LeagueLines Spring 2017

SPRING 2017 ISSUE

LEAGUELINES THE NEWSLETTER OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN

NEWSLetter Contents

WHY IT’S FUN TO BE FIT!

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

3

SUSTAINING PRESIDENT’S LETTER

4

NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: Girl Empowerment Network

5

MAY WE ENTERTAIN YOU? NEW SPRING EVENT: AUSTIN ENTERTAINS

6

THE LEAGUE AND FUNDRAISING Finance 101

10

THE JLA SOCIAL CORNER 2017-2018 JLA LEADERSHIP

12

JLA 2017 SOCIAL EVENTS (PHOTOS)

16

JLA CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE

18

LOOKING BACK DOWN THE BUNNY TRAIL: BUNNY BRUNCH 2017

20

NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: LITTLE HELPING HANDS

23

TIPS FOR MEMBERSHIP TRANSITION

24

HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS: AMBER CARDEN

26

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

28

MEMBER UPDATES

30

MEMBER TRANSFERS

32

NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: CENTER FOR CHILD PROTECTION

33

2016-2017 WONDERWOMEN OF JLA

34

AUSTIN HUMAINE SOCIETY & JLA

36

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

37

FIT FUN FEST 2017 Photo: Elisa Pate, Laura Lee Daigle, Lorena Legarreta, Sarah Valenzuela, Claudia Legaretta, Rise Candelara

by: JESSICA PRICE This year, the event formerly known as Marathon Kids became an official event of The Junior League of Austin (JLA) called FIT Fun Fest. FIT-Food In Tummies Chair Elissa Pate gave LeagueLines the inside scoop about the change.

The FIT Mission is to educate children, parents, and the community in order to promote nutritional health and maximize student potential, and the FIT vision encompasses that mission with the goal of eliminating weekend hunger in our community and ensuring children and families have knowledge to make informed nutritional choices.

According to Elissa, “FIT Fun Fest directly aligns with the mission and vision of the program. This event allowed [JLA] to promote a healthy lifestyle to not only students but parents and the community.” Elissa summed up the transition for LeagueLines, noting that Del Valle ISD has traditionally participated in Marathon Kids (MK) programming year-round and JLA has been a part of that event for the past three years. However, “a ‘final lap’ event was being held in Austin, and there was just no way to get the DVISD students into Austin for the event. MK held a satellite event for DVISD and JLA and FIT provided volunteer support. During year two, MK was no longer involved, but we wanted to continue to support an event where we could promote healthy lifestyles and have fun, so we held a fitness event in the spring modeled after the final lap event…with a strong desire to grow the event and get more community involvement in Del Valle, we officially named the event FIT Fun Fest,” and the JLA is now running the event solo.

The FIT Fun Fest is essentially a celebration of the Food In Tummies program partnership with Del Valle Independent School District. Hundreds of students, parents, and teachers from the eight participating elementary schools and the community enjoyed a day of fun and nutritional education this year, and JLA hopes to have just as many participants in the coming years as we work with the community to put an end to hunger and to educate kids and parents alike about the importance of nutritional health.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Spring is finally here!

It’s that time of year again! With a little spring in our step and some warm weather, our volunteer opportunities have grown. I think all of us are excited to get outdoors and experience the fresh air. With that in mind, the spring issue of LeagueLines has a very seasonally appropriate theme. Have you ever wondered about how the JLA fundraising works? Turn to page 10, where you can read about “Growing the Green,” a way to see our fundraising dollars and FDC committee hard at work. In keeping with the spring theme, check out the brand new and exciting spring event Austin Entertains article on page 6 or the budding child volunteers involved in the Little Helping Hands program on page 23. Like wildflower seeds, our team has thoughtfully scattered stories and photos of our beautiful JLA members making memories at recent activities and volunteer opportunities throughout the issue. We hope you enjoy this bright and fresh issue of LeagueLines.

Please always keep in mind that we’d love to hear from you, whether it is constructive criticism or patting our team members on the back. If there is a League topic that you would like to learn more about, please email leaguelines@jlaustin.org. We’ll keep striving together to make each issue better and better.

2016-2017 LeagueLines Editor

2016-2017 LEAGUELINES COMMITTEE LeagueLines Editor Andrea Jacobs

Art, Design and Layout Editor Sun Connor

Copy Editor Kristiana Butler

Photography Editor/Photographer Brenna Neal

Art, Design & Layout Assistants Kiley Batjer Liza Willmore

Writers Jessica Price Elizabeth Satchell Rachel Shores Elizabeth Vreeland Keri Bellacosa Walling

Sustaining Advisor Beth Newton

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It’s nearly time to celebrate the end to our League year – and what a year it has been!

LETTER FROM THE

PRESIDENT

Thank you for your tremendous contributions this year. We broke records for Coats for Kids donations and dollars raised for FIT/Amplify Austin. We launched new training programs, spring fundraising events, and created a new JLA website. Our future headquarters and Community Impact Center received 2 building commission approvals and are on track to have our site development permit in hand in the next few weeks. And on top of this, we remain steadfast in our commitments to the Austin non-profit community through our volunteer support of 32 projects.

Our organization is strong and thriving because of our members, and I am humbled by our accomplishments.

A sincere thank you for being a member of The Junior League of Austin and allowing me to serve as your President this year.

2016-2017 JLA President

“What a year it has been!”

Highlights from a few of the MANY 2016-17 JLA events and projects where we’ve spotted Sarah Valenzuela in action.

Sarah Valenzuela with JLA members volunteering and enjoying FIT Fun Fest, benefitting the FIT-Food in Tummies program, March 2017.

Read more about FIT Fun Fest on Page 1.

Sarah Valenzuela and her daughter enjoying the food, fun and friends at Bunny Brunch 2017 in April.

Read more about returning Spring Event: Bunny Brunch on Pages 20-21.

Sarah Valenzuela speaking at the City of Austin’s Environmental Commission meeting regarding the NEW JLA headquarters facilities progress, January 2017. Read the Capital Campaign Update on Page 18.

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LETTER FROM THE

SUSTAINING

PRESIDENT

As we look toward closing another League year, at the same time, we welcome a new chapter for our newest Sustaining members. After serving our non-profits, inLeague programs, and fundraisers as an active, it is now time to sit back a little and support in different and unique ways. It is the best place to be and there is much to look forward to as your new role as Sustaining members of The Junior League of Austin . . . you made it! On page 20 is an article that can help you understand the transition better, but please reach out if you have any thoughts or questions. Don’t forget, next year’s Active leadership will be looking for Sustaining members for committees, so stay tuned if you are interested in serving in this way.

