LeagueLines, March/April 2014

LeagueLines The Newsletter of The Junior League of Austin March/April 2014

celebrating 80 years

Capital Campaign Active and Provisional Ambassador Program by Jamie Burchfield

In 1983, The Junior League of Austin became the first League to own commercial property when we purchased our current headquarters.

Our membership at the time totaled 975 women, and we served a population of 373,000 people. Today, The Junior League of Austin is more than 2,400 women strong and the population of Austin has nearly tripled.

A new home is essential to facilitate our mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Currently, the JLA is deeply engaged in our Active and Provisional Ambassador Program to work toward our goal of $1 million in pledges and contributions toward our capital campaign. Planning for the capital campaign began in 2010 with a feasibility planning study for fundraising. The Quiet Phase launched in the fall of 2011.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

NORTH EAST CORNER

like our members were more than 30 years ago when our current headquarters was purchased.

Terri Williams, 80th Anniversary Chair and Active Capital Campaign Captain, really drives home the reason for giving to the capital campaign when she says, “This is our opportunity to plant seeds of impact to bring solutions to the issues Each of us chooses to be a part of the JLA facing our community. A new headquarters for a very personal reason, and because of will not only help us grow, but it will also give us that, it makes sense that our fundraising be the space to help others in our community.� personal as well. The Active and Provisional A new League headquarters will continue the Ambassador Program consists of 76 members evolution of The Junior League of Austin by who are reaching out to approximately 20 helping us achieve a new level of growth and Active members each to engage them in giving to our community partners. the capital campaign. In addition, Sustaining members, led by the Capital Campaign To make a gift to the capital campaign, please Steering Committee, also play an integral role click here or be on the lookout for a call or email in our capital campaign through programs from your Ambassador. You can also access the tailored for their group. We each have a donation form through your member homepage. meaningful story of our membership in the League, and we also have varying abilities of potential financial contributions. Through this process, we have the opportunity to be innovators and inspiration for our community, 1 | LeagueLines

In This Issue

Capital Campaign

1

In This Issue

2

Nominating Slate

3

Dealing with Decorum

4

Recipe Exchange

5

Animal Trustees

8

Mid-Year Perspective

9

Colorado River Alliance

11

Dress for Success

12

Front Steps

13

Partnership for Children

14

At Work and Play

16

Spotlights: Provisionals

17

Actives

18

Transfers 19 Sustainers

20

JLA Babies and Weddings

21

Updates

23

Mark Your Calendars

24

LeagueLines The Newsletter of The Junior League of Austin

Published five times a year by The Junior League of Austin Lindsey Elbom Gehrig, Editor Sheridan Cottom, Literary Editor Sarah Stotts, Copy Editor Sarah Heidler, Design Editor

Board of Directors 2013-2014 Kelly Breeden President Gregory Noack President-Elect Lauren Price Treasurer

Graphic Designers/ Layout Assistants: Kimberly Knaus Lauren Krumlauf Andrea Maceyra Lindsay Wampler Kristen Yen

Amber Brabham

Photography Staff: Lara Jones

Ashley Kelm Administrative VP

Writers: Amy Ashwood Jennifer Bernier Jamie Burchfield Laura Williams Sustaining Advisor: Andrea Lofye

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Recording Secretary

Catherine Bird Community VP

Erin Courreges

Communications VP

Holly Priestner Financial Development VP Camille Jobe Membership Development VP Jenny Butterworth Member-at-Large Hannah Nokes Member-at-Large Cookie Ruiz Sustaining President Dawn Breyfogle Parliamentarian/ Bylaws

Renee Harvey Treasurer-Elect Sarah Valenzuela Nominating Chair Jenn Galbraith Strategic Planning Chair Hadley Hempel Technology Chair

2014 - 2015 Nominated Placements Board of Directors President – Greg Noack President-Elect – Casie Wenmohs Treasurer – Renee Harvey Treasurer-Elect – Melissa Read Community Vice President – Becky Johnson Membership Development Vice President – Terri Williams Recording Secretary – Jenny Butterworth Administrative Vice President – Ashley Hight Communications Vice President – Debra Espinosa Financial Development Vice President – Laura Robinson Technology Chair – Meredith Clarke Nominating Chair – Julie Hall Strategic Planning Chair – Camille Jobe Parliamentarian/By-Laws Chair – Anne Prentice Administrative Council (Led by Ashley Hight, Administrative Vice President) In League Special Events – Jacquelyn Noack Arrangements – Alison Lee Headquarters – Jamie Sorrentino Communications Council (Led by Debra Espinoza, Communications Vice President) PR/Marketing – Jolie Cypert CapitaLines Editor – Doise Miers LeagueLines – Stacey Mather Community Council (Led by Becky Johnson, Community Vice President) Coats for Kids – Katie Schonert Placement Chair – Carrie Semple Researchers Chair – Cori Modisett Grants Chair-Elect – Liz Neff Focus Area Chair – Aimee Finney Focus Area Chair – Rachel Zander Financial Development Council (Led by Laura Robinson, Financial Development Vice President) ACA Chair – Tina McCutchin Grants – Marissa Williams FDC Support Team Chair – Cat Mattingly PR/Marketing Chair-Elect – Lara Anton

