you’re going to be a much better member of the board, so absolutely I think you really need to take a look at what’s on your plate.”

Cheri Hartman accepting donation from Don Wilson for Kiwanis Club of Roanoke T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

Jennifer Crook, JLRV Administrative Vice President, says talking with current board members can help you determine if serving on a particular board aligns with your values and lifestyle.

“Every board is a little bit different,” Crook

said. “I think your board members who are currently serving will be honest with you about the time commitment. So if that’s a concern, it’s very easy to have open conversations about that with members who are already on the board.”

Crook currently serves on the board of directors for the West End Center for Youth in Roanoke and Pathfinders for Greenways and is also a past secretary for the Virginia Women Attorneys Association. She says board service has provided opportunities she never would have imagined, including being race director for the West End Center’s virtual Spooky Sprint 5K 2020.

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BE BOLD. JOIN THE BOARD. “I never would have been a director of a 5K race if I hadn’t joined a board,” Crook said. “I never would have anticipated those kinds of opportunities coming from a board position.”

Crook, Muncy, Hartman and Smith all agree: Junior League members can serve on any community or corporate board with confidence because of the topnotch training and leadership development the League provides.

flects the communities they serve.

Anna Muncy as EVP at a JLRV meeting

“You have the benefit of having been a part of an organization whose mission is to train volunteers for effective leadership,” Smith said. “I think one thing League members can do is avail yourselves of the fantastic leadership training the League has.”

that I’ve learned from the Junior League. That’s huge,” Muncy said.

“Doing your homework, reading your materials before the meeting, knowing Robert’s Rules of Order.

Just knowing what the expectation is of a board member to be a good contributor.”

“I think about the preparation for how to be a board member

They say now, more than ever, it is important that board leadership re-

“It’s a gift to have diversity,” Smith said. “It can only make you a better organization to have people from different backgrounds and experiences and opinions. We’re a diverse community. We’re a diverse nation. Why not reflect that in the leadership and governance of organizations?”

They also have no doubt that the women of JLRV are wellequipped to lead the way.

“It’s been my experience to watch the impact of women leaders be especially effective at bringing people together around the table collaboratively,” Hartman said.

“That’s why I think it’s worth that investment of yourself because you can have that kind of influence on making change in our community.”

As a part of the JLRV’s Strategic Plan, leadership has included more training opportunities for all members this year. There are pre-GMM (general membership meeting) trainings from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with guest speakers discussing topics, such as how to be elected to a city council or school board, understanding the finances of a non-profit, and why there is such a need for foster care and adoption in our communities. Check the STAR Express newsletter for more information on these upcoming sessions. Come and learn all about the leadership opportunities within the League and gain a useful skill you can use in your personal or professional life!

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COMMUNITY COMMITTEE CORNER

BY HANNAH HOPKINS

This League year has seen many changes, rapid adjustments, and pivots to new methods and new ideas to adapt to the COVID-19 crisis. We’ve held virtual meetings, cancelled events, and postponed hugs until they are safer. Times are difficult and approaches to the way we are able to impact our community are changing.

The same can be said for our community partners, who are responsible for the day-to-day frontline work that keeps the folks in our community fed, housed, and healthy. The impact on community organizations snapped into focus for us during our Virtual Food Summit in July. Collaboration Committee Co-Chairs Sam Cohen and Tina Dillow pulled together an amazing event that brought together representatives from a wide range of community organizations, including Roanoke Area Ministries (RAM House), 211 Virginia, LEAP, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Roanoke City Libraries, Presbyterian Community Center, and Rescue Mission Ministries, to name a few. This event gave those organizational leaders the opportunity to voice their concerns and talk about how the ways they operate have had to change to accommodate the needs of a community in the midst of a global pandemic.

Some organizations, like RAM House and Roanoke Public Libraries, have seen a significant uptick in the number of people they serve, while others, like Virginia Cooperative Extension, have needed to find entirely different ways to reach their target groups. Many of the organizations present expressed a need for volunteers, as the folks that T H E S TA R M A G A Z I N E

typically serve are often older people who are at greater risk when it comes to contracting COVID, and have thus been staying home. Organizations and programs JLRV members at the Virginia Summit like Presbyterian Community Center, to be included in the JLRV website, RAM House, Roaand are updating food pantry connoke Public Libraries, and Meals On tact information which will allow Wheels have begun to provide their members to volunteer with local orservices in a socially distanced way, ganizations at their leisure. Rememincreasing their needs for PPE and disber, in accordance with current CDC posable containers for food service. recommendations, please make sure Virginia Cooperative Extension and that you wear either surgical masks Roanoke Public Libraries have jumped or improvised face coverings such headfirst into the digital space, creatas scarves, fabric masks, bandanas ing educational videos and providing or handkerchiefs to reduce the risk virtual story time via YouTube to reach of exposure to COVID-19 to yourpeople in the comfort of their homes. self and others while volunteering.