I am personally grateful to have been the Sustaining President this year and am even more impressed with the impact of The Junior League of Austin on our community than ever. It is the past that sets the present in motion, but it is the present JLA members that chart a course for what the future will be. The future looks so bright for the organization that we all hold dear- soon we will be in a new building where we will make new memories and more impact. Those of you who hold our 6th Street Headquarters or Parkcrest as “your League home” know how important that home is to the work that goes on each day. My goal as a Sustainer is for our new Headquarters to be a home for all Sustainers more than any other building has been. I hope we have a renewed sense of wanting to come home—holding gatherings and meetings and working side by side with our Active members.

I have enjoyed serving alongside you this year and thank you each for the support and enthusiasm you continue to show to The Junior League of Austin.

2016-2017 JLA Sustaining President

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New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

GIRL EMPOWERMENT NETWORK (GEN AUSTIN)

How the women of JLA are empowering the Austin women of tomorrow by: ELIZABETH VREELAND In 1996, a group of twelve concerned Austin mothers read a book called Reviving Ophelia by Dr. Mary Pipher, which addressed the increasing trend of low self-esteem in adolescent girls. Originally called the Ophelia Project, the Girls Empowerment Network’s (GEN) mission is “to support and guide girls to make wise choices as they navigate the unique pressures of girlhood.”

Since September, volunteers from The Junior League of Austin (JLA) have had the opportunity to see just how instrumental GEN’s programs are to young girls. GEN has a variety of programs connecting girls with positive role models, developing personal and professional leadership, and some dedicated to learning interviewing and public speaking skills. Currently, JLA volunteers assist with the 180 Program, working with middle and high school girls. The 180 Program is an innovative program for girls who are involved, or at high-risk of becoming involved, with the juvenile justice system. It consists of eight 10-week school sessions where girls practice decision-making and problem-solving skills within peer groups where valuable feedback is given. The JLA volunteer and a GEN employee act as co-mentors to a group of girls. Topics of 180 groups include: making and keeping positive friendships, assertive versus aggressive communication, handling issues with authority, healthy sexuality, teen dating violence/ abuse and dating relationships, drug use and abuse, mother/daughter relationships, goal setting, and future planning.

The Junior League of Austin is a proud partner of GEN as they strive to mentor to young girls during their most vulnerable developmental stages in hopes of making a lasting difference in their lives.

The GEN project chair Elaina Fowler says, “I can truly attest to the success of the 180 Program, as I have seen these girls initiate critical thinking skills and boldly ask questions before acting on impulse in questionable situations.”

- Elaina Fowler, JLA GEN Project Chair

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MAY WE ENTERTAIN YOU? NEW SPRING EVENT: AUSTIN ENTERTAINS by: RACHEL DEDMAN SHORES This spring, The Junior League of Austin Spring Events committee is proud to introduce a new event for members and the community. In correlation with the JLA mission statement, “women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers” the event revolves around the empowerment of women in our community with a focus on the femmes of the local culinary industry. Austin Entertains will offer the opportunity for attendees, both JLA members and other Central Texas residents alike, to socialize while also giving back to the community. This Junior League of Austin volunteer led event is sure provide the masses with a taste of what JLA is all about, the power of women in a community.

This spring, Austin Entertains will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2017, in downtown Austin at Brazos Hall. Attendees will sample savory bites prepared by a variety of female chefs, brewers and other beverage providers. The Junior League of Austin is proud to spotlight these female chefs and beverage providers on the rise, who are volunteering their time, food, and talent to uplift the Central Texas community.

This event has something special for everyone, providing choices for multiple budgets and taste pallets. There are two ticket options: Sold out VIP tickets, which cost $160, provide early bird admission to a VIP lounge, a special cocktail reception from 6:00-7:00 p.m. with passed hor d’oeurves, access to bubbles

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service throughout the event, early entrance to the Grand Tasting, complimentary valet, and a VIP gift bag. Regular admission tickets are $85 and guarantee tastings of the chefs’ creations, craft beer and specialty cocktails, a variety of wine tastings to sip and savor, music by DJ Mel, gourmet samplings from over a dozen of Austin’s finest chefs, access to our rooftop dessert lounge, and various giveaways and take-home gifts provided by Sprinkles Cupcakes and UberEATS. The Committee is excited to bring the new event to those in the League, as well as community members, who enjoy having fun and giving back to the community at the same time. All proceeds will go to the League and will support other League efforts, such as Coats for Kids, A Christmas Affair, and Food In Tummies (FIT), as well as more than 30 community nonprofit organizations. League Members are encouraged to attend or volunteer -- you can sign up via your member homepage. The Committee also strongly encourages League members to bring significant others, family, friends, and co-workers.

#AUSTIN ENTERTAINS

Thursday, May 4th VIP RECEPTION 6:00-7:00 p.m.

GENERAL ADMISSION 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Brazos Hall

JUST A TASTE OF WHAT TICKET HOLDERS WILL ENJOY

Some of the Culinary Artisans Featured at Austin Entertains Alice Gonzalez A&A Provisions

Over the last 9 years, Chef Alice Gonzalez has traveled the world, working with some of the country’s best chefs in Michelin-star restaurants.

After graduating with honors from Johnson & Wales University, she worked abroad at Cliveden Hotel west of London at the Michelin-star Waldo’s restaurant under French chef Daniel Gamiché.

Upon returning to the states, she worked under Chef Todd English at the original Olives restaurant in Charlestown, MA before relocating to Chicago where she worked in a tiny little restaurant called Alinea. She spent two years under Chefs Grant Achatz and Dave Beran and left to become the sous chef at Michelin-star restaurant North Pond where she worked a year before being called back by Chef Achatz to Alinea and Next restaurant.

Robyn Mayo

The Carillon and AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center Chef Mayo brings a wealth of skills and experience in the culinary world to The Carillon as pastry chef. Mayo has held positions at the Ambrosia on Huntington, Garde Manger kitchen at The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach, Black Fin Chophouse and Raw Bar in Boston, and most recently at H&F Bread

Co. in Atlanta, where she was named “Top Artisan Baker” by Dessert Professional Magazine. She’s been showcasing her skills in pastry, bread, fine dining and larger events at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center and The Carillon team since 2014.

Before joining Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa’s culinary team in May 2015, she was the Executive Sous Chef at Morimoto Napa under TFL alum Chef Kang Kaun. When not in the kitchen, Chef Gonzalez likes to raise chickens, forage, garden and enjoys art and nature with her husband.

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Janelle Reynolds

Amanda Pallagi

Chef Janelle is a born and raised Texan. She moved to Austin in 2003 to attend Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School. After graduating, she began her work in many of Austin’s finest restaurants from Vespaio to the Driskill Hotel. While in culinary school, Chef Janelle met her husband, Jayson who is also a chef.