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CapitaLines Editor-Elect – Tara Akins FIT Chair-Elect – Elizabeth Hadley Coats for Kids Chair-Elect – Courtney Clark ACA Chair-Elect – Holly Priestner Membership Development Council (Led by Terri Williams, Membership Development Vice President) FIT Chair – Deanna Schobey Placement-Elect – Amanda Zukowski Training and Education Chair – Jennifer Ransom Rice Provisional Chair – Courtney Dickey ACA Nominated Roles Decorations Co-Chair – Lisa Kaspar Decorations Co-Chair – Natalie Sheridan Merchant Co-Chair – Nichole Owen Merchant Co-Chair – Paige Smith Nominating Committee Slate Kris Calder Courtney Clark Alisa Cohen Victoria Debra Espinosa Hadley Hempel Ashley Hight Camille Jobe Cat Mattingly Heather Parsons Jennifer Ransom Rice Carrie Semple Jamie Sorrentino Ann Townsend Carrie Walton Board Members-at-Large Jene Bearse Lyndsey Crawford Nicole Elliott Jacqueline Noack Stacey Reed Alicia Robertson ODI Participants Courtney Clark Leslie Moore Laura Robinson Amanda Zukowski

EALING WITH decorum

by Penelope Que

My girlfriends and I want to get out for a night on the town, but I’m a bit out of the social scene these days. Any recommendations for a ‘Girls’ Night Out’?

- What’s Rainey Street?

Dear What’s Rainey Street?, I’m a bit out of the social scene these days too, but my recipe for a no-fail Girls’ Night Out always starts with good food and ends with dancing. The last time my gals got together, we hit the 2nd Street District for dinner and then made the short walk to the Warehouse District to dance the night away. If you feel like mingling with the hipsters, hit up any one of the restaurants and bars on the east side of I-35 in Central Austin. Last, but certainly not least, if you’re willing to brave a Sunday night out, head anywhere on South Congress for dinner and then dancing at the iconic bar and dancehall Continental Club.

Is it too late to send thank you notes for Christmas gifts?

- Definitely Not Miss Manners Dear Definitely Not Miss Manners, The holidays are a very busy time.

Everyone can appreciate that. Everyone can also appreciate that a late thank you is certainly better than no thank you at all.

Sit down and get to writing!

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Summer is right around the corner. I can already sense my kids getting antsy. Help!

- Sweatin’ Summer Dear Sweatin’ Summer, I think the answer to your question is a four-letter word.

C-A-M-P. Now I’m certainly no expert, but I’ve pulled together some resources after consulting with my more knowledgeable LeagueLines colleagues. Check into summer camp guides at the following: • The Austin American-Statesman’s summer camp roundup came out in late February.

• The Austin Chronicle also has a summer camp guide • Austin Woman Magazine selected its top camps based on children’s interests and hobbies

I’m expecting my first child later this year. What books are a must for first-time parents?

- I don’t need a license for this?!

Dear I don’t need a license for this?!, Congratulations on your impending bundle of joy. Ah the joys of pregnancy. There’s the magic of feeling your baby move for the first time. The moment you find out whether it’s a daughter or a son. The moment you can no longer see your feet. The moment you discover how bad heartburn can get. Wait? This really takes 40 weeks? Even though at times it feels like it’s lasting an eternity, it really does go by in the blink of an eye.

Which is exactly why you want to prepare yourself now for what lies ahead. I have found three books to be utterly indispensable for the first-time parent. The first is Baby411 by Denise Fields and Ari Brown. This book covers everything you don’t know but will quickly learn about taking care of an infant. You can read it now before the baby comes to start preparing, and then it’s a fantastic resource once baby arrives. The second book is The Happiest Baby on the Block by Dr. Harvey Karp. If you have a fussy baby (and all babies are fussy at times) this book teaches you strategies to soothe them. The third book is My Child is Sick by Barton D. Schmitt. Kids get sick a lot, especially if they spend a good amount of time around other kids. This book is great for helping you know when to absolutely call the doctor, when you can wait, and what to do while you’re waiting. Lastly, everyone has an opinion on sleep books, and I wouldn’t dare touch that with a 10-foot pole.

