The Junior League
Annual Report
of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc.
or what is done or learned by one “F class of women becomes, by virtue of their common womanhood, the property of all women.� -Elizabeth Blackwell The first woman to become a physician in the U.S.
2008-2009 League Year
Invitation
If you are a dreamer, come in, If you are a dreamer, a wisher, a liar, A hope-er, a pray-er, a magic bean buyer... If you’re a pretender, come sit by my fire For we have some flax-golden tales to spin. Come in! Come in!
-Shel Siverstein “Where The Sidewalk Ends”
If you are reading this message, then you are most likely a Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. member, community partner, generous supporter or a friend or relative of a JLNVB member. Some of you may fit into several of these categories! Whatever your connection to the JLNVB may be, I hope you will enjoy reading this summary of the activities in which the members of the JLNVB have been engaged during the course of the 2008-2009 League year. Each person who has made an investment in the JLNVB, whether through the contribution of volunteer time, funding, or both, has been an integral part of the successes we celebrate today. Speaking of success, ours is measured in several ways: adherence to our mission and vision, critical collaborations with the community around us, increased public awareness of the JLNVB and strong organizational stewardship. As you read this report, I hope you gain an enhanced perspective of what JLNVB members and our partners have done to realize the preceding benchmarks this year. The JLNVB has been a positive force in our community for over eighty years, and it is an honor to be part of continuing that tradition. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish to thank each of you for what you have meant to the JLNVB this year. Thanks to your efforts, the JLNVB has indeed created, thrived and changed.
Sincerely, Cinda C. Ayers 2008-2009 President The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc.
Mission: Possible!
1
MISSION POSSIBLE: EVALUATING PROGRESS ON OUR STRATEGIC PLAN The 2006 – 2007 JLNVB Board of Directors developed the “Mission Possible 2010” strategic plan to serve as a roadmap to achieve our administrative, communication, community, finance and membership goals, which all support our mission. ADMINISTRATIVE GOAL To provide effective administrative support for JL activities and manage all aspects of the headquarters location. COMMUNICATION GOAL To improve and enhance internal communication, to develop and implement tools as well as strategies for external communication and to raise the profile of the League in the community. COMMUNITY GOAL To identify needs in the community and based on those needs develop, implement and measure meaningful programs under the framework of our signature project / issue as well as DIADs to benefit children and women in S. Hampton Roads. FINANCE GOAL To enable the League to have a means to carry out its mission and realize its vision as well as to meet and exceed its goals while at the same time ensuring the short and longterm financial health of the League. MEMBERSHIP GOAL To foster a positive environment to recruit and retain members as well as train them to become lifelong leaders and make valuable contributions in the community.
As we approach 2010, we are evaluating how the Junior League is progressing along its strategic plan. At the start of the year, we met with each Council Vice President to identify measurable objectives for the 2008 – 2009 year. In October, more than 70 members participated in an online survey with a variety of questions related to each of the goals in the strategic plan. Key findings included: • Members overwhelmingly agreed that the Junior League adheres to its mission and that the mission resonates with them • Members want to contribute to the Junior League’s mission by volunteering in the community, particularly at Done in a Day events • Almost all survey participants said that they would encourage a friend or family member to join the Junior League We conducted three focus groups throughout March to delve deeper and identify areas to explore in future quantitative research. Provisionals, Actives and Sustainers provided valuable input that will be compiled to help adjust our strategic plan for 2009 – 2010.
Mission The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. 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. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
2
Our Impact
3
The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. annually focuses its support on a variety of community projects, committing financial support and hundreds of volunteer hours in an effort to fulfill our mission of improving the community through action. Every year, the Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach raises and invests over $50,000 in our community through League-sponsored community projects, Kids in the Kitchen events, and Community Response Fund grants. Many activities are currently underway in Hampton Roads to prevent or reduce childhood obesity, but more work needs to be done. Beginning in June 2008, the JLNVB began dedicating its community projects to improving the health of Hampton Roads’ children by inspiring parents and children to make healthy eating and exercise a regular part of their lives. Over the next three years, the Healthy Kids Initiative will help expand existing programs to develop the diets, bodies and minds of children through multiple projects and Done-in-a-Day events. In order to accomplish this goal, the League has partnered with many worthwhile agencies to address childhood health at its root. To kick off our signature issue, we committed $10,000 to the CHKD Virginia Beach Surgery Center’s capital campaign as our legacy project and provided volunteer support for their open house.
New Partnerships
WAVY 10 Operation School Supplies We were one of three partners this year to help collect school supplies from 25 drop-off sites and participated in four ‘Stuff the Bus’ events. School supplies are donated to local schools in Hampton Roads. We hosted a Health Day for the clients of CHIP Healthy Families of Chesapeake at the Norfolk Zoo. Parents attended a presentation on eating healthy on a
budget and the children participated in various exercise activities. The mission of CHIP/ Healthy Families is to promote the health, education and well-being of Chesapeake children, ages 0 through 6, by connecting them to medical and community services and providing parenting support through intensive home visitations. Our goals to improve the health of children, reduce child abuse and neglect, and prepare children for school readiness are critical to the development of children and the strength of our community.
The JLNVB assisted in FoodBank’s Kid’s Cafe program and facilitated “Energize with Exercise” lesson at four locations. JL also purchased 2,000 jump ropes: one for each child served by the Kid’s Café program.
Girls on the Run is a nationally successful life-changing character development program. The local 12-week non-competitive program combines physical activity (running/walking) and experiential learning through a nationally recognized psychologybased curriculum. At the end of the 12-week program, all local girls join together to participate in a 5K event. JL provided volunteer support for the Girls on the Run race on November 22. In the spring, we sponsored a middle school team and providing running attire for students that are unable to afford these items. CHKD Pediatric Healthy You Weight Management Program
We have provided scholarship funding and are launching a 10-week mentoring program with elementary and middle school aged students beginning in February. Healthy You is the only program of its kind in Hampton Roads and offers an approach to better living that incorporates diet, exercise, and psychosocial intervention. Mentoring these children will be challenging. Some of them still do not want to admit that they are not in control of their weight problem. Our League mentors, however, will be making a direct impact on a child’s decision to improve their life. In over 40 states from coast to coast, thousands of cyclists will be pedaling to fight against diabetes with the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure. JLNVB provided volunteer support at the finish line & manned a JLNVB sponsored rest stop. In the Wellness Village at the event, Community, Membership & Golf Committees worked collaboratively to disseminate information about Junior League. In April, JLNVB volunteers were represented in Norfolk & Virginia Beach at various informational booths interacting with local children and families as part of the YMCA Healthy Kids Day. This program focuses on how fitness can be fun and introduces kids to an array of YMCA programs that teach them healthy behaviors.