If anyone was born to bake, it’s Amanda Pallagi Naim, Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotel Austin. Growing up in McAllen, Texas, Amanda says it was her grandmother who initially inspired her culinary passion.

At 16, Amanda got her official start ithe restaurant industry as a dessert prep cook at City Café in McAllen, a counter café that sold cookies, brownies and lemon bars as well as whole cakes that were bought from other bakeries. It was easy work that she’d often finish early, so to fill her time the owners let her experiment making her own cakes.

The Four Seasons Hotel

@t large: chef services

Together, the pair formed @t large: chef services in 2008. @t large provides concierge-style chef services that provides restaurant quality food and service in their client’s homes. Chef Janelle spends much of her time cooking for clients in and around Austin and the Texas Hill Country. The pair of chefs team up for larger scale events such as weddings, corporate events and holiday parties.

You may even recognize Chef Janelle from the Food Network’s hit show, Chopped! She competed on and won Chopped in 2013.

Amanda Rockman

South Congress Hotel, Mañana

Amanda Rockman’s interest in the culinary field began at an early age. Growing up in Katy, Texas, she was inspired by the dinner parties her mom would throw for friends. Rockman remembers seeing her mom dust the outline of the Kremlin on a chocolate sachertorte, thinking it was the coolest thing she’d seen. Her mom’s passion for food sparked the same interest in her.

Rockman went on to attend The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, where she received her A.O.S. in Baking and Pastry Arts and completed an internship under Emily Luchetti at Farallon in San Francisco.

Her career then took her to Chicago, where she worked at the acclaimed TRU, Spring, three Michelin-starred L.2o, and The Peninsula Hotel. Rockman also opened The Bristol, Balena and Thompson Hotel’s Nico Osteria as Executive Pastry Chef.

Having previously worked in Austin as Executive Pastry Chef at Fino and Asti, Rockman returned to Texas in 2015 as Executive Pastry Chef at South Congress Hotel. There, she oversees the pastry and bakery programs for in-room dining, banquets, and the hotel’s four food & beverage outlets: Café No Sé, Central Standard, Mañana Coffee & Juice, and the Stephen F. Frostin’ ice cream truck.

Rockman was named a James Beard Foundation Award Semifinalist in 2015, received the Jean Banchet Pastry Chef of the Year Award in 2011 and 2012, and was named Chicago Tribune’s Pastry Chef of the Year in 2012. She has appeared on Top Chef Just Desserts, Hungry Hound, The Better Show, and Windy City Live. She currently writes her own pastry blog, Pastrylandia.

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Following graduation from St. Edwards University, a connection at Four Seasons Hotel Austin helped her get an interview for a hostess position in the Hotel’s newly launched restaurant, TRIO. In October 2009, Amanda transferred from the front-ofthe-house to the Hotel’s pastry department as a cook.

Over the next five years, Amanda took on increasing levels of responsibility, establishing herself as a right-hand woman to Executive Pastry Chef, Javier Franco, and earning her own accolades both in the media and at the Hotel. So when Javier transferred to Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara in late-2015, Amanda was a natural pick to fill the head pastry role.

She also fell in love with the inner workings of the pastry shop. In October 2009, Amanda transferred from the front-of-the-house to the Hotel’s pastry department as a cook.

Over the next five years, Amanda took on increasing levels of responsibility, establishing herself as a right-hand woman to Executive Pastry Chef, Javier Franco, and earning her own accolades both in the media and at the Hotel. So when Javier transferred to Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara in late-2015, Amanda was a natural pick to fill the head pastry role.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys exploring the ever-changing food and drink scene in Austin with her husband. And she still loves to cook at home: “Although I’m in the kitchen all day at work, it’s a whole different ball game cooking savoury food at home. If I bake desserts at home, it’s usually for someone I love.”

Anabelle Turner Vox Table

Originally from Texas, Annabelle Turner was able to travel extensively, both through school and with her family, around Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Her favorite part of traveling was trying local cuisines, and there was nothing too odd or unusual for her to try at least once. Turner applied as a line cook at Paggi House,

but the only opening there was for a pastry

assistant. She landed the job and decided to take a chance. She found that desserts and pastries were her strong suit. After about a year, the original pastry chef left the restaurant. Turner swiftly took his place and has worked as a pasty chef ever since. In addition to Paggi House, Turner spent time working at Perla’s Seafood Oyster Bar, Vanilla Orchid Catering and Pastry Chef at Nightcap before securing a pastry chef position at VOX Table. Her desserts are decadent and without boundaries.

Alma Alcocer-Thomas El Alma, El Chile Group

Originally from Mexico City, Chef Alma Alcocer came to Austin in 1989 by way of Le Cordon Blue culinary academy in Paris. After lending her skills to a brief stint in catering, Alcocer found herself working at nationally-recognized fine dining restaurant, Jeffrey’s, in Austin. Under celebrated Chef David Garrido’s skillful hand, Alcocer quickly moved through the kitchen from sous chef to executive chef upon Garrido’s departure.

After Alcocer left Jeffrey’s; longtime friend, Carlos Rivero, asked her to join the team of Austin Tex-Mex favorite, El Chile. It quickly became evident to both that a restaurant of Alcocer’s own was long overdue. The two crafted a plan to create a concept that would blend her classical training with her Mexico City roots for a homespun take on authentic Mexican dishes, and El Alma was born.

Today, Alcocer can be found at both El Alma and a new eatery called Alcomar, concocting new Mexican seafood delights that reflect her own style as well as the evolving palates of Austinites. Diners are greeted with her infectious smile and inviting hospitality, as if you were dining in her own home.

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It’s Spring!LET’S LEARN ABOUT

GROWING THE GREEN

The League and Fundraising Finance 101 by: ELIZABETH SATCHELL Have you ever wondered how The Junior League of Austin (JLA) grows funds that support our programs and our non-profits?

Let’s learn how we “Grow the Green!”

Who is responsible for growing funds for JLA? The Fund Development Council is the group responsible for growing funds for The Junior League of Austin. The team reaches out through a variety of means to individuals, businesses, and foundations in order to gather funds.

How are donations received?

Can donations be earmarked for a certain program?

cash donations from individual community members and corporations. These could come in the form of annual contributions, planned giving, major gifts, or one-time donations.

Donors can choose how they would like to apply their donations. Donors can decide to apply their donation to a specific signature program like FIT-Food In Tummies or to a specific special event like A Christmas Affair. Donors also have the option to give their donation with no restrictions, which means the donation will be used as JLA sees fit to support the overall organization mission.

Grants – Grants are funds provided by a foundation or

How can I help?

Donations Can Come In Many Varieties:

Individual/Corporate Donations – These donations include

corporation that help support a specific JLA signature program.

Grants require that an application or proposal be submitted to the potential funder.