Recipe Exchange

by Laura Williams

Orange Julius Ingredients 1 large can of frozen orange juice 1 small can of pineapple juice 2 fresh bananas 1 bag frozen strawberries Champagne, or Sprite for those abstaining Blend first four ingredients. Fill champagne flutes halfway with mixture. Finish with champagne or Sprite. Stir.

Submitted by Sheridan Cottom

Brie with Almonds and Honey Ingredients 1 wedge of brie, about 12 ounces 1/4 cup of honey 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds 1 large French baguette  Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place brie in a baking dish.

Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted almonds. Bake for 10 minutes. Serve with thick slices of French bread.

Submitted by Lara Jones from Junior League of Houston Cookbook

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Black Bean and Corn Casserole Ingredients 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 cup chopped yellow onion 1/2 cup chopped red or green bell pepper 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce 1/2 cup tomato salsa 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt Freshly ground pepper to taste 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen 8 corn tortillas 4 cups grated Cheddar cheese Sour cream for serving Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil. Add onion, bell pepper and garlic, and sautĂŠ until tender, about 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce, salsa, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir in beans and corn.

In a lightly sprayed or oiled 9x13 glass baking dish, spread one-third of the bean mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish. Lay 4 corn tortillas on top slightly overlapping. Add another one-third of the bean mixture and half the cheese. Add 4 more tortillas, remaining bean mixture, and top with remaining cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until bubbly, about 10 minutes longer. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares to serve.

Pass sour cream in a bowl. Submitted by Sarah Stotts Recipe by Maryana Vollstedt

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Spinach Madeleine Ingredients 2 packages frozen chopped spinach 3/4 teaspoon celery salt 4 tablespoons butter 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt 2 tablespoons flour Salt to taste 2 tablespoons chopped onion 6 ounces Kraft Velveeta, cubed 1/2 cup evaporated milk 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh jalapeno peppers 1/2 cup vegetable liquor 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Red pepper to taste Cook spinach according to directions on package. Drain and reserve liquor. Melt butter in saucepan over low heat.

Add flour, stirring until blended and smooth, but not brown. Add onion and cook until soft but not brown. Add liquid slowly, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Cook until smooth and thick; continue stirring. Add seasonings, peppers and cheese. Stir until melted.

Combine with cooked spinach. Spinach Madeleine is an extremely versatile dish. It can be served with crackers as an appetizer, as a side dish or even as a main course when stuffed in a tomato!

Serves 5 to 6.

Submitted by Laura Williams from the River Roads Recipes Cookbook by the Junior League of Baton Rouge This may be served immediately or put into a casserole and topped with buttered bread crumbs.

The flavor is improved if the latter is done and kept in refrigerator overnight. This may also be frozen.

We hope you enjoy trying out these recipes, and we encourage you to submit your go-to meal ideas for future issues. Email recipes to leaguelines@jlaustin.org.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ANIMAL TRUSTEES OF AUSTIN

Suzanne Tomlin

The Community Clinic for Animals

by Amy Ashwood For 20 years, ATA has provided safe and affordable treatment for animals in our community regardless of the owner’s income. The organization provides spay and neutering services and wellness care for beloved pets who may not otherwise receive these services. Each year, they provide low-cost services for about 3,500 animals, plus free care to pets in the homeless community.

Along with its everyday services, ATA runs a program called 4PAWS (For People and Animals Without Shelter) which provides free sterilization, vaccinations and veterinary care to pets of homeless citizens in our community. It also leads Recovering Hearts, a program that provides affordable heartworm treatments to more than 400 dogs annually.

The Junior League of Austin has been a partner of Animal Trustees of Austin since 2001, providing volunteers and funding. Many League volunteers stay on after their placement because they find such joy in helping families and their cherished pets. This year, the League has 12 volunteers that cover a wide range of services to help keep each day running smoothly. This December, our ATA volunteers teamed up with the Humane Society placement members to host a holiday gatherinng where they had a toy drive for pets at the shelters.

Suzanne Tomlin is the ATA project chair and has been volunteering since July 2013. She helps families check out when their dog or cat was in surgery for a spay or neuter. This includes explaining how to properly care for their furry friend in the days following the operation. What she enjoys most is seeing the smiling faces and happy tails when pets are reunited with their families. Suzanne’s big sister, Angela Tomlin, is the President-Elect of the Abilene, Texas Junior .League.

Each year, ATA hosts its signature fundraising event, PETCASSO, which features a live art auction of paintings by Austin animals. This year’s event will be held April 6 at the AT&T Conference Center.

JLA members have contributed to the artwork and have also purchased paintings in the past. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit petcassoaustin.org.