4
In The Community
5
Kids In The Kitchen In its third year, our Kids in the Kitchen event was hosted at the Mt. Trashmore YMCA on March 28th from 9 am-1 pm. Students visited over twenty exercise and nutrition stations; participated in special classes and aquatic events; and were entered to win various raffle prizes. This event was free and open to the public and attracted over 200 attendees. Almost three hundred kids from across Virginia Beach show up wearing their gym shoes for the third annual Junior Leagues’ Kids in the Kitchen health and fitness expo. The event, designed to get your mind and body pumping, was held at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads in Virginia Beach on Saturday, March 28, 2009. The Kids in the Kitchen initiative is to bring awareness to the issues surrounding childhood obesity and poor nutrition. For one day the YMCA facility was transformed into an interactive and educational hub where kids could learn about fun fitness activities that don’t break your bank account and the basics of forming healthy eating habits. The Kids in the Kitchen Committee Chairwoman Melissa Polizos spearhead the event and says that its planning began last September, “Everyone worked so hard to pull everything together and the end result was just fantastic! I could see it in the kids’ faces; they were having fun and learning that fitness can be fun, and that alone is reason enough to do this.” Polizos says the Kids in the Kitchen programs provide children with the necessary tools for staying active and making nutritious eating choices. Children were greeted at the door with a Passport and gym bag with instructions to visit all 20 stations. Along one corridor was a station that taught you how to read a nutrition label. There was another booth that gave you a closer look at the government’s pyramid on the five food groups. Each of the Junior Leagues’ community partners had a booth that highlighted a unique approach to exercise or nutrition. Also the Junior League Provisional class set up a booth that gave tips on how “Going Green” can be both healthy and economical. At every station, the children received a punch on their Passport for completing the activity or taking part in a short lesson.
YMCA VP of Development Mita Vail, who is also a Junior League Sustainer, says the YMCA’s partnership with the League is a natural alliance, “We both want to reach deep into the community and give families the power to take hold of the process to live a better, longer, and healthier life.” Vail’s face lit up as she continued to say, “Take a look around. This is fabulous; the energy is contagious.” In the gymnasium a DJ was playing different beats that flowed throughout the entire room. Next to him was a station that demonstrated CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. There was a Nintendo Wii station where kids eagerly waited in line for a chance to box their digital contender. And for kids wanting a physical challenge there was an elaborate obstacle course that took them through a journey of leaping over various obstructions, bouncing and rolling on to padded mats, swinging from a rope, and finally crawling through a tunnel to reach the course finish line. Junior League Provisional member Dawn McCloud was in charge of the hula hoop station. McCloud is an avid competitor in marathons and triathlons and says her active lifestyle began in her youth, “I hear the statistics and I see that child obesity continues to rise. It’s so important to reach kids at a young age so they begin those healthy habits early and they take it with them throughout their life.” Junior League President Cinda Ayers and her two year old daughter Taryn Margaret stopped by the expo. Ayers says, “This is truly a magnificent event and it ties in with the National Kids in the Kitchen initiative.” The League President says the initiative was first launched in 2006 by the Association of Junior Leagues International where its global network conducted awareness activities in over 225 communities. The League’s Committee Chair says that for the past two years the local Kids in the Kitchen initiative was conducted as an after school program, “This is the first year we opened it up to the general public. We invited nine area elementary and middle schools to participate, each year the numbers grow.” Polizos says she expects next year’s event to get bigger and better and “grab the public’s attention.” She says, “We’ll continue to illustrate the power of volunteerism by making a real difference on a grassroots level.” Saturday’s event was one of the Kids in the Kitchen’s many ongoing health and fitness activities happening throughout the year.
6
7
To date nationally, media coverage has reached over 120 million people with messages about the issues surrounding childhood obesity and the Junior League’s initiative to address these. Kids in the Kitchen addresses a growing problem facing today’s children. Since the early 1970s the number of overweight children in our countries has increased dramatically, substantially increasing children’s risks for health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Community Projects
Throughout this League year we have fostered existing relationships by participating in the United Way Day of Caring with the Norfolk Senior Center; sponsoring the Excellence Girls’ Club Career Fair; and conducting a Holiday Toy Drive for the clients of ForKids (collecting over $975 in toys and gift cards as well as providing 20 volunteer hours for the holiday shop). In the spring, we helped renovate the Ronald McDonald House dining room, painted Suffolk House and hosted two baby supply drives for ForKids. Our Public Advocacy committee is developing a Community Partner Network comprised of influential leaders in education, health care and government. This network will help our League determine how to best support community agencies and publicize the mission of our League. Currently we have 35 committed members and we hosted a formation meeting in February. This year the Community Response Fund Committee reviewed a record 58 applications and 10 organizations were chosen for a total of over $8,000.00 in grants. The organizations are Cancer Care Foundation of Tidewater, The Elijah Foundation, ForKids, Girl Scout Council of Colonial Coast, Lee’s Friends, New Beginnings Development Services, St. Columba Ecumenical Ministries, Tidewater Arts Outreach, The Up Center- Department of Children and Family, and Virginia Beach Court Appointed Special Advocates. During the 2008-2009 League year, we have given over $19,000 to the community and completed over 1,000 volunteer hours.
Past Projects For over 80 years the JLNVB has helped hone the hearts and minds of women in our community providing them with training, leadership skills, and the opportunities to make a difference in the lives of citizens throughout South Hampton Roads. These women have gone on to volunteer and lead in every non-profit area from the arts to education to a myriad of social welfare and human service causes. One would be hard pressed to find a non-profit organization in any of these areas not touched in a positive way by a League member. Our legacy to the community is our members.
Excellence Girls’ Club, Incorporated www.excellencegirlsclub.org
The mission of Excellence Girls’ Club Inc. (EGC) is to empower young women by exposing them to positive experiences while developing leadership skills that will enhance their ability to become future leaders in the community. JLNVB supported Excellence Girls’ Club weekly educational sessions, an annual bonding retreat, mother/daughter sessions and field trips, book discussions, and community service projects. Our legacy to Excellence Girls’ Club was the development and funding of a website to support their organization. We continue to work with EGC hosting their annual Career Fair and members from both organizations work together to support Kids In the Kitchen.
Edmarc www.edmarc.org The mission of Edmarc Hospice for Children is to ease
the trauma of a child’s illness or death and to reduce the disabling effects of pediatric illness, loss and bereavement on families. Edmarc was founded in 1978 by a Suffolk Presbyterian minister, Edward Page, and a young boy in his congregation, Marcus Hogge who were both dying from terminal illnesses. Rather than let their tragedies defeat them, the two families joined together to create something positive--and Edmarc was the result.
F.O.R.kids, Inc. www.homesforkids.org This five step program based in Norfolk, VA was designed to help homeless families gain permanent independence and generational stability for their children. The JLVNB has committed to three years of a close partnership with F.O.R.kids, Inc. and their dedicated staff to aid them in this successful and rewarding program. Check out their web site!