For many of these organizations, a Frequent hand washing or sanitizing common theme was worry about fiis also recommended. You should nancial resources, as the uncertainty maintain 6 feet of distance between of the pandemic impacts the abiliyourself and anyone not in your ty of companies and individuals to household. Each volunteer should make contributions. make their own decision regarding So, what can we in JLRV do to help? the safety of volunteering during this Volunteer shifts in the community time. When you do complete a vollook very different for us now, as we unteer shift, make sure to keep track work to prioritize the safety of memof your hours and email Community bers and the organizations we partCouncil AVP Hannah Hopkins (hanner with. Members of the Communah.c.hopkins@gmail.com) to have nity Council are hard at work finding them logged in Digital Cheetah. opportunities for Junior League Finally, times are tough for everymembers to get involved. Our Serone right now, and stress and anxvice Committee Chair, Madeline Aliff, iety have become an embedded will post new opportunities to Digipart of life since March. Let’s do tal Cheetah and the JLRV Members our best to spread kindness and Facebook page, so be on the lookout love to each other, our communifor those. Our Collaboration Comty partners, and the individuals in mittee is working on developing pubneed in our community. lic facing resources on food security VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 1

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THE SHOW MUST GO ON

ROANOKE ARTS GRAPPLE WITH THE PANDEMIC

BY LAURA CONTE

Though the pandemic has changed life as we know it for everyone, the sense of loss is being felt most acutely by those who so often find sanctuary in art. While the stages have gone dark and the music halls are empty, the hard-working members of Roanoke’s rich and vibrant arts community have pressed forward throughout the pandemic, finding creative ways to offer patrons comfort and connection.

Roanoke can proudly boast about the vibrancy of arts and cultural of-

ferings in our fair Valley with confidence. Prior to the pandemic, an October 2019 study conducted by nonprofit Americans for the Arts and commissioned by the Roanoke Cultural Endowment found that arts and cultural organizations in Roanoke contribute an estimated $64 million annually to the local economy. This includes the Mill Mountain Theatre, Opera Roanoke, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, the Historical Society of Western Virginia--made up of the History Museum and the O. Winston Link Museum and the Taubman Muse-

um of Art, which is the only museum in Southwest Virginia that offers free general admission.

March’s shutdown was a learning curve that forced arts organizations to adapt to an ever-changing virtual atmosphere while remaining hopeful that the shutdown would be shortlived. Ginger Poole Avis, Artistic Director at Mill Mountain Theatre (and past president of the JLRV), said the theatre shut down two weeks into rehearsals for Dreamgirls. While they all hoped that Dreamgirls would be the only casualty of the pandemic,

The O. Winston Link Museum

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The Trinkle Main Stage at Mill Mountain Theatre

MMT’s Education team also immediately pivoted from in-person spring classes to offer a virtual curriculum.

They also formed a task force with members of the Theatre Board and artistic and business development staff to develop a plan.

Cyrus Pace, Executive Director of the Jefferson Center, said the building itself never closed because it houses offices that are utilized by a variety of other organizations, including the Junior League of the Roanoke Valley, but they ramped up their cleaning regimens, including a special machine purchased with help from a grant that vaporizes the cleansers.

Rolling tour cancellations driven by artists, combined with social distancing regulations made it clear that the performance spaces including the Shaftman Performance Hall would be empty for longer.

With state mandated restrictions on public gatherings taking effect, many had to close their doors and find creative ways to produce virtual, mission-driven content for the commu-

nity and their supporters with limited resources while keeping an eye on the bottom line and contemplating long-term sustainability.

“We’re trying to do as much digital engagement as we can with limited time and staff,”, said Ashley Webb, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions at the Historical Society of Western Virginia.