You can help the Animal Trustees of Austin by donating online, attending an event or giving an item from its wish list, which can be found on the website. It is always in need of light-colored washable towels, dry dog and cat food and washable toys. If you are an animal lover and have time to give, the clinic would love to have you.

There are opportunities for hands-on experiences with animals, making appointments, helping with the families and so much more. After attending an orientation and tour, training is provided for the specific job you choose.

The staff and volunteers truly care about the welfare of the animals. Everyone has a passion for what they do, and the pets are at the center of it all.

For more information, visit animaltrustees.org.

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Mid-year perspective from provisionals “My favorite part of my Provisional year has been taking the FIT bags from the pantry to the schools. My four-year-old son has accompanied me each time. Our Thursday trips have given me a chance to talk with him about the different economic situations of families in our city. He now understands that there are kids who don’t have a pantry full of food all the time like he does. The first few times we dropped off the backpacks, he was upset that I would not let him look in the bags and choose a snack. Now, he doesn’t ask for the food in the backpack. Instead, he is excited to take the food into the schools and help the “hungry kids.”

– Andrea Pratt

“The JLA has provided an awesome opportunity to learn about Austin and to meet some wonderful women who are committed to service. JLA touches so many lives in the Austin area, on the front lines and behind the scenes. It’s amazing and inspiring.

I relocated to Austin from Houston in 2013. I have learned a lot about what Austin has to offer from a community and service perspective. It’s a great introduction to the Austin community.”

– Larissa Estes

“My husband always refers to JLA as my “grown-up Girl Scout troop,” and six months into it, I couldn’t agree more. As a child, I blossomed as a Daisy and as a Brownie because the troop provided me a place to learn, explore and help others. The League is doing the same thing for me as an adult, and I couldn’t be happier about that. My favorite experience so far has been delivering FIT bags to the Baty classrooms early on Friday mornings.

It’s such a joy to be able to see the children that we have a direct impact on, and it reaffirms my commitment to the League and all it stands for. I also love that this shift usually requires you to partner up, which allows time to get to know another provisional and chat.”

– Margaret Hansen

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Spotlightperspective on Colorado River Alliance Mid-year from provisionals “My Junior League experience so far has been a year of introductions. Our Provisional class has about 300 women, so at every event you meet someone new. It’s pretty neat to see different women from different walks of life tied to a common cause. I’ve learned that people are really appreciative of the work that the Junior League does. As a type-A overachiever, I’ve always consumed myself with community service but at the end of the day I didn’t feel impactful or like my contribution made a difference. The League gives me a different vibe.

For my ACA shift I was responsible for traffic duty, a task that seems pretty monotonous, but during my shift I interacted with hundreds of people who shared their experiences with the League, and each person thanked me for the service that the Junior League does. Even though it was 30 degrees during my shift, I felt warm inside.”

– Ar’Sheill Sinclair

“I have absolutely loved being a part of the Junior League and my Provisional class. The Food in Tummies program has really fueled a spark in me to take a more active role in the League, as it has painted a very clear picture of the gaps to be filled in servicing the at-risk youth of our city. The JLA has redefined my desire to be a community servant. It’s so much more than cutting a check -it’s about building deep relationships with our community partners, pulling together our talented women and being intentional in addressing our community’s issues. The League has certainly made me appreciate the fine art of mastering attention to detail. The saying “the devil is in the details” must have been coined by a Junior League woman! In everything I do now, I take a Leaguetype approach. Every detail must be checked twice and then revalidated by a peer before moving on to the next step. It’s the only way to avoid mistakes and helps with being very thorough!”

– Yvette Ruiz

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Spotlight on the Colorado River Alliance

by Jennifer Bernier The Colorado River Alliance (CRA) is the only nonprofit dedicated solely to the conservation and protection of the Texas Colorado River. Since 1994, the CRA has been working to highlight the environmental and economic importance of the Colorado River to our community.

This year, The Junior League of Austin is proud to once again support the CRA through our community volunteer efforts. In her second time volunteering for CRA, third-year active Amanda Lyles is currently serving as project chair. She described to me the different opportunities League volunteers have to fulfill their volunteer obligation to the CRA. JLA members are often called upon to assist with the alliance’s social media communications, including its monthly newsletter, or serve as education docents. As docents, volunteers play an integral role in educating children about conservation efforts. Through the use of relatable educational materials and fun, interactive displays, young conservationists are born. According to Lyles, the most rewarding part of volunteering at the CRA is “seeing the students light up when they discover ways that they can help conserve water. It is so empowering to both students and volunteers,” she said. “Water conservation is a personal passion of mine, and there is nothing better than being able to educate and portray our passion to the next generation.”