8
9
The Virginia Zoo Project www.virginiazoo.org The JLNVB donated
$60,000 to the Virginia Zoological Park for the construction of an Educational Center that is now the focal point of their educational programs. Other contributions included thousands of volunteer hours and the creation of a docent-training manual.
Growing Up Great Since 1992, the JLNVB has hosted immunization fairs, distributed over 30,000 to the Healthy Beginning books, 300,000 brochures, conducted parenting seminars, established a telephone information system, and developed public service announcements and television specials. WAVY-TV Operation School Supplies School supplies were collected from
all area Farm Fresh locations, Langley Federal Credit Union branches, select Jackson Hewitt locations, and at the WAVY-TV 10 studio. Items were also collected during the “Stuff The Bus” events, where JLNVB members helped collect items brought by WAVY-10 viewers to “stuff” a school bus with school supply donations. Thousands of children in the Hampton Roads area received items to help them have a successful school year.
Career Closet JLNVB members collected clothing to provide underprivileged
women with business attire. This program aids women by preparing them for successful career interviews, building confidence and helping them to transcend their challenges of poverty, single motherhood, and lack of education.
Park Place School Aided the school with the purchase of computers and projectors to assist with an academic intervention program for academically at-risk, lowincome elementary students. Cerebral Palsy of Virginia Aided the organization with providing children
and adults with disabilities a summer enrichment program of social recreation activities such as field trips to museums which encourage inclusion in our community.
Virginia Symphony Orchestra Contributed to presenting “Music in the Schools“ program. A music enrichment education program to selected Norfolk schools
to provide the predominately African American students in-depth exposure to classical musical instruments.
Be a Reader (BEAR) Literacy Program of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater Aided with the purchase of books/supplies for young children participating in this program to improve their reading skills in grades 1-3 in Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach schools.
The Frances C. McIntyre Education Foundation Provided materi-
als for emergency Ready-Packs containing supplies like diapers, baby bottles, food, and formula for children three years and under removed from unsafe environments by Norfolk’s Child Protective Services.
Other Past Projects
Other past projects include Touch Tanks at the Virginia Aquarium, the PALS Project at ODU, the d’Art Center, the Chrysler Museum, the American Red Cross, the St. Mary’s Home for Disabled Children, and many more.
10
11
CHKD Virginia Beach Health and Surgery Center In recognition of JLNVB’s $10,000 capital campaign donation, a radiology room at the CHKD Virginia Beach Health and Surgery Center has been named in our honor. CHKD celebrates a new Virginia Beach Health Center with a blow-out bash! Kids of all ages gathered for what seemed like a childhood wonderland. Under a cloud-covered sky, kids had colorful characters painted on their cheeks. There were steamy hot pretzels to eat and an array of other wholesome treats. The Corporate Woods Drive Band, a local youth group, played rock-n-roll tunes that proved to be an instant sensation. Zumba, a type of Latin dance, was performed along with other presentations of Karate and boxing; it was a workout just watching them. Even a marching band strutted by with their steady tread and corresponding beats. This wonderland was actually a kick-off celebration for the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters’ brand new $21.6 million Health and Surgery Center located in Virginia Beach on Concert Drive. On Saturday, October 25, the public was invited to take a backstage tour of the Beach’s first ambulatory surgery center built exclusively for children. Several Junior League members and CHKD supporters showed up to help facilitate the event and watch months of planning play out before their eyes. When a slight drizzle fell from the sky, little was affected but some people sought refuge under a large white tent and got to visit educational displays, chat with health experts or munch on a nutritious snack. Other party goers strolled to CHKD’s grand building adorned with a large canvas of windows that seemed to disappear up into the sky. Inside it had colorful tile on the floor and brightly painted walls. And within each room a new surprise opened up. Kids were getting their finger casted, or exploring the Virginia Marine Science touch tank and the Safari bug display. They visited the surgery suite for some Slurpee samples and recorded their voices to enter a singing contest. Christina Anderson came to CHKD’s open house party with her four boys since they live right down the street. They’ve called Virginia Beach their home for the past eleven years. Christina says she can see the Center’s appeal, “My oldest boy goes to Landstown High School so it’s definitely convenient.” And for eleven years Christina has driven her boys back and forth to Portsmouth every time one of them needs medical attention or a regular check-up. And with four active boys she says, “The drive can really eat up my gas money.”
Community Impact Award This year Mara Vorachek- Warren was chosen for the Community Impact Award. Mara has played an integral part in the project development of Healthy Kids Initiative. Namely, she has organized projects with American Diabetes Association and Girls on the Run. Mara was recently asked to be a part of next year’s Girls on the Run race committee.
12
Mara has been vital part of JLNVB’s Community Committees over recent years to include involvement with Excellence Girls Club. She is always ready to tackle a new project. A natural leader, she rises to the occasion, whether it is beginning a new community project, working on the logistics of an existing project or providing feedback from completed project. No task is too small. Mara is never asked, when she sees a need she volunteers. We are excited to have Mara serving as the Signature Issue co-chair next year. Mara earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas, then went on to earn a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Duke University. She teaches AP Biology at Norfolk Academy, where she also coaches softball. She sings in the Opera and performed in Virginia Opera’s productions of Puccini’s Tosca and Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Amazingly, for the latter, she learned to sing in Russian, which is no small feat. Mara is from North Dakota, but now lives in Norfolk with her husband, Trey, and their 2 dogs Abby, a Beagle, and Kasey, a German Shepherd. Congratulations Mara!
Mara Voachek-Warren 2008-2009 Recipient Community Impact Award
Provisional Update
13
The 2008-2009 Provisional Class experienced an outstanding year of community service, learning about the Junior League, and forging new relationships. The year began with a full-day Provisional Retreat hosted at the new FOR Kids location, one of our longstanding community partners. Cinda Ayers, President; Connie Hedrick, Treasurer; and Melissa Steadman, Membership Vice President were some of our speakers introducing the new class to the Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach. The year continued with monthly Provisional Meetings at the Ronald McDonald House covering the functions of the League, placement and training opportunities, and team building. The Provisional Class participated in four Done-in-a-Day events throughout the year. The first was in October at the Town Point Park Wine Festival where the Provisionals worked at the beverage tent in support of Fest Events. To share their holiday spirit and in support of providing their house for our Provisional Meetings, the Provisionals partnered with the Ronald McDonald House to host and entertain resident families at their December Holiday Party. In January, the Provisionals planned the annual Provisional Class Blood Drive held at Pembroke Mall. The Blood Drive was the most successful in JLNVB history receiving over 100 pints of blood, enough to save over 300 lives. To wrap up the year, the Provisional Class sponsored the “Going Green� activity booth at Kids in the Kitchen to teach fitness with items available around the house. In addition to their Provisional Class projects, this class was the first to be placed on Finance Council committees throughout the year. Countless hours were spent supporting the Shopping Event, the Gala, the Golf Tournament, and Ways and Means. These efforts provided valuable workhours to these committees and gave the Provisionals firsthand opportunities to interact with Active members and learn League operations. The Provisional Class also made time for social events along the way. In the Fall, the Provisional Class and Transfers enjoyed a wine and dessert social at the Taylor-Whittle House. They rang in the New Year with a relaxed gathering at the Gordon Biersch restaurant at Virginia Beach Town Center. At the April General Membership Meeting, the Active members welcomed 24 Provisionals to the JLNVB by voting them in as Active members. We look forward to the
leadership, skills, and talents they will bring to the League and the community in the years to come. Our Provisional Leadership team - Provisional Advisors Brenda Christy and Mary Beth Charon and Admissions Coordinator Laura Bangor - supported them all the way, and we offer great thanks for their support.