The JLA Grants committee works all year long to ensure funding schedules are met and grant terms are maintained.

Matching Gifts – Matching Gifts are charitable donations by an

employer that match an employee’s donation to an eligible nonprofit organization.

Members can check with the HR department of their employers to find out if their company matches donations to non-profits.

Sponsorships – Sponsorships are corporate and individual funds that help support JLA special events while at the same time providing brand visibility for the sponsor.

There are are many ways JLA members can help support the Fund Development Committee grow funds. A great way to start supporting the team is to plant the seeds of awareness in the community. As a JLA member, you have first-hand insight into what our mission is as an organization, and you have your own personal experiences that are invaluable when shared with people in the community who may not know about our mission.

Members are also welcome to ask for donations to one of our signature programs like FIT or Coats for Kids, or to encourage community members to join in on fundraising events like our recent Amplify Austin campaign. Members should check with the Fund Development Committee before soliciting donations.

If you have a lead on a prospective corporate sponsor or you would like to provide an in-kind donation to a JLA special event, the FDC is always looking for new sponsors and they have a prospective sponsor form that you can use to alert the team to a new lead. One final way to help the FDC is to always thank any of our sponsors when you visit their stores or businesses.

In-Kind Donations – In-Kind Donations are non-cash donations provided to JLA that maximize our resources and raise additional funds. Examples of In-Kind Donations include silent auction items, big-ticket raffle items, catering, printing, and design services.

The FDC works all year long to grow our funds in any way possible, and for that reason, anyone can donate at any time all year long as well using this link: Donate Now. Just $5 can fill a FIT backpack and $15 can buy a warm winter coat for a child in our community.

If you have a product or service you’d like to donate, please email FDC at inkindcoordinator@jlaustin.org.

Now that you know all about fund development, spread the word and take part in Growing the Green!

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Thank You 2016-2017 Financial Development Committee!

Pictured Right

Lorena Legarreta Kimberly Batrice Ashley Behara Kristin Campbell Courtney DeBower Eileen Eiden Kimberly Galloway

Courtney Groves Crystal Kaylakie Kinski Moss Sarah Charbonnet Kristen Reynolds Lydia Valdes

Lorena Legarreta

Vice President Financial Development Chair (FDC): *Questions about FDC or have a donor suggestion?

Contact: funddevelopmentvp@jlaustin.org

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THE JLA

SOCIAL CORNER

Keeping You Up-to-date With Social Opportunities Within The Junior League of Austin

LeagueLines was pleased to catch up with a few of the members of the 2017-18 Leadership team for a quick Q&A. Get ready to fall in love with these gals! Next year is going to be GREAT! by: JESSICA PRICE

Julie Hall

Amy Hurt

2017-2018 Placement: President

2017-2018 Placement: President - Elect

Quick facts:

Quick Facts:

Graduated from Indiana University and now runs a global operations team at Dell.

Julie is married to Garrett and they have two daughters: Kendall, 13 and Parker, 10. The Halls have a fur baby, Bella who is the “most expensive rescue dog known to man” as she is recovering from her fourth ACL surgery.

Amy graduated from TCU with a degree in Social Work and is now an advertising producer. She has a very large family and one fur baby, Milly, a Shih Tzu.

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the

coming League year?

JH: I look forward to seeing movement on the building and also increasing the League’s impact on the community.

It’s going to be a big year for JLA, and I am honored to be a part of it.

coming League year?

AH: I’m looking forward to serving alongside the amazing women who have been chosen as the Junior League of Austin leadership team for 2017-2018, and watching and learning as I go. I want to soak up as much of their wisdom as possible during the next year and know it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

JH: Slow down and enjoy the ride. Always make an effort to

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

AH: My advice to the Provisional class would be simply this: Try

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the

focus on the big picture, what the League is accomplishing in the community and as an organization, and don’t get caught up in some of the day-to-day details. Keep your eye on the prize.

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placements that are out of your comfort zone. It can be a great learning experience!

Genny Hill

Lauren Price

2017-2018 Placement: Treasurer - Elect

2017-2018 Placement: Recording Secretary

Quick Facts:

Quick facts:

Genny’s family owns several car dealerships in Austin, and she keeps busy helping run the family business. She is married to Chris and they have a one-anda-half year old son named James and a baby girl due in June. They have two fur babies, Charlie, a 9-year-old Blue Lacey, and Piper, a 4-year-old English Cocker Spaniel.

Lauren owns a book keeping business; has been in Austin since 4th grade, which makes her a local; and stays busy with three children: 13-year-old Braeden, 11-yearold Owen, and 9-year-old Merrill. She and her husband, Derrick, also have two golden retrievers named Lucy and Yeti.

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the

I am looking forward, also, to getting to know the other members of the leadership team!

coming League year?

LP: Well, this will be my last year in League, sadly.

I have served on the board, previously, as treasurer and community VP, and I am looking forward to being on the board for my final year. I love having the opportunity to be a support to the president and the other board members in any way that I can.

This will be a big year for the League since we will be breaking ground on the building! I can’t wait to see where the League is going and to be a part of it all this year.

Amanda Eldridge

Carrie Semple

2017-2018 Placement: Community VP

2017-2018 Placement: Membership Development VP

coming League year?

GH: I look forward to seeing progress on the Capital Campaign and breaking ground on the new building.

As Treasurer, I know I will be learning a lot more about the ins and outs regarding how the League works.

Quick facts:

Amanda works for a bank in a niche area of banking called premium finance. Amanda and her husband Bryant will celebrate their two-year anniversary in June and have three fur babies: Golden Retriever Ainsley, Big Guy the cat, and an 18-month-old beagle named Peanut.

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

AE: Absorb everything and know that this will be the busiest

year you will have. Ask as many questions as possible and know that you have a huge League of women who are there to support you.

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the

Quick Facts:

Carrie is an attorney who has been at home with her sweet family for the past seven years.

She’s recently started working part-time during the legislative session. She is married to Chas and they have three boys: Carter, 7, Henry, 5, and Teddy, almost 3. The Semples also have two fur babies, Bess and Bailey.

JLA: Are you a little nervous about it all?

CS: Sure, but mostly I’m just really excited. I was a part of

membership a few years ago and it’s so important for our members, truly, so I’m excited.

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Nicole Elliott

Leslie Moore

2017-2018 Placement: Nominating Chair

2017-2018 Placement: Strategic Planning

Quick Facts:

Quick Facts:

8-year-old daughter, Sarah; husband, Ken; dog Nikko

JLA: What are you looking

forward to most in the coming League year?

NE: Looking forward to getting to know the ladies that will be on the Nominating Committee. Working with nominating committee has been one of her favorite placements so looking forward to the dynamics and friendships that evolved the first time. No drama.