Another plus from her two years of volunteering at CRA is the chance to interact with other League members through regular communication and shared volunteer slots while still maintaining the flexibility to work around busy schedules. Ultimately Lyles concludes, “This is a great placement for women who enjoy working with the youth of Central Texas, are passionate about their environment and are dedicated to educating our future generations about how to keep it sustainable.” If you’re interested in learning more about the CRA, visit coloradoriver.org.

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Spotlight on Dress for Success

by Jamie Burchfield Dress for Success Austin has a vision of every woman succeeding. The organization works to empower women to continually shape their own destiny, transforming themselves, their families and their communities. Since opening its doors in 2003, Dress for Success has served more than 5,000 women in Travis, Hays, Bastrop, Williamson and Caldwell counties by providing job interview clothing, confidence boosts and advice to help underprivileged women transition into the workforce. Worldwide, Dress for Success can be found in 118 cities in 11 countries.

As a community placement, 16 League members support Dress for Success by serving as image consultants, career advocates, newsletter writers and guidebook volunteers. As image consultants, League members coach clients, providing encouragement while suiting them for job interviews and their new careers. Career advocates assist clients in their job search by reviewing resumes, conducting mock interviews and staying in contact with clients regarding their job search and career goals. Ashley Wilson, project chair, says, “The biggest highlight is the one-on-one relationship with women when you can help them change their view of themselves and their future just by helping select their interview and job clothing.”

Wilson also notes that, “The opportunity to affect one woman’s confidence in entering the workforce just by providing clothing, a makeover or a simple word of encouragement is a true privilege.” With Dress for Success, the clothes are just the beginning. Through the services provided by volunteers, including League members, women receive the encouragement and tools they need to change their lives. For more information, visit dressforsuccess.org.

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Front Steps Placement Spotlight

by Jamie Burchfield The Junior League of Austin is in its first year of partnering with Front Steps Austin. Front Steps’ vision is to provide a continuum of services to end homelessness, meet the needs of homeless individuals and exercise a leadership role with providers, policy makers and the community for real answers to issues facing homeless people. Stacey Mather, project chair, says, “Since the Junior League was founded, our goal has been to serve those in need and improve communities. By partnering with Front Steps, the JLA is making an impact in Austin by providing the necessary tools to help people exit homelessness.”

The mission of Front Steps is to provide case management, support and shelter services; transition people experiencing chronic homelessness to a variety of sustainable housing options; and educate the community about the needs of men and women experiencing homelessness and innovative approaches to meeting those needs. League members volunteer their time assisting with two programs, the ARCH-ED program and the CIRCLE mentoring program.

Through the ARCH-ED program, League volunteers provide GED tutoring for those attempting to transition out of homelessness. The lack of a high school education is certainly a barrier to obtaining employment and exiting homelessness. Mather notes, “It is wonderful to see how excited the students are in gaining new knowledge and skills and how our volunteers are making an incredible difference in the lives of others.”

Our partnership with Front Steps truly exemplifies our motto of the Strength of Women and the Power of Community as we work together to serve part of the Austin community that needs us the most.

For more information, visit frontsteps.org.

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SPOTLIGHT ON Partnerships for Children

by Amy Ashwood For a decade, Partnerships for Children has been providing critical resources to abused and neglected children who are in the care of Austin Child Protective Services. These items include pajamas, toothbrushes and a comforting toy or teddy bear as children make the difficult transition. The average age of a child when placed in foster care is four, and sometimes he or she loses all possessions and is in need of basic necessities. The gifts and items are donated by the community, corporations and our very own Junior League of Austin. There are approximately 3,400 children in foster care in Central Texas, and 700 are awaiting adoption.

Ten years ago, a dedicated group of individuals came together to reestablish the Rainbow Room, a resource center located within the CPS offices. Essential items such as diapers, formula and hygiene supplies are distributed to victims of abuse and neglect. The Rainbow Room looks like your typical children’s store, stocked with toys, clothing, and infant care, but there is no cash register. “Shoppers,” the CPS caseworkers, fill out forms and help themselves to fulfill the needs of their children. Partnerships for Children makes sure the children in our community do not go another day without things we take for granted.

Partnerships for Children also has a Ready Bag Program, new duffle bags packed with essentials and then some, ready to be picked up at any time day or night by the caseworker so that a child can start completely over. Central Texas is plagued with meth labs, and many times children are removed from these conditions, but are unable to take any of their belongings because

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toxic residue has contaminated everything. PFC is trying to have 600 bags ready for this upcoming season. You can donate online – $50 sponsors a full duffel bag.