14
Provisional of the Year Extremely enthusiastic, professional, dedicate, friendly, exemplary Junior Leaguer. When asked by Junior League members to describe this year’s Provisional of the Year, these were just some of the adjectives we heard over and over again. Beatrice “Bea” Clendenin was chosen as this year’s award recipient not just for her hard work and dedication she put into multiple JLNVB projects, but for how she also went about doing them. “I watched Bea go after new cookbook accounts with vigor. She did the best of getting new accounts for us because she gets the vendors excited about JLNVB,” shared one member. She did the same for the Provisional blood drive, not only recruiting sponsors but took on even more calls after her responsibilities were complete. Her positive attitude, dedication to learning about the League, and professionalism has made her a role model to all JLNVB members. With these attributes and dedication to leadership and voluntarism, we are extremely honored to name Beatrice Clendenin the 2009 Provisional of the Year. Congratulations Bea!
Beatrice “Bea” Clendenin 2008-2009 Provisional of the Year
Provisional Class
15
Emily Budlong
Beatrice Clendinin
Annie Coombes
Brittany Herring
Rachel Smith
Kim Walker
Tara Welch
Jonida Hendricks
Katherine Gribble
Ashley Mason
Dawn McCloud
Abigail Richer
16 Heather Johnson
Angela Jones
Theo Kleinschnittger
Michelle Smith
Doris Salem
Allison Templeton
Jessica Chen
Marci Ellis
Leah Roberts
Jenny Skahen
Sarah Snow
Lee Van de Water
Surf ’s Up
17
The Junior League of Norfolk – Virginia Beach, Inc. has decided to participate in the Junior League Surf Challenge to reap all the benefits it has to offer! As part of the new AJLI.org website launch, AJLI has announced an official challenge to get as many League members enrolled for the new site as possible. The Junior League Surf Challenge is a contest that will encourage all AJLI members to join the website and increase web exposure. You can access www.ajli.org on the members’ only section of our website. The contest is running through June 15, 2009. We will be competing against all 292 Leagues, and the three Leagues with the most effective enrollment drive, in each of three categories, wins a $500 stipend, courtesy of Digital Cheetah, the firm that developed the news site. Winners will also be featured in a cover story in the summer 2009 issue of Connected. AJLI will measure participating Leagues’ enrollment numbers over the web reporting period from February 1 – June 15, and the League that has the most effective enrollment in each of the three categories wins. The categories are: 1.
The largest % change
2.
The largest number League members enrolled on the site
3.
The highest % total League members enrolled So JLNVB, let’s go surfing!
About the new AJLI.org: The new AJLI.org was designed from the ground up to network and engage the entire Association, whether you are a League President, Communications Chair, Sustainer or Active member. The goal of the redesign was to facilitate greater dialogue among Leagues and between League members and the Association. Each League now has its own page to advertise and archive current and past commu¬nity projects, fundraisers, newsletters, awards, and much more. Additionally each League will have the ability to host an internal blog addressed to its members, and pictures and videos you upload to your League pages will have an option to feed directly to the Members homepage.
Achieve A Richer Culture...
18
“If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of
human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse gift will find a fitting place.” -Margaret Mead
Conferences for 2008-2009 were fabulous, and followed the theme Create Thrive Change. The quality of the training continues to exceed our expectations. Fall Leadership, Winter Leadership and Annual Conference were attended by League representatives including Cinda Ayers, President, and Dawn Provost, President-elect, and Kimberly Thompson, Incoming President-elect. Traditional sessions such as Strategic Leadership, Exploring Community Leadership and Servant Leadership were offered. Then there were sessions more pertinent to the current environment, such as Leading in Economic Times, and Model Programs: Programs that Engage Members. The AJLI Conferences continue to be great investments for today and tomorrow’s JLNVB leaders. The Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI) has partnered with Global Business Network to conduct scenario planning for the organization. GBN led several sessions at AJLI conferences to gather information and to involve League representatives about the various directions Leagues and AJLI can take to fulfill its mission. The first rollout is an improvement in AJLI’s vision statement. Existing Vision Statement
Through the power of our association, Junior Leagues strengthen communities by embracing diverse perspectives, building partnerships and inspiring shared solutions. New Vision Statement
The Junior League: Women around the world as catalysts for lasting community change. We are pleased to embrace the new vision statement as it recognizes that our individual League is part of something bigger . . . and part of something lasting!
Communications
19
The Communication Council has been working very hard this year to break new ground. This year we partnered with several media outlets and received great exposure in the community. Channel 13, WVEC – TV, the ABC affiliate was our major media partner for our gala, Oscar Night® America, “Hollywood Meets Hampton Roads”. Cinda Ayers and Jessica (Wilburn) Antel were featured on “Dialougue”, WVEC’s community Affairs program and “night of” coverage was provided. They also provided technical support for the live feed viewing of the Oscars. We will be working toward a more encompassed partnership with WVEC in the 2009 – 2010 league year. CW27 partnered with the League to bring awareness to the event through a series of TV ads which ran right up until the event. What’s more, they gave us a booth at the CW27 Health & Fitness Expo. We were on hand to promote the Oscar Night® America event as well as Healthy Kids Initiative. Amy Talley of Gold’s Gym in Ghent teamed up with us on this for fitness demonstrations during the expo. Party-goers were greeted on the red carpet by the CW “It Girl” Jenn Naigel. The Virginian – Pilot covered both the gala and Kids in the Kitchen with great stories in the Beacon. Members interviewed for those stories included: Cinda Ayers, Jessica (Wilburn) Antel, Melissa Polizos, Cara Dibbs, and Jenn Morelen. Susan Mayo, our Marquee Honoree was on hand to answers some questions for the story as well as local fashion expert Kim Wadsworth, editor of SKIRT! Magazine. Tidewater Women featured the gala in the February edition and SKIRT! Magazine featured Susan Mayo in March.
I Must Speak!