Leslie volunteers with her church and her sorority. She also enjoys travelling; in fact, she just got back froma month-long trip to Antarctica!

Leslie and her husband Jonathan have one dog named Ted.

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the

coming League year?

LM: I am looking forward to serving on the board for the first time and playing a role in setting the course for the League a year in advance.

JLA: Do you have a favorite JLA placement?

LM: I was ACA Chair. It was an amazing opportunity and

experience. I made memories that will last a lifetime. But what do I do with all of this free time? HA!

Ashley Hight

Elizabeth Andrews

2017-2018 Placement: Parliamentarian/ Bylaws

2017-2018 Placement: Admin VP

Quick Facts:

I’m a serial entrepreneur with a husband named Tyler, and a daughter named Ainsleigh.

Ashley is a stay-at-home mom and is married to Trace. They have four kids: Harrison, 9; Jackson, 7; Mason, 5; and Haley, 3.

They also have a Shih Tzu named Lily and a golden doodle puppy named Poppy

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the coming League year?

AH: Being back on the Board as the Bylaws/ Parliamentarian...and much slower email load.

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

AH: This experience is what you make of it - go to the socials, reach out and get to know others, soak in the experience and I promise you will see the joy in serving.

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Quick Facts:

JLA: What are

you looking forward to most in the coming League year?

EA: I’m looking forward to serving the League on the Admin Council this year. The Administrative Council handles so many of the nuts and bolts of General Meetings, HQ operations, and calendar decisions (and more of course), it’s going to be wonderful serving in this capacity with all of the outstanding women who are on the council this year!

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

EA: Take advantage of opportunities to serve in-League.

It is a fantastic opportunity to get to know and understand the JLA.

Laura Lee Daigle

Shannon Creekmur

2017-2018 Placement: Communications VP

2017-2018 Placement: Fund Development VP

Quick Facts:

Quick Facts:

Laura Lee is a graphic designer and is married to Clay. They have three boys: Henry, John Clayton, and Ned, as well as a beagle named Maggie.

Shannon is a Project manager with the Department of State Health Services and has a 10-pound ball of fur named Sam.

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the coming

League year?

LLD: I’m looking forward to expanding on the work I did this year as PR/Marketing Chair. I am very excited about my team.

I’m going to see it all fit together this year, which is going to be rewarding and fun.

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

LLD: It’s exciting and fun to be a part of JLA. I love that

JLA: What are you looking forward to most in the coming

League year?

SC: I’m looking forward to the challenge of FDC VP. Donor solicitation is not in my comfort zone, but I get to work on this skill with the support of JLA!

JLA: Any advice to the Provisional class?

SC: Hang in there, you’ve got this!

roles change. Always put your all into each placement but remember that it will change in a year. It’s great training, so even if something isn’t a perfect fit, you’re going to grow and you’re going to go forward to something else. Soak up every experience and enjoy it!

TO THE 2017-2018 JLA

LEADERSHIP TEAM

The Nominations Committee has been busily meeting and selecting the new Leadership roster for the next league year. The names are in!

President President Elect Treasurer Treasurer Elect Recording Secretary Community VP Membership Dev VP Nominating Chair Strategic Planning Parliamentarian/ Bylaws Admin VP Communications VP Fund Development VP Technology Chair In League Events GM Chair Headquarters Leaguelines Researchers

Julie Hall Amy Hurt Ann Townsend Genny Hill Lauren Price Amanda Eldridge Carrie Semple Nicole Elliott Leslie Moore Ashley Hight Elizabeth Andrews Laura Lee Daigle Shannon Creekmur Michelle Lupton Julia Ott Elisa Pate Suzanne Mackowiak Lauren Cronin Lydia Valdes

Focus Area Co-Chairs: Eileen Eiden and Sarah Charbonnet Provisional Chair Meagan Longley Provisional Elect Robin Burch FDC Support Keri Walling CFK Chair Rachel Zander CFK Elect Deanna Schobey Grants Chair Haley Gardiner Grants Elect Stefanie Bertram ACA Chair Stacy Reed ACA Elect Lyndsay Crawford PR/Marketing Chair Rise Candelaria PR/Marketing Elect Andrea Jacobs Capitalines Chair Missy Sharpe Capitalines Elect Kendall Guinn Fit Chair Katy Andre Fit Elect Carrie Leising Placement Chair Lisa Filemyr Placement Elect Stephanie Laurich

Training & Ed Debra Doliner ACA Decorations Co-Chairs: Bethany Weigl and Melissa Tait ACA Merchant Co-Chairs Julia Null and Andrea Pratt ODI Representatives: Robin Burch and Rise Candelaria Spring Events Chair Natalie Sheridan Spring Events Elect Julie Hildebrand Board Members at Large: Minty Sellers Tania Leskovar-Owens Nominating Committee: Elissa Pate Leslie Moore Meredith Clark Stefanie Bertram Paige Morgan Elizabeth Hadley Laura Lee Daigle

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You & No-Makeup at Sephora

February 19, 2017

Meredith Sturgeon and JLA Friend

Bunny Brunch

April 1, 2017

Courtney Dickey and Family Rachel Ferguson and Family

AMPLIFY Austin Watch Party at Juliet March 2, 2017

April Small Group Meetings

April 4, 2017

FIT Fun Fest

February 25, 2017

Lorena Legarreta and Claudia Legarreta

Bunny Brunch April 1, 2017 Amy Hurt and Julie Hall

by: RACHEL DEDMAN SHORES The Capital Campaign is moving forward to help provide The Junior League of Austin with the facilities that we need in order to continue functioning as such a successful League!

A little history: The League’s Capital Campaign oversees the fundraising side of the League’s goal of creating a new space in which we can meet and work. This journey began in 2010, when the League started the purchase of the last remaining tract of land along Loop 360 (also known as Capital of Texas Highway).

The location is ideal, as it sits in the heart of Austin and therefore will be accessible to members and community groups who will benefit from this space. In 2012, the Capital Campaign Committee began raising critical funds to help make the project a reality.

A more recent look: This League year brought about critical milestones in the building process. We were successful at two city commission hearings. In January many of our active members joined our leadership at the City of Austin’s Environmental Commission where we were successful in gaining approval of minor environmental variances. The beauty of this site will be preserved, and our new construction is working to limit the environmental impact of the 10 acre site. Our second commission hearing was also successful with the Zoning and Platting Commission. We received unanimous support for the remaining items needed for our site development permit application. The final pieces with City of Austin attorneys should wrap up in the next 4-6 weeks.

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The Capital Campaign Committee strives for full League donor participation in order to help demonstrate to the Austin community that League members are invested in this project.