In addition, the organization created the Youth Empowerment and Success (YES) Mentoring Program for teenagers who are aging out of the foster care system. Statistics say that 25% of these youth end up homeless after age 18, 25% will be incarcerated within the first two years of exiting the foster case system, and just 3% will earn a college degree. The YES Mentoring Program strives to combat these numbers by pairing foster care teenagers with a mentor until age 21.

The Junior League also plays an instrumental role in the Holiday Wishes program. This allows children in CPS custody to have a happy holiday and create memories. Many have not had the thrill of a Christmas before. Each child gets three wishes, which are fulfilled through donations and generosity. Our volunteers collect donations and wrap gifts to help have them ready for delivery.

In 2013 more than 3,500 wishes were granted.

For more information about programs, donating and current wish lists from the organization, visit partnershipsforchildren.org.

SPOTLIGHT ON bOOKSPRING

by Jennifer Bernier BookSpring was founded with the mission to provide children and their families with the tools, experiences and books necessary to inspire them to read and help prepare them to succeed in school and life.

It envisions a community in which becoming literate is not left to chance. To this end, it has a variety of projects including Reading is Fundamental, Reach Out and Read, BookClub and Read-A-Thon. It is through the Reading is Fundamental program that The Junior League of Austin supports BookSpring.

I had the chance to speak to Regan Flaherty, this year’s BookSpring project chair, about this placement. In her three years in the League, Regan’s placements have all involved some of our children-centered partners. She, of course, began with FIT and then worked her second year with Partnerships for Children. She told me she was excited to keep working with children through BookSpring.” It’s so rewarding to be involved in promoting childhood literacy,” she said.

A mother of three, Regan reads to her kids every night and, like most parents, is very aware of the positive outcome that exposure to books and reading has on a child’s social and academic development. But what about kids whose parents can’t afford to buy them books? More than 60 percent

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of low-income families have no age-appropriate books in the household for their children. The average middle-class child is exposed to more than 1,000 hours of one-on-one reading versus 25 hours for a low-income child. This is how the BookSpring Reading is Fundamental program can help. Through this program, children receive “forever books” – books they finally get to take home. Books they finally get to write their name in.

Themed events are hosted twice a year in qualifying elementary schools and pre-schools.

Volunteers and school librarians help inspire children to read and learn about different topics so they can select that special book to take home.

Shifts are available from set-up to clean-up, and there are lots of opportunities to interact with and, most importantly, read to the kids. In fact, Regan mentioned that one of the highlights of this placement is getting to spend a lot of time with the children. Additionally, this placement offers the chance for interaction with other League members while volunteering. Keep in mind that this placement historically has few weekend and evening shift options, so it’s likely best for those with flexible schedules. If you would like to learn more about BookSpring, visit bookspring.org.

At work and at play

pictures from Sip and Site See on February 22, 2014

Marla Elm from STG speaking with member Lauren Crawford about the view from Bluffstone Cove at this point

Members before the program

Registration tables

Will & Stephen from STG speaking to members about the design and their participation in the project

STG giving President Kelly Breeden a bag of soil from the new HQ site Bull Creek

President Kelly Breeden

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JLA Members watching the program

President-Elect Gregory Noack with project manager Kevin Fleming from Square One Consulting at a viewpoint stop along the walk

Sustainer Ambasador Pam Willaford speaking to members about the importance of the new facility and her experience in acquiring the current HQ in the early 80s.

Bull Creek facing south toward Bluffstone

JLA Members leaving the site

spotlights

Ericka Freels, Provisional

Education/Occupation: University of Memphis graduate 2009, Bachelor of Liberal Studies Occupation: Design assistant. I work for Sara Scaglione, an interior designer in downtown Austin.

Family: Husband, Justin Freels If I could, I would: Live in Europe and eat at every Italian restaurant possible.

Favorite thing about Austin: I only get to choose one?! In a nutshell, the people, food, healthy lifestyle, downtown, Lady Bird Lake, trails, etc. I could go on forever. Austin is truly a special place.

You wish someone had told you earlier: “Don’t sweat the small stuff… and it’s all small stuff” – Richard Carlson What experience has most changed you: College. The people I met at the University of Memphis have changed my life forever.

My JLA Purpose for 2013-2014 is: To make the most of my time and energy by serving the League and our community. It’s a privilege to be a part of this organization, and I hope to contribute my time wisely and effectively.

Toya West, Provisional Occupation: Phoenix application support analyst at Scott & White Hospital Family: Two sons (10 and 8) and two daughters (3 and 18 months) Pets: Had a Lab/German shepherd puppy named Midnight Snacks (Snacks) Community Activities: Capital Area Food Bank and others I wish I knew how to: Speak Spanish! (fluently) If I could, I would: Uproot my entire family and move to Italy!