“Do you not know that I am a woman? When I think, I must speak!” -William Shakespeare As You Like It
Each year “Inside Business” selects the best young business people involved in helping the community in Hampton Roads. This year four women of the Junior League were recognized by Inside Business as “Top 40 Under 40”. Those that were recognized included: • Brooks Lively - (Treasurer - Elect) Owner, Carrot Top Clothes • Emily Spruill - (Sustainer) Director, Cultural Affairs, City of Virginia Beach • Heather Mantz - (Nominating Chair) Director, Environmental Affairs, Virginia Port Authority • Kelly McMahon Willette (Headquarters Chair - Elect) Owner, Willette Designs, LLC This was a true honor to have 10% of this year’s honorees to be JLNVB members. The women of the JLNVB continue to demonstrate their leadership skills and their ability to make an impact both in the business world and in the Junior League.Without these partnerships, we cannot be successful. We thank them for their continued support. As times change, it is important for us to continue to keep our valued members of the League informed about current activities. To accomplish this, we use our monthly newsletter, TIDEings. In keeping with the economic times and a constant focus on conserving the environment, starting in September 2009, we will “go green” with TIDEings, sending an electronic version to all Provisional and Active members. We would like to extend the option to our valued Sustaining members to receive an electronic version as well. You will have received a letter in the mail asking you to supply either your email address or a response requesting to continue receiving a hard copy of TIDEings. If you haven’t done so, please take a moment to complete this. We appreciate your continued support of the Junior League of Norfolk – Virginia Beach, Inc. and look forward to another exciting and successful year!
20
Fundraisers
21
Oscar Night® America The First Oscar Night America was held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott February 22, 2009 sponsored by our Partners in Positive Change Farm Fresh Charitable Foundation and David Sokol. The event was also supported by DACS, Inc.; Chesapeake Regional Health Foundation; Wolcott, Rivers and Gates; Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc.; Kelly Avery; Troutman Sanders, Dr. Pam Morgan and 3 Leos Public Relations, LLC. On Sunday evening, February 22, 2009, Hampton Roads came alive as The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach Incorporated (JLNVB) hosted Oscar Night® America, Hollywood Meets Hampton Roads, a gala of unparalleled glamour and excitement! The night included a live digital telecast of the Oscars® direct from Los Angeles, California, and entertainment from one of Hampton Roads’ premier bands – Butter. Attendees participated in a Silent Auction, a Predict the Winners Contest, and enjoyed tasty treats provided by the Marriott Norfolk Waterside Hotel. Emcees Vanessa Coria and Kim Wadsworth along with 2009’s Marquee Honoree, Susan Mayo, a Vice President of Farm Fresh Supermarkets, represented the local ‘celebrity’ presence – creating one of the season’s most glamorous and enjoyable events in Hampton Roads. The JLNVB’s Oscar Night® America, Hollywood Meets Hampton Roads, was the only official party in Southeastern Virginia sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. With over 250 people in attendance, guests were dazzled on the red carpet by ppaparazzi, flashing cameras, and giant Oscar statues. Each guest contributed to sustaining the mission and vision of the JLNVB by helping to raise more than $15,000 for the League’s Healthy Kids Initiative and Junior League projects. All monies raised in February remain in Hampton Roads and benefit local women and children.
Dressed Out In All Her Finery...
“They may talk of a comet, or a burning mountain, or some such bagatelle; but to me a modest woman, dressed out in all her finery, is the most tremendous object of the whole creation.” -Oliver Goldsmith
Silver Bells & Sea Shells
22
The first Silver Bells and Sea Shells Shopping Event was held at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach Town Center October 3-4, 2008. The event was sponsored by past presidents: Ingrid McGowan, Helen Withers, Shelly Gram, Dawn Peters, Debbie Russell, Emily Filer, Adelaide Snyder, Joann Berkley, Linda Palmer, Kirkland Clarkson Donna Bortell, Lee Curtis Avery, Debra Griggs, Emily Mills Margaret Beale, Virginia Hitch and Jackie Peters, and also by board members Connie Hedrick, Brooks Lively, Kim Blake, Melissa Steadman, Heather Mantz, Dawn Provost, Cinda Ayers, Sally Dudley Lori Collins ,Shelly Gram, Courtney Davio and Kelly Avery.
All The Money In The World... “If women didn’t exist, all the money in the world would have no meaning.” -Aristotle Onassis
Annual Golf Tournament The 5th Annual Golf Tournament (May 2008) was supported by 3 time sponsor Malcolm Pirnie. Carraba’s was 19th hole sponsor. Hole sponsor’s Emerson Cigars, Graybar Electric, Kerneos, Mark Prock, Norma Price, Sevac Corporation, SunTrust, The Appraisal Network, DACS, Inc., Tidewater Staffing, UBS.
23
Cookbooks The Cookbook Committee had a very successful year with a variety of tastings, training sessions and cookbook sales. We kicked off the year with a training event for all Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach members in August. Bob Johnson of Favorite Recipes Press shared creative ways to market our cookbooks. Our members left the training with a renewed sense of enthusiasm for our two books Toast to Tidewater and Tidewater on the Half Shell. This training came in handy as we asked all members to provide leads for new cookbook wholesale accounts!
Women Go Right On Cooking...
“When men reach their sixties and retire, they go to pieces. Women go right on cooking.” -Gail Sheehy This year our league reached out to cookbook committees across the country. We partnered with the Junior Leagues of Cincinnati, Pine Bluff, Sarasota and Annapolis to offer our members a wide selection of books from which to choose. This was such a hit, we plan to offer new books next year through this swap program. In November 2008, the committee had a variety of tastings in advance of the holiday season. We held events at A. Dodson’s in Suffolk, the new Old Dominion University Bookstore and the Fresh Market in Virginia Beach. In addition to representing the league, members shared their favorite recipes with shoppers. Our “Fabulous Feta Pesto Spread” was such a hit that we sold out and were invited to host another tasting this past April...but only if we brought equally as delicious food!
Set No Limits! “I think the key is for women not to set any limits.” -Martina Navratilova
Sustainer of the Year
24
Barbara Sutelan long ago earned the nickname “JLNVB rock star.” This is no small compliment in an organization of female leaders! Barbara’s commitment to the League is limitless. Whether serving in chair roles or volunteering for community or fundraising hours, she gives 100%. Barbara coordinated our transition to the website a few short years ago and has trained hundreds of members on how to navigate the website and manage the data. The trainings she offered to groups or to an individual at 9:00 at night have always been clear, thorough and always tinged with great patience. Although she sustained, she continues to be a valuable resource and guide for the League. Her past placements included Provisional Co-Planner, webmaster, a member of the Edmarc Committee, JLNVB board member and Administrative Vice President. If her involvement in the League weren’t enough, Barbara is also the Brownie Troop 444 Leader and a member of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Race Committee. Congratulations Barbara!