The Campaign team recognizes the realities of this goal and has worked on reaching out to members, grant applications, and partnering with the Sustaining members on the Steering Committee. So far, 38% of our active and 55% of our provisional members have donated to the cause. Gifts come in all sizes and can be made over five year periods to help meet the needs of our donors.

Any type of support is invaluable to the continued existence of the League. Our current location’s size and facilities have not grown to meet the increased size and demands of our membership and community projects. We often must rent facilities in order to conduct meetings and store materials and supplies, which is a use of resources that could go towards other, more charitable parts of our mission.

We anticipate a groundbreaking in 2017 with more successes on both the building and campaign front to come. In addition to helping us achieve our mission, the new building should be able to assist others with theirs. Not only is this a place for our membership to operate – but a place for community leaders and other non-profits to gather and convene meetings to help improve the Austin community.

Please join us in supporting our future and bettering the Austin community!

Thank You 2016-2017 Capital Campaign Committee!

Pictured Below

Julia Null Jennifer Butterworth Priscilla Cortez Jolie Cypert Shelly Edwards Nicole Elliott Erin Franz Ericka Freels Vanessa Fuentes

Donna Ingram Siiri Marquardt Pim Mayo Maggie Neusel Lauren Price Lauren Shallcross Kristi Simmons Jeni Williams

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LOOKING BACK DOWN THE BUNNY TRAIL:

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL BUNNY BRUNCH by: JESSICA PRICE

The second annual Bunny Brunch was, as expected, a fabulous event for everyone in attendance. The perfect weather and beautiful setting at the UT Golf Club set the scene for a truly memorable event. The children in attendance had a wonderful time exploring all of the activities that the Bunny Brunch team prepared, which included the adorable petting zoo, cupcake decorating, and pictures with Wendell the bunny. The highly anticipated egg hunt included 3,000 eggs filled with candy, and watching the kids enjoy the hunt was a highlight for all attendees. Parents were treated to fabulous treats, delicious drinks, and quality time with friends while enjoying live entertainment. The JLA was thrilled with the fantastic turnout: 386 guests, including 181 children. The JLA would like to thank the seventeen local vendors and thirty-seven volunteers who made this wonderful day possible.

Events like Bunny Brunch are a memorable and family friendly way for The Junior League of Austin to raise money for programs like FIT-Food In Tummies, and to remind our members and the community that we are an organization working hard to create opportunities to give back to our city in unique ways. When a family-friendly function such as Bunny Brunch can serve as a means for raising essential funds for core programs like FIT, it is a win-win situation for all in attendance. We are so grateful for the opportunity to come together as a League, enjoy each other’s company, and give back at the same time.

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From JLA Member Guests,

Favorite Parts of

Bunny Brunch?

Sarah Nigrini

ACA Decorations Assistant This was our second year attending Bunny Brunch and our family had a blast. The decor was gorgeous down to every tiny detail and my children LOVED the petting zoo and putting green. Thanks to the Spring events committee for planning this wonderful event!

Andrea Jacobs

LeagueLines Editor My family especially loved the petting zoo this year. There were so many different animals like turtles, dragons, chickens, bunnies and guinea pigs to pet. My two year old son fell in love with the dragon.

You could really tell that the Spring Events committee put a lot of thought into the details. It was such a cheerful event!

Thank You 2016-2017 Spring Events Committee!

Pictured Above

Elizabeth Vreeland

LeagueLines Writer

Highlights for my family included photos with Wendel the bunny, playing Putt Putt, and petting a baby hedgehog at the Tiny Tails To You Petting zoo!

Mary Grace Mooney Natalie Sheridan Julie C. Hildebrand Emily Jung Claire Grady Cynthia Valadez-Mata Heather Van Horn Nicole Emrich Christine Marks Stacey Mayes

Laura McGibney Abbi Miller Dana Harris Laura Thomas Amanda Goodwin Ellen Decareau Darby Berra Julie Busch Johnson Tammy Busch

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386

GUESTS ATTENDED

37

181

CHILDREN ATTENDED THE EVENT

JLA VOLUNTEERS WHO ASSISTED

37

Bunny Brunch 2017 17

LOCAL VENDORS SPONSORED AND PARTICIPATED

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3,000

COLORED EGGS FILLED WITH CANDY

New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

LITTLE HELPING HANDS

by: ELIZABETH VREELAND Founded in 2009 in Austin, Little Helping Hands (LHH) facilitates family volunteering by organizing and leading kid-friendly activities. The mission of Little Helping Hands is to engage children in volunteerism and empower them to make differences in their communities. The volunteer activities support a range of causes, including homelessness, children and families in need, animal welfare, youth development/education, elderly care, and the environment. Activities are appropriate for children ranging from ages 3 to 17 years old. Each activity will list age requirements and suggestions to help guide parents in selecting volunteer opportunities. For example, in the outreach area of alleviating homelessness, the activities of cooking meals and organizing the pantries are geared more toward the older children and teens, while making cards and decor for the shelter can be for any age. Through Little Helping Hands’ activity calendar, parents can view a wide variety of hands-on volunteer opportunities appropriate for their children and can sign up directly, making it simple for families to experience the value of community service together in a fun environment.

Little Helping Hands is an outstanding organization with great community impact. In 2016, it reported 13,088 total volunteer hours of service, with 5,832 youth volunteers from 3,185 volunteer families, serving 87 nonprofits. The JLA volunteers have assisted Little Helping Hands by coordinating individual volunteer activities for kids, including bagging groceries for Micah 6 Food Pantry, making and serving dinner for the Ronald McDonald House guests, and crafting with the Westminster Manor senior residents. Courtney Robbins, the Little Helping Hands Project Chair, said she “specifically chose the placement because I agree with LHH’s mission… there are so many volunteer activities available for adults, but it’s much more difficult to find things a child can participate in as well.”

“It’s nice to see the look on my son’s face when he began to understand the benefits of assisting someone in need. It takes the attention off of “MEME- ME!” and his little mind goes into overdrive with curiosity on every detail of the task at hand.

For example, we’re still discussing the swim safety bracelets he helped make for Colin’s Hope - TWO months ago! He feels good about helping someone else. That’s why my family’s so grateful for all Marissa Vogel and staff at Little Helping Hands have continuously provided for the Austin community. Little Helping Hands is a great way to get the entire family involved.”

- Sun Connor, JLA Volunteer and parent of a child Little Helping Hands Volunteer

Pictured Above: Connor crafting awareness bracelets for Colin’s Hope, March 2017

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TIPS FOR MEMBERSHIP TRANSITION

from Pro-V to Active and Active to Sustainer by: KERI BELLACOSA WALLING The 2016-17 League year is coming to a close. For most of us, we’re gearing up for a new placement and might have already heard from our new committee chair. But hundreds of members are gearing up to take a different kind of leap: transitioning into the next step of League membership.