What experience has changed you most? Losing my fourth and fifth babies at various stages of pregnancy. Making life or death decisions will change your perspective on things.

Favorite JLA experience so far: ACA and CFK. I met some folks who unknowingly slid some perspective and knowledge my way. I’m ever thankful for it.

My JLA Purpose for 2013-2014 is: To experience all that JLA has to offer by way of community involvement.

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spotlights Amanda Riggs, Active Current Placement: FIT event lead My favorite quote is: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” - Gandhi One thing people wouldn’t know about you: I am a huge fan of rap music!

One thing people would know about you: I will put others’ needs before my own.

Favorite JLA placement: The Resale Shop my Provisional year. This is how I met many of my friends in the League, and it was so much fun going through clothes from decades ago!

Favorite JLA memory or experience: My first general meeting was amazing. There was a guest speaker (whose name I do not remember) but she told the story of the first Junior League in a way that made me feel really proud to be part of such a fantastic organization that started from one person who wanted to make a difference. It very much inspired me!

The best lesson I’ve learned from my JLA experiences is: I have learned, and it is comforting to know, that there are other women who all have the desire to make their community better.

My JLA Purpose for 2013-2014 is: To learn as much about FIT and experience the true impact it has on the community.

Lisa Filemyr, Active Current Placement: Researchers Education/Occupation: BS in computer science from the University of Virginia. Software developer at Double Line Partners Community Activities: Membership and volunteer coordinator of Zilker Theatre Productions Guild, fashion design classes, improv classes, art classes, fundraising committee for Travis County Democratic Party and independent stage manager What experience has changed you most? Last summer, I spent four months driving around the U.S. and Canada by myself. I hit 37 states, three Canadian provinces, 40 historic homes, 10 cheese factories, five chocolate factories, seven national parks and 112 wineries in 115 days.

One thing people wouldn’t know about you: My 10th greatgrandmother was convicted of being a witch in the Salem Witch Trials.

My advice to the provisional class would be: Submit your name for placements you wouldn’t normally consider. JLA is one of the few places you can stretch yourself by trying something outside of your comfort zone.

My JLA Purpose for 2013-2014 is: To strengthen my relationships, both within JLA and in the community.

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spotlights Erika Serna, Transfer Family: Engaged to be married in May Transferring from: Corpus Christi, TX If I could, I would: Invite the Food Network crew over for a cooking demo and dinner Favorite thing about Austin: The food!

My favorite quote is: “Treat everyone kindly, for everyone is fighting a great battle.”

My favorite movie is: The Godfather My favorite junk food is: Chips! Any kind!

Three accomplishments you are proud of: Being a cancer survivor, adopting my beautiful son, living each day to the fullest What experience has changed you most? Having cancer One thing people would know about you: I love to laugh My advice to the Provisional class would be: Be open to making new friends Favorite JLA placement: Community Council VP Favorite JLA memory or experience: Teaching children how to prepare easy and healthy snacks The best lesson I’ve learned from my JLA experiences is: To never underestimate the value of volunteering or the difference it can make in a child’s life.

Sarah Hawthorne, Transfer

Education/Occupation: Oncology RN Pets: Lucy, the solid-white-mitten kitten!

Transferring from: New York Junior League I wish I knew how to: Garden! I really want a green thumb.

Favorite thing about Austin: The fact that my family lives here. Feels good to be home.

My favorite book is: It’s a tie between the Winds of War by Herman Wouk and Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry.

My favorite junk food is: Swedish fish and chips & salsa.

My worst habit is: Procrastination.

You wish someone had told you earlier: Stop stressing. Everything’s going to work out.

What experience has changed you most? Quitting my job in finance to go to nursing school.

When you look in the mirror, you see? At the moment, a big baby bump. My husband, James, and I are due in June!

One thing people wouldn’t know about you: I put IVs in people all day, but I faint when I get one myself. Nurses make the worst patients.

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spotlights Jennifer Bisang, Sustainer Education/Occupation: Global sales director at Emerson Family: Two kids – Maddie (10) and Max (7) Community Activities: Junior Austin Women’s League, Highland Park Elementary Volunteer Favorite thing about Austin: It is weird and I love the restaurants.

My favorite book is: The Great Gatsby My favorite movie is: Dirty Dancing My favorite junk food is: Twix Three accomplishments you are proud of: My husband, my kids and my relationship with my parents You wish someone had told you earlier: Life goes by so fast.

What experience has changed you most? Watching my stepdad battle cancer - twice My advice to the provisional class would be: Make friends, learn about people outside of your social circle Favorite JLA placement: Camp Bluebonnet Favorite JLA memory or experience: Driving to Camp Bluebonnet with Silvia Ward Carden and stopping at the same gas station every day for snacks and a cold drink after a long hot day in the sun. Also dinner at Chez Zee after general meetings.