Barbara Sutelan 2008-2009 Sustainer of the Year
Sustaining Members
25
Passion Into Action Our award winning Passion Into Action luncheon series continued with another year of great Sustainers ready to share their passions and how they took action to create positive change in our community! For the first time this year, this valuable training opportunity was available to Provisionals at no cost. In November we heard from Past President Marty Raiss about her great Passion, the World Changers program. The program brings together youth and adults from around the country to cities across the U.S. to work on week-long projects that benefit the host community. In Norfolk, World Changers works to improve housing conditions in several neighborhoods. Participants learn the benefits of servant leadership while at the same time learning a skill. In March, Sustainer Clay Barr shared her Passion for the arts as she spoke about the growth of the Virginia Arts Festival and her part in the growth of that organization. Her speech culminated in her description of the Clay and Jay Barr Education Center as the new, permanent home of the festival. This new center will not only provide for the Festival offices, it will also provide valuable space for arts performances, training, and education. We had 55 League Members attend the luncheons this year, and of that number 8 were Provisionals. Passion Lunches were also included as part of the official training for the year and members were given credit for a training session for attending. The Passion into Action Luncheon series along with the new Leadership Institute are perfect examples of how Sustainers continue to contribute their many talents to our League. We thank them all and look forward to many more years of their sharing of their valuable knowledge to all our members.
Sustainer of the Year
26
As a Sustainer, Heather Mantz stepped up to not only be part of the Nominating Committee but was the Chair. This was a significant time commitment as she attended Board Meetings, GMM’s, and the Nominating Committee Meetings – not to mention the marathon day of Board Interviews. As impressive as the interviewees were, Heather was equally impressive with how she conducted the interviews. Her professionalism was credited with how organized and efficient the day was run. She contributed these same qualities to Placement while assisting them as well. Heather is highly accomplished in her professional life. She holds several degrees - 2 Graduate and 1 Undergraduate, and was named Top Forty Under 40 working for the Virginia Port Authority. Heather also presently serves as the VPA’s representative to the American Association of Port Authorities – Harbors Navigation and Environment Committee, and the Virginia Maritime Association - Environmental Awareness Committee. Ms. Mantz is a member of the Board of Lead Hampton Roads and serves on the Board of Governors of St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Virginia. She has also served as a member of the Board for the Virginia Ballet. She is truly a role model and is an example of how being part of the JLNVB is a lifetime membership. Congratulations Heather!
Heather Mantz 2008-2009 Sustainer of the Year
Training
27
In 2008, JLNVB won the coveted AJLI/Anheuser-Busch Award for our work on the Passion into Action Luncheons and the development of the Leadership Institute. Based on the success of the Sustainer-driven Passion into Action initiative, JLNVB Active members wanted to further our mission by drawing upon the talent and expertise of our Sustainer base to train the next generation of community leaders. The Leadership Institute goal is to: “Develop the leadership potential of members through diverse training by JLNVB Sustainers” and our 2008-2009 theme was: “Communication: The Key to Effective Leadership”. The Leadership Institute team developed four training modules, focusing on topics such as Leading Effective Meetings, Leadership Communication Styles, Conflict Resolution / Dealing with Difficult People, and Communicating for Professional and Personal Growth. In addition to the Leadership Institute training component, our funding allowed for the creation of a JLNVB Leadership Library. Through purchases and donations, the JLNVB now offers many excellent leadership reading selections and resources for members. Key titles available, many of which are well-known leadership classics, include Good to Great by Jim Collins, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell, Leading Change by John Kotter, Principle-Centered Leadership by Stephen Covey, The Leadership Challenge by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner, Managing the Non-Profit Organization: Principles and Practices by Peter Drucker, Leading from the Front by Angie Morgan and Courtney Lynch, The Way of the Shepherd: 7 Ancient Secrets to Managing Productive People by Kevin Leman and William Pentak, and Women and the Leadership Q: Revealing the Four Paths to Influence and Power by Shoya Zichy. We were pleased with the successful launch of this initiative and look forward to expanding our program in the 2009-2010 League year.
You Have Knowledge “If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it.” -Margaret Fuller
LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE We started the 2008 – 2009 League year in August with a Chair Training at Towne Bank. Incoming Chairs received information from President Cinda Ayers, Council VPs, the Webmaster, and others to help educate and guide the Chairs through the upcoming year. After a year of planning and thanks to a $10,000 AJLI grant, we kick off the JLNVB Leadership Institute. The Institute fulfilled its goal of furthering the Junior League’s mission of developing the potential of women by offering membership diverse and expanded training opportunities while capitalizing on the talent and experience of JLNVB Sustainers. Topics selected for the Leadership Institute were modules specific to the JLNVB mission and our Strategic Plan. The topics were Leading Effective Meetings, Leadership Communicating Styles, Conflict Resolution/Dealing with Difficult People, and Communicating for Career Advancement. The Institute utilized JLNVB Sustainers as trainers for the sessions. Thank you to Dawn Peters, Debbie Russell, Kristan Burch, and Kathy Shelton for conducting the sessions for Leadership Institute. At the Annual Dinner, several Actives and Provisionals were presented with a certificate of completion for the Leadership Institute. Way to go ladies!! The Leadership Institute Lending Library offers additional information pertaining to Leadership. Members are encouraged to utilize the resources in the library for all aspects of their lives. We encouraged members to attend the Passion into Action Luncheon series. Members that attended a PIA received training credit. Both Provisionals and Actives attended the luncheons and really enjoyed themselves. In lieu of a November GMM, Cluster Meetings were hosted in Sustainers homes located throughout Hampton Roads. The agenda focused on the education of members on the Nominating Process. The Clusters were thoroughly enjoyed by members and
28
29
Sustainers alike. Again, thank you to Sustainers, Shelly Gram, Bobbie Gribble, Debbie Russell, Kathy Shelton, Ginger Van De Water, and Terri Yates for opening up your homes to the League and for your continued support. Additionally, we offered 15 minute “Time Out for Training” at monthly GMMs. The speakers included: Dr. Lucy Gibney who spoke about her son’s food allergies which motivated her to start her own cookie business. AJLI trainer, Vicki Clark spoke to the members about how to be a servant leader. She reminded members to believe in our mission and to sell the dream. Ms. Clark spoke separately with the BOD about being a mission-driven Board at a breakfast meeting at the TWH. Darby Beckman, Dietician, spoke at the February GMM about healthy food choices and a healthy lifestyle. At the April GMM, Financial Planner, Ashley Dorroh, offered advice to help our members cope with their finances and investments during these difficult economic times. Additional training hours we offered through partnerships with the Community Council, Finance Council, and Membership Council.