There are three stages of membership in The Junior League of Austin: Provisional, Active, and Sustainer membership. Actually, there are four. Who knew? After a Sustainer reaches the age of 80, that member is known as Emeritus. Something to strive for!

First Year Active

Alicia Downard Alicia Downard is a first-year Active and loving her new role in the JLA. She volunteers at the Sustainable Food Center’s Taste the Place at the weekly farmers market. Here is her take on her transition to Active:

As we all know, Provisional year puts your passion for serving the community—and your ability to juggle your schedule— to the test. Thirty-two hours with the FIT-Food in Tummies program, regular meetings, additional service projects and “mandatory” social events—okay, twist my arm—make up the requirements of a Provisional member.

“The transition to Active was smooth, largely because I was prepared by my Provisional team leadership on what to expect,” Alicia said. “I went into my first Active year knowing that there would be fewer opportunities to interact with League members outside my placement and general meetings. Through the League’s outreach efforts—LeagueLines, the newsletter and social media—I feel up-to-date on the League’s events and projects.”

For the 200 Provisionals this year, we extend our congratulations.

Your League career is about to become a whole lot more manageable. Your requirements have been reduced to a fraction of the mandatory meetings you once had to attend, one A Christmas Affair shift, and (only) about 50 hours in your community placement.

Alicia credits her Provisional team lead, Tima Brown, for creating group cohesion during her Provisional year. Her group still keeps in touch through social media and continues to have monthly meet-ups. Bravo!

I know. I can hear you cheering from the other side of town. But some first-year Actives immediately feel a change that leaves many missing those small group gatherings and connectedness they enjoyed while going to the millionth mandatory activity as a Provisional.

For those making the Provisional-to-Active transition this year, Alicia has a few recommendations: “Be flexible when it comes to your community placement!

Also, it’s important to be proactive and maintain a line of communication with your project chair and/or placement pointof-contact, once you’re placed.” Great advice.

Similar to transitioning to the open waters of Active membership, earning Sustainer status comes with a big change, too. Members have the option to graduate to Sustainer status at the age of 40, and required to go Sustainer at the age of 45.

Those first Tuesdays of the month are no longer “on auto” on your calendar. Previewing the incredible 200+ merchants setting up shop at the Palmer Event Center in November—I mean, completing your ACA obligation—is a nostalgic pastime.

Instead, Sustainer opportunities include annual financial support of JLA, mentorship, and social gatherings.

2016 December Provisional Meeting at the State Capital

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“I made the transition to being a Sustainer easier by attending the May Sustainer event with other Sustainer friends,” said Tina McCutchin. “I have a group of Sustainer friends and we plan to attend the events together.”

JLA Membership 2016-2017 Actives

1011

39%

E R

Provisionals

218

Sustainers

1254

9%

49%

3%

AVERAGE AGE: 34 AVERAGE AGE: 31 AVERAGE AGE: 61 AVERAGE AGE: 33

Transfers

80

TOTAL MEMBERS

2563 100% AVERAGE AGE: 50 Holly Mace Massingill, also a former ACA Chair among other leadership roles, is in her third year of being a Sustainer.

She encourages qualified members to strongly consider Sustainership.

“I renew my sustaining membership annually because I believe it is so important for me to continue to support an organization that has given me so much,” Holly said. “I learned a great deal as an Active member of the JLA and I want to make sure we stay around to provide those same opportunities for generations of women to come.”

Sustainer

Tina McCutchin Tina served as ACA Chair for “Christmas in the City” in 2014.

She said after being highly involved as a JLA member, she now channels her craving for community service in other avenues, such as serving in the National Charity League with her daughter.

Tina credits JLA and ACA for some of her best friends— friends she still routinely meets and occasionally travels with. “I still keep in touch with two of my closest friends, Lisa Kaspar and Michele Roach, whom I met on the A Christmas Affair committee trip to Carmel, California, almost 10 years ago. We meet for lunch, movies, happy hours, or even text at least once a week. We also attend A Christmas Affair together every year. In the last year we have been on two trips— Watercolor and Telluride. I would have never met these girls if it weren’t for the JLA.”

Her legacy? Holly says she loves the mentorship aspect being a Sustainer offers.

“For me personally, my favorite part is the phone calls I get from Active members who want to brainstorm with me about the pros and cons of possible placements,” Holly said. “I adore supporting women in their leadership path in the JLA.”

Sustainer

Holly Mace Massingil 2 5 I L E AG U E L I N E S

Highlighting JLA Members, Who Are Taking What They’ve Learned From League Experience and Applying Their Skills To Other Community Projects

LeagueLines is proud to present Amber Carden, JLA Sustainer, and honorary chair of the recent Con Mi MADRE Corazon Awards that took place in February.

Currently in Central Texas, only 86% of Latinas are graduating from high school, 47% are entering college, and of those Latina students, only 15% earn their college degree.

AMBER CARDEN

Honorary Event Chair for Con Mi MADRE’s Corazón Awards by: KERI BELLACOSA WALLING

Con Mi MADRE—originally a JLA program and now a successful 501(c)(3) non-profit—is working to change this. In fact, Con Mi MADRE provides young Latinas in Central Texas with a 260% better chance at earning a college education because the organization empowers young Latinas and their mothers through education and support services that increase preparedness, participation, and success in post-secondary education.

That’s where Amber came in this past year, as she served as the honorary chair for the organization’s annual Corazon Awards—a fundraising event recognizing community leaders who are living out the organization’s mission with Con Mi MADRE and beyond.

2 6 I L E AG U E L INE S

“Con Mi MADRE was a League project during my active years and I am well aware that for Texas to maintain a healthy economic status, we must address the gaps in our education system,” Amber said. She attended the annual Corazon Awards events as a supporter for many years. In addition, Amber is an annual donor for the Madrina Circle. Amber credits JLA for her passion for the community and leadership training.

“The League was my eyes to our community. It gave me a more organized and deeper perspective to issues that exist within our own region around food scarcity, education gaps, and diversity,” Amber said. “The League unlocked a passion of wanting to make a difference and helped develop the relationships that exist today to make that happen.”

Relationships like fellow League members Vanessa Fuentes, Bianca Garcia, and Deisy Jaimes. These JLA members also served on the Corazon Awards committee, and all give JLA a nod for developing their leadership skills for this big role.

“The League has been instrumental in shaping me into the leader I am today,” Vanessa told LeagueLines. “Through my experiences serving on the Capital Campaign Committee and volunteering with Dress for Success during my community placement, I have been empowered to be a catalyst for change and advance the JLA mission.”

And she did just that. Vanessa served as chair for the awards event, reaching a record in fundraising for the organization; $185,000, to be exact, supporting Con Mi MADRE’s Postsecondary Participation Program, which guides and assists young Latinas in 11th and 12th grades and their mothers through the college exploration and application processes.