The Historical Society’s new virtual initiatives include lifelong learning programs hosted through YouTube that offer lessons on the history of the Roanoke Valley. Developing digital content is the way of the future, and The Music Lab at the Jefferson Center is operating virtually as well to continue to serve its students. Mill Mountain Theatre has created a podcast called Meet Me at Mill Mountain that has already reached listeners across the United States and internationally. Avis believes that even once the

“New Study finds $64 million economic impact of arts in Roanoke” Mike Allen, Roanoke Times, October 10, 2019 1

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pandemic has ended, MMT will continue to offer digital content because it has allowed them to reach new audiences that otherwise they would not have considered possible.

MMT is not the only Roanoke Arts organization excited about their new outreach programs. Webb shares that the pandemic closures have given her an opportunity to digitize the History Museum’s collection, which will allow them to curate full virtual exhibitions featuring objects from their permanent collection. Though the pandemic certainly threw the Roanoke arts community a curveball, thanks to innovation and quick thinking the future of the arts in the Star City is brighter than ever.

The Music Lab at the Jefferson Center VO UM | U NM UM VO L UL M E E5 6| N B EBRE R2 1

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NEW MEMBER

Kick-Off

BY BRADY WOOLWINE

The fall season for the League means two things: New Members are in full force and the Stocked Market is right around the corner!

This fall looked a little different, however. Instead of galivanting downtown participating in scavenger hunts, the New Members met virtually via Zoom. Like everything else, COVID required the Recruitment Committee to be creative.

They organized three virtual recruitment events, which included two formal education sessions and a casual happy hour. Hailey Feldman, New Member Committee, is continually surprised by how well our 22 New Membershave adapted to the ever-changing circumstances of this year. “This year’s

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New Members committed themselves to the JLRV, purely based upon their understanding of what the JLRV can and would like to accomplish in our community. They have already begun to express innovative ideas and are looking for ways to foster a sense of belonging while protecting the health and safety of the League and our community.”

Despite uncertainties surrounding many aspects of this year, the new member kick-off was quite a success! The approximately 2-hour event was attended by the majority of the new members, the new member committee and various board members, including Jenna Zibton, Jessie Coffman, Kate Hailey, and Katie Jones. As with pri-

or years, the purpose of the event was to provide education about the history and goals of the Junior League, as well as the integration of new members into the organization. The agenda included introductions, a group wide ice-breaker, a review of the history of AJLI/ JLRV, a game of trivia, review of the accomplishments of the JLRV, the JLRV’s mission/goals, and a discussion of the requirements for all new members. The icebreaker was meant to reveal similarities, despite everyone’s diverse backgrounds and interests. The interactive nature proved that despite the challenges of a virtual setting, it is possible to build a sense of community and foster friendships. Bryn Turner said it best, “I think having a virtual year provides opportunities in the League for busy women who are trying to balance it all.” We are so fortunate to live in a community that is so supportive of the League and our mission. While the mode of delivery for this year’s event was different, the objectives remain the same. The League is dedicated to building a stronger, more resilient new member class than ever before!

COOKBOOK CORNER

Ultimate Breakfast Strata

BY AMANDA HENSLEY

Since I grew up in Augusta and have attended the Master’s many times, I could not allow this November to go by and not pay homage, since the tournament was rescheduled for this month due to the pandemic. Every year, we would get up early, eat a hearty breakfast, and head out to the course to watch our favorite players. This breakfast dish is great around the holidays and wonderful for entertaining!

Recipe and photo provided by Tea Time at the Masters, from the Junior League of Augusta, Georgia”

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

•

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

•

9 eggs

seeded, and thinly sliced

•

10 oz breakfast sausage patties

•

3 cups milk

•

2 cups shredded fontina cheese

•

6 to 8 slices French bread, cut into • 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups) •

½ cup chopped green onions

•

Salt and pepper to taste

2 roasted bell peppers, peeled,

•

1 cup shredded fontina cheese

DIRECTIONS: 1.

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and fry until cooked through, turning occasionally. Remove to paper towels to drain. Let cool and cut into thin slices.

2.

Combine the cooked sausage and bread cubes in a large bowl.

Whisk the eggs and milk in a bowl. Pour over the bread and

sausage. Add the green onions, asparagus, roasted bell peppers and 2 cups cheese. Season with salt and pepper and stir to mix.

Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Bring to room temperature.

3.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the strata for 1

hour or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the top. Bake for 1 minute longer or until the cheese melts.

Remove to a wire rack and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

4.

Serves 8.

Photo credit: The Novice Chef

Coquito

Who wouldn’t want a spin on Egg Nog for the holidays? Try this traditional Puerto Rican recipe with a little coconut and raisin to elevate your spirit!