Teresa Hajdik Werner, Sustainer Education/Occupation: The University of Texas – I currently am CEO of our house and manage our rental properties on the side.

Family: Husband, Todd, and daughter, Ava (10) Pets: Our rescue cat, Belle, and newly adopted dog, Harry Community Activities: Children’s Diabetes Camp of Central Texas Board Member (Camp Bluebonnet) and mentor chair for JDRF Austin Favorite thing about Austin: It’s naturally beautiful.

I’m tired of: Reading food labels that don’t make sense. My daughter is Type 1 Diabetic and Celiac so I read a lot of labels!

What possession are you attached to? My calendar...my husband and I schedule as much as possible, even date nights!

One thing people would know about you: I love to organize and plan.

Favorite JLA placement: Researchers – I loved learning the details about our community partners and how we determine who we support. This is the root of our organization and is a placement that everyone should participate.

My JLA Purpose for 2013-2014 is: To embrace my new membership as a sustainer. It has been slow to acclimate, but I have been figuring out how I want to go out and impact my community on my own!

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jla babies

Congratulations on the arrival of your little one.

Benton Gathings Acton Born to Ellen and Dan Acton on December 18, 2013 Caroline Allegra Shepherd Born to Christina and Robert Shepherd on November 21, 2013

Carter James Ragsdale Born to Carolyn and Adam Ragsdale on November 23, 2013

French Nestor Smith V Born to Tara Akins and French Smith IV on December 18, 2013

Michael Curtis Carroll Born to Sarah and Mike Carroll on November 19, 2013

Ruppel June Grubb Born to Amanda and Kris Grubb on January 11, 2014

Caleb Wayne Oatman Born to Doran and Collin Oatman on October 20, 2013

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jla WEDDINGs

Suzanne Tomlin married Matt Mackowiak at Saint Austin Catholic Church in Austin, TX on January 4, 2014

Rise Lara married Caesar Candelaria at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Austin, TX on January 4, 2014

Ashley Marie Winkler married Elbert Jackson Giles III on December 21, 2013

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jla updates WELCOME TRANSFERS

TRANSFER OUT

Actives: Lauren Free – Boston, MA Jacqueline Liska – Houston, TX

Thank you for your dedicated service to The Junior League of Austin and our community!

Sustainer: Susan Faires – Ft. Worth, TX

Provisional: Colleen Pyle – San Antonio, TX Actives: Michelle Barr – Albuquerque, NM Allison Kotal – San Antonio, TX Stacey Kounelias Chamberlin – San Jose, CA Jamie Krause – Collin Co., TX Haley Terrill – Denver, CO Non-Resident Active: Michelle Mahaffey Desrosiers – Indianapolis, IN

Condolences Those we love never go away; they always remain close to our hearts.

May you find comfort in the treasured memories of good times spent together.

Family of Sophie Perkins on the passing of her grandmother Family and friends of our active League member, Melissa Read

REINSTATEMENT Active: Farrar Lindner Non-Resident Active: Michelle Mahaffey Desrosiers Sustainers: Charlotte Brigham Judy Dozeto Mary Ellen Umstattd

Share Your News!

Please share the following announcements that are taking place in your life with the JLA: births, engagements, weddings, condolences, or notices of an illness of a League Member or her immediate family. Send all details (must include photos for births, engagements and weddings) to Lisa White, administrative services coordinator, at lwhite@jlaustin.org.

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Mark Your CalendarS April 5, 2014 Placement Fair Barton Creek Mall (1st Floor, Macy’s Court Area) 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

April 8, 2014 Placement Fair The Domain (between Starbucks and North Restaurant) 6-9 p.m.

April 15, 2014 Provisional Meeting JLA Auditorium 6:30 p.m.

April 22, 2014 Joint Board Meeting JLA Board Room 7 p.m.

May 5 General Meeting JCC noon RSVP on your member homepage May 6 General Meeting JLA Auditorium 7 p.m.

RSVP on your member homepage

April 17, 2014 80th Anniversary Celebration The Driskill Hotel 5:30 p.m.

May 26 Office closed for Memorial Day

Who we are The Junior League of Austin is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

We’re getting pretty social around here!

Where we are going The Junior League of Austin will strengthen our community through creative solutions to current and future challenges.

Facebook facebook.com/JLAustin.org Twitter twitter.com/jlaustinorg Pinterest pinterest.com/jlaustinorg/ Instagram instagram.com/thejuniorleagueofaustin YouTube youtube.com/user/JuniorLeagueofAustin Email prchair@jlaustin.org if you want to share something!

celebrating 80 years

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