Placement
Trust a Woman’s Instinct. “I would rather trust a woman’s instinct than a man’s reason.” -Stanley Baldwin
The 2008-2009 League year began with the placement of actives and sustainers in important positions throughout the League. Use of TidewaterNet for obligation management and member updates continues to be refined. With the advice of Communications Council it was decided that the 2009-2010 year would bring a paid consultant to work on the website with a web liaison placement to better manage the intricacies of managing the website and compiling reports. The placement management tool was used this year for members to select their top three choices for placement next year. Members continue to be encouraged to use the website to better track obligations, workshifts, personal contact information and change of status requests. Use of the change of status form located under JLNVB resources continues to be a critical tool in tracking members requests for LOA, non resident active status and resignations. The Placement Fair was brought back in March of this year with very positive feedback and participation from members. The only suggestion for next year would be to move the fair up one month to February to coincide with the placement interview and placement of chairs. The Placement Guide was also updated this year with feedback from chair and council VP’s on description, committee numbers needed and estimated hours of time required. Two new positions for the 2009-2010 year were added, Communications Assistant VP and Provisional Recruiting Chair, to better serve the Junior League’s ever changing needs. Both of these positions were added to the placement guide and members were chosen by the nominating committee based on an individual application process. The 2008-2009 year brought an economic downturn that has brought some challenges to the Junior League membership. The Placement Committee along with the assistance of council VP’s and chairs continues to assist members in any way possible to ensure obligations are met within the individual needs of the members and ensure member retention. The Placement Committee strives to consistently improve member satisfaction and retention. We look forward to continuing to make positive changes within our placement process and grow our membership to better serve our community.
30
Headquarters
31
Risk Management At the beginning of this League year, the HQ team identified and implemented three key risk management practices. First, we scanned and electronically archived critical League historical, legal, financial, and administrative documents. In addition to electronic copies being stored on the League computer, these archives will also reside with the Administrative Vice President and the Contracts Chair in the event of a disaster or accidental damage to our paper copies. Second, in order to protect our valuable and sensitive League information, we contracted with a computer services company for increased system security, hardware and software repairs, virus prevention and removal, and data backups. Finally, we developed an emergency checklist for the Taylor-Whittle House providing details on the alarm system procedures, locations of all phones to call emergency services if necessary, and locations of flashlights, candles, matches, batteries, the fire extinguisher, the first aid kit, and the circuit breaker box.
Taylor-Whittle House Rentals We are very proud to have use of the Taylor-Whittle House as our Headquarters. In addition to its use in managing League operations and hosting numerous League meetings, the Taylor-Whittle House is available to rent for private functions or external parties. This year, we enhanced our advertising efforts in hopes to increase the number of rentals, including securing a professional photographer who will use the House for a photo shoot and allow the JLNVB use of the photos for future advertisements. One notable rental in November of 2008 was by the League of Women Voters who hosted a welcoming ceremony for a delegation from Azerbaijan. The delegation was visiting the United States to learn about and observe our governmental and election processes. Our Headquarters Chair, Laura Bangor, also took this opportunity to speak with them about the Junior League organization, the Taylor-Whittle House, our League’s history, and the role we fill in the social culture of the United States by helping to address needs that are underserved by government institutions.
Newsletter Series: “Get to Know Your Headquarters” Throughout the 2008-2009 League year, the Headquarters Committee ran an interesting and informative series in TIDEings entitled “Get to Know Your Headquarters”. The articles provided facts on the history of the Taylor-Whittle House, information about the original occupants, and detailed descriptions and accompanying photos that highlighted the unique architectural elements that make our Headquarters one of the most distinctive historical buildings in Virginia.
Taylor-Whittle House Community Events One of the biggest responsibilities of the Headquarters Committee is to host events at the Taylor-Whittle House. This League year, the team surpassed all expectations and hosted three amazing events, a Progressive Tea, the Freemason Holiday Home Tour, and the Home for the Holidays Tour (formerly the Cannonball Trail Homes Tour).
Progressive Tea: Our Hearts Beat True for the Red, White, and Blue The JLNVB joined the Hunter House Victorian Museum and the Moses-Myers House in hosting a progressive tea on Sunday, October 5, 2008. The theme of the tea was, “Our Hearts Ring True for the Red, White, and Blue” and proceeds from the ticket sales went to support military charities for women and children. The tea began at the Moses-Myers House with tea and scones, and then moved to the Taylor-Whittle House for tea and sandwiches. The day ended at the Hunter House Victorian Museum with tea and sweets. It was a beautiful day and the Taylor-Whittle House was the perfect setting for the event. Sustainer Shelly Gram provided themed arrangements of red, white, and blue and League members provided tea sandwiches using recipes from our award-winning cookbook, Tidewater on the Half Shell. Christina Morton’s violin students, Lindsey and Kristen Crook, of the Academy of Music, provided entertainment for our guests and their music greatly added to the atmosphere of the event. We were very pleased with the success of the progressive tea and hope to be able to participate again in the future. Special thanks to Shelly Gram, Laura Bangor, Xan Hunter, and Cameron Meals for their help in making the tea a success!
32
33
Norfolk Holiday Tours Continuing our winter tradition, the Taylor-Whittle House was again a feature on the annual area holiday tours. I can’t think of anything better to get visitors in the holiday spirit than the smell of hot cider, fresh greens, and a friendly Junior League welcome to the Taylor-Whittle House. We are always pleased to have opportunities to invite the public to see our beautiful headquarters and we sincerely appreciate all the help that we receive from members through decorating and serving as docents to help make the tours a success! Additionally, so many thanks go to Laura Bangor, Cameron Meals, Shelly Gram, Ashley Hall, Xan Hunter, Kirsten Raeber, Kelly Willette and the many others for making it a successful event again this year; the authentic decorations looked incredible!
Freemason Holiday Homes Tour Record numbers braved the cold on a beautiful, sunny Sunday in order to attend the Freemason Holiday Homes Tour, including the circa 1790 Taylor-Whittle House, on Sunday, December 7, 2008. As people entered into the Taylor-Whittle House, they were greeted by a JLNVB docent who pointed out key historical and architectural elements. Visitors enjoyed music performed by the Park View School’s student violists and steamy hot cider was served as people sampled tasty bites from our cookbooks. Guests also enjoyed the atmosphere created by the distinctive, natural decorations made by Junior League members to “deck the halls” of the Taylor-Whittle House. Members spent countless hours the days prior to the tour creating festive, natural, period decorations from materials that were native and common to the area during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. These decorations included magnolia leaves, holly, ivy, cedar, boxwood, acuba, nandina, oyster shells, pheasant feathers, and much more. In addition to the Taylor-Whittle House, Hunter House, and Epworth United Methodist Church, there were five other residences on the Freemason Holiday Homes Tour.
Never Doubt! “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead
Home for the Holidays Tour (formerly the Cannonball Trail Homes Tour) On Sunday, December 14, 2008, the JLNVB participated in a second holiday tour. The Home for the Holidays Tour, formerly the Cannonball Trails Tour, was free and included several of Norfolk’s historic sites, such as the Moses-Myers House, Hunter House Victorian Museum, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Freemason Street Baptist Church, Willoughby-Baylor House, Epworth Methodist Church, and the TaylorWhittle House. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day and everyone enjoyed the opportunity to stroll and visit the historic sites garnering a glimpse into Norfolk’s colorful past. The JLNVB again offered hot cider and refreshments from our two cookbooks. One of the highlights of the Home for the Holiday Tour was League members putting on their ‘storyteller hats’ by reading period holiday tales and poems to visitors.