INGREDIENTS: •

4 oz raisins

•

1 1/2 cups dark rum

•

2 cinnamon sticks

•

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

•

1 (15 oz) can cream

of coconut (Coco Lopez)

•

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

•

1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk

•

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

•

4 oz evaporated milk

•

•

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

4 tablespoons shredded coconut, optional

DIRECTIONS: 1.

In a large pitcher with a lid (or two large jars with lids - this will make about 56 oz of liquid) add raisins, dark rum and cinnamon sticks. Let sit for 1 hour.

2.

In a blender, puree all the other ingredients.

Pour into the bottle and shake well to combine with rum/raisins mixture.

3.

Chill for at least 4 hours and store in airtight container in refrigerator for up a month.

4.

You have to shake vigorously before pouring.

RECIPE NOTE: cream of coconut is commonly made by Goya or Coco Lopez. It is a very thick, sweetened coconut milk with chunks of shredded coconut in it. This is not the same as coconut cream that only has coconut listed on the ingredients.

If you are interested in purchasing the Junior League of Roanoke Valley’s “Oh My STARS!” cookbook, please call the JLRV office at 540-343-3663

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MEMBERS MOVING The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way membership did business, from attending conferences and summits to socializing and recruitment. But, it did not deter members from enjoying nature that surrounds the Roanoke Valley. Over the past few months, the JLRV ladies hiked trails, climbed mountains, visited landmarks, kayaked, and spent time with family and friends in the great outdoors.

Bryn McDaniel and friend Jessica in Colorado

Meredith Thompson with son Graham on top of Mill Mountain

Conner Gibbs at Falling Spring Falls

Alex Michalukand puppy at McAfee Knob

Cristina Agee and son at Jeter Farm

Jessica Tims and husband on Virginia Creeper Trail

Laure Conte at Apple Orchard Falls

Kate Hailey and familiy at Roaring Run 26

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

Katie Jones and children on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

MEMBERS MOVING Meg Griffith and children at the Natural Bridge

Margaret Ashburn on the James River

Michelle Pendleton and family at the Cascades

Sarah M. Johnson and Katherine Coker playing tennis

Shannon Shaffer and partner Ed at Amphitheater Lake, Grand Tetons, Wyoming

Sarah Johnson and husband applepicking at Doe Creek Farm

Stephanie Force, Elizabeth Milne, Sara Hill, and friends at Carvin’s Cove

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

Taylor Irish at McAfee Knob

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OUT OF THE MAILBOX Jr. es at u g a olle nna, and c e J s r d a n De y frie all m o t f e of n g t h a ff . i Hats ! t r o p st e r sup for our o Leagu f h eals muc s so b ’s m ff e re n c e . k u l n a C Th di ah ando making a n e h S r ks fo Than ly, Fond

Nancy

ee ell Ag w o H y CEO Nanc t and n e d i Pres ic n Clin o i l i r a C

Dear

JLRV,

I wou ld thank like to tak e y Roan ou for you a momen t oke R r con egion tinue to person d a l m C We n embe ally hamb ever t rship e r . ake f with your or gra inves nted tmen and i that y t, a mpro ou tru ve bu s it helps regio st us siness us pr n’s bu with o mote by str siness , e s n t clima g i m t Your h ulate ening te.

Ch our invalu amber rem ab ains c influe le referra ls and ommitted ncing to pro c p We b viding elieve ublic polic onnection s y th busin and ess an at if some to benefit al thing d the regio n, It’s impa l businesse g cts yo Our B rowth and s. ur usine succe Stay s s s too ss of afe & . our stron g. We appre ciate you.

Joyce

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JLRV’S 2020-2021

Calendar of Events Nov 3

New Member Meeting

Jan 2

Nov 10

General Membership Meeting Jan 19

April 6 New Member Meeting

New Member Meeting

General Membership Meeting April 20 General Membership Meeting

Nov 13-15 Stocked Market Weekend

Feb 2

May 4

Dec 1

New Member Meeting

Feb 16 General Membership Meeting May 18 Annual Celebration

Dec 11

Social Event

March 2 New Member Meeting

New Member Meeting

New Member Meeting

March 16 General Membership Meeting

WEDDINGS

COUPLES

FAMILIES

SENIORS

FAMILYTREEPHOTOGRAPHYVA.COM

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VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 1

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THE

STAR

Non-Profit Non-Profit Org. US Postage US Postage PAID PAID Permit No. 870 Permit No. 870 Lynchburg, VA Lynchburg, VA

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

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