A Picture-Perfect Donation In March of 2009, we received a call from Mr. Hume Taylor asking if he could donate a portrait to the JLNVB. Mr. Taylor is a descendant of the Taylor family who originally occupied our Headquarters, the Taylor-Whittle House. The portrait is of Margaret Walke, who was married to the first Richard Taylor and is also a descendent of Adam Thoroughgood. This important piece of Norfolk and JLNVB history will be placed in a prominent location on the first floor of the Taylor-Whittle House for the enjoyment of both Junior League members as well as the many visitors to the House. Special thanks goes to Amy Harman, Contracts Chair, who drafted the League’s new donation legal agreement.
34
35
Done In A Day Projects In May 2009, the Headquarters Committee coordinated two DIAD projects to further ongoing efforts to organize and improve the use of space at the Taylor-Whittle House. This year’s focus is on the third floor storage areas. Our goal is to provide specific storage space for Committees and to purge and catalog our historical archives. This is an ongoing effort that requires the aid and cooperation of all JLNVB Councils; we would like to thank each of them for their assistance and continued diligence in maintaining the newly designated and organized storage rooms.
And With Appreciation... Finally, we continue to be grateful for the efforts of our wonderful Office Manager, Linda Piper. With her dedication and can-do spirit, the League Office continues to function like a well-oiled machine!
Thank you, Linda!
Administration
Arrangements worked diligently to streamline processes and activities at the monthly General Membership Meetings (GMMs) and Board of Directors Meetings. Special thanks to Tina Brady, Arrangements Chair, who helped make sure everything was in order for our General Membership Meetings and was key in arranging our complimentary meeting space with Norfolk Collegiate – our host for almost all of our General Membership Meetings this year! Norfolk Collegiate could not have been a more gracious host; from room and audio/visual setup to clean up, their ‘customer service’ was second to none. Finally, we provided our members with dinner during the Merry Minutes portion of the GMMs and we’d be remiss if we didn’t thank Farm Fresh Catering for helping us select healthy, fresh, and delicious food. In closing out the 2008-2009 League year, Arrangements worked behind the scenes to prepare our Annual Celebration Dinner, held in May of 2009 at Princess Anne Country Club. Annual Dinner is a special event celebrating the successes of the League year. We strive to make our Annual Dinner a merry and memorable evening by honoring our Council’s achievements, voting our Provisionals to Active JLNVB members, honoring special guests who have positively impacted the JLNVB, and announcing the winners of the League Light Award, Provisional of the Year Award, Sustainer of the Year Award, and Community Impact Award. The Annual Dinner is also a forum to commemorate the transition of leadership from our current President, Cinda Ayers, to our incoming President, Dawn Provost. Norfolk Collegiate is deserving of a giant thank you from the Junior League of NorfolkVirginia Beach, Inc. For the second year in a row, Norfolk Collegiate has not only provided us with the space in which to hold our meetings, but has set up the tables and provided the AV equipment we use every month. In addition, they have been unfailingly gracious and accommodating of our needs. Without the assistance of community partners like Norfolk Collegiate, our League would be unable to continue in its mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Thank You Norfolk Collegiate!
Again, on behalf of the Administrative Council and the entire League...
36
League Light Award
37
Kelly Reynolds transferred to JLNVB in September. Her 8 months with JLNVB has certainly had an impressive impact. During her short tenure, she has served on the Cookbooks Committee, Community Response Fund Committee, Gala Committee and is the TIDEings Editor. It is difficult to be placed in multiple roles and still be effective, however, Kelly’s list of accomplishments across the League are frequently touted. Kelly volunteered to write the monthly column for Cookbooks and Gala to be placed in TIDEings. She developed all of the event collateral for the Gala. She is redesigning the JLNVB website, and has developed an event brand for the shopping event to include the logo and tagline. She attended ODI and brought back great ideas to implement in the 2009-2010 League year and will Chair the Gala Event for 2009-2010. Outside of the League, she is the Zone Captain of Willoughby Beach for Clean the Bay Day for Chesapeake Bay Foundation and is on the Board of Moderators for Norfolk Freecycle. If that weren’t impressive enough, she manages a suc-
Kelly Reynolds 2008-2009 Recipient League Light Award
cessful public relations agency while managing to keep up with her very busy one and a half year old son, Jake. Kelly is originally from Durham, NC but now lives on the beach in Willougby Spit with her son Jake and their cat Jasmine. Congratulations Kelly!
The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. 2008 - 2009 JLNVB Board & Councils President Cinda Ayers President-Elect Dawn Provost Membership Council Membership V.P. Melissa Steadman Leadership Initiatives Director Nicole Powell Nominating Chair Heather Mantz At-Large Director Lori Collins Admissions Coordinator Laura Bangor Provisional Co-Chairs Ashley Gentry & Julie Heller Transfer Co-Chairs Jennifer McDonald & Jessica Martyn Special Events Chair NeShondra Johnson Placement Chair Kirsten Brown Raeber Placement Chair-Elect Shannon Wright Community Council Community V.P. Courtney Davio Signature Issue Chair Denise Kellam & Heather Langknecht Community Response Fund Chair Valerie Asbell Public Affairs Chair Susie Wentworth Kids In The Kitchen Chair Melissa Polizos Communications Council Communications V.P. Julie Paulina TIDEings Editor Kelly Reynolds TIDEings Assistant Editor Hanan Mitry Webmaster Sarah Milam Webmaster-Elect Kerry Robinette
38
Finance Council Treasurer Connie Hedrick Treasurer-Elect Brooks Lively Ways & Means Chair Kelly Avery Ways & Means Chair-Elect Najwa Knox Fund Development Chair Sherri Stein Grantsmanship Chair Kim Haden Cookbook Co-Chairs Susan Malandrino & Christine Holland Gala Event Chair Jessica Wilburn Gala Event Chair-Elect Kelly Reynolds TIDEings Business Manager Kelly Reynolds Golf Tournament Co-Chairs Ann Berling & Lori Roberts FestEvents & Merchandise Coordinator Stacy Long Shopping Event Co-Chairs Najwa Knox & Braden Lindberg Administrative Council Administrative V.P. / Secretary Kimberly Thompson Parliamentarian Sally Dudley Strategic Planning Director Kim Blake Arrangements Chair Tina Brady Headquarters Chair Laura Bangor Headquarters Chair-Elect / Historian Kelly Willette Contracts Chair Amy Harman Sustainer Advisor Kristan Burch
The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Inc. The Taylor-Whittle House 227 West Freemason Street Norfolk, Virginia 23510 757.623.7270 Office 757.623.3932 Fax www.jlnvb.org info@jlnvb.org