“JLA has provided a number of important skill sets. JLA has taught me to respect others’ time, run efficient and organized meetings, and to use community partners to help make events a success.” Bianca said. She will serve as Corazon Awards chair next year, and admits she has big shoes to fill. The JLA is behind you, cheering you on, Bianca! “Be the change you want to see,” Deisy said. “Get to know strong women who are not like you, hear what they have to say and where they come from. We all have the same goal of making this place a better one and succeeding. Recognize that we all have strengths and weakness, which we learn from. Learn from those what will make you better and always give back.”

“I seldom work on a community project today where I don’t first reach out to my JLA friends to gather their interest and support,” Amber said. “With that kind of talent in the equation, anything is possible.”

Photo:

2017 Corazon Committee Members that are also JLA members: Amber Carden, Vanessa Fuentes, Bianca Garcia and Deisy Jaimes

2 7 I L E AG U E L I N E S

ACTIVE

Leslie Pardue 2016-2017 Placement: Administrative Treasurer One thing people would know about you: My parents both had brown hair and brown eyes. No clue where the red hair and blue eyes came from.

Favorite JLA memory or experience: Bringing my boy up to Palmer Event Center for Coats for Kids. It gave them a real appreciation for what it means when mom is missing dinner because she is at Junior League.

The best lesson learned from a JLA experiences is: Patience, and respecting that there is more than one way to accomplish success.

What are you looking forward to next year?

I am looking forward to working on the Capital Campaign team next year to finalize funding for the events center. The Junior League of Austin has worked so hard on this project and I look forward to closing the fundraising chapter next year.

TRANSFER

Katie Canavan Transferred from: San Francisco One thing people would know about you: I have the loudest laugh.

Favorite thing about Austin: Breakfast tacos.

The best lesson learned from a JLA experiences is: Learning to talk to strangers, it’s a much-needed skill.

What are you looking forward to next year?

Moving in with my boyfriend!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Members are chosen at random through the Member Directory online

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PROVISIONAL

Denise Barela 2016-2017 Placement: Food in Tummies - FIT One thing people would know about you: I’m fiercely loyal to my family and friends.

Favorite thing about Austin: There’s always something to do. I love exploring the city with my husband, but my absolute favorite thing to do with my husband and boys is the Zilker Zephyr!

TRANSFER

Favorite JLA memory or experience: My favorite JLA memory/experience was during one of my Provisional meetings in the fall. We were instructed to make a pumpkin that represented JLA well. My team, Team Herman, carved a pumpkin that had the FIT-Food In Tummies logo on it.

The pumpkin represented a FIT backpack. We did such an amazing job we won the contest! The pumpkin was displayed in the FIT pantry. We were so proud of that pumpkin! This experience made us closer as a team.

Favorite thing about Austin: That many people are so thrilled just to be here, no matter what their job is; the weather and outdoor activities; the grocery stores and the FOOD!

What are you looking forward to next year?

I’m looking forward to: A Christmas Affair, learning more about JLA, meeting new people with my new placement, and continuing to serve the Austin area with amazing women who are wanting to do the same.

What are you looking forward to next year?

I look forward to using my Wall Street proposal writing experience to further the Grants committee and its beneficiaries. I also hope to be placed in a future position that will positively impact the lives of hungry children as much as possible.

Danielle Weiss Allen Transferred from: Lafayette, LA

The best lesson learned from a JLA experiences is: The world is not fair . . . however, some of the ladies I’ve met at JLA have been exemplary and display wholesome virtues that aim to make the world better for all.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Members are chosen at random through the Member Directory online

2 9 I L EAG U E L I N E S

JLA UPDATES

PARENTS:

Natasha and Andy Tichelbaut BABY NAME:

Silas Andrew Tichelbaut BORN: December 15, 2016

Would you like to see your announcement in the next issue of

LEAGUELINES

Use the online form to submit your info and photo: https://www.jlaustin.org/?nd=vms_load_form&form_id=5

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PARENTS:

Mary Grace and Ian Mooney BABY NAME:

Patrick McClendon “Mac” Mooney BORN: February 13, 2017

Leigh Edgar and Russell Arnold

Paige Cavazos and Shawn Canady

Samantha Fechtel and Paul Howell

November 5, 2016

November 12, 2016

December 12, 2016

Blair Hunter and Will Nelson Engaged February 18, 2017 in Port Aransas, Texas

Jessica Morrow-Glorieux and Andrew ‘Drew’ Halich To be married on June 24, 2017 in Cancun, Mexico

3 1 I L EAG U E L I N E S

Transfers In First Name Teel Clark Elizabeth Darby Holly Losey Tricia Noyola Alexandria O’Brien Amanda Stewart Elizabeth Will-Diener Gary Beth Baggett Erin Banks Cathy Glober Dallas Thomason Katherine Leigh Michelle Mansky Suzanne Wolfrom

Current Status Active Active Active Active Active Active Active

Sending League Asheville, NC Lubbock, TX Dallas, TX Harlingen, TX Tampa, FL Philadelphia, PA Ft. Myers, FL

Sustainer Sustainer Sustainer Sustainer Sustainer Sustainer Sustainer

Portland, OR San Francisco Wilmington, DE Dallas, TX Dallas, TX San Francisco, CA Beaumont, TX

Transfers Information Dates: January 2017-March 2017

3 2 I L E AG U E L INE S

Transfers Out First Name Adrienne Beal Holly Bunnell Callee Cloud Kate Draughon Amanda Flansbaum Katelyn Giglio Amy Goins Megan Granaghan Brandyn Hicks Gwendolyn Mrva Lindsay Summer Ratliff Roxanne Wilson Allison Ablauf Lauren Dott Sain Elizabeth Warner

Current Status Active Active Active Active Active Active Active Active Active Active Pope Active Active Active Provisional Provisional Sustainer

Sending League Denver, Co New York City, NY Lancaster, PA Houston, TX Nashville, TN Tampa, FL Houston, TX Fort Worth, TX Baltimore, MD Memphis, TN Miami, FL San Antonio, TX Orange County, CA Pittsburgh, PA Atlanta, GA Lufkin, TX

New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

CENTER FOR CHILD PROTECTION

by: ELIZABETH VREELAND The Center for Child Protection is a new community partner for The Junior League of Austin (JLA) for 2016-2017. Children are referred to the Center for services through law enforcement and Child Protective Services when a child has made an outcry of sexual abuse, when a child has experienced physical abuse or neglect, and/or when a child has witnessed a violent crime.

The Center for Child Protection is a non-profit organization that works to ensure that a child’s best interest is at the core of the investigative process. Over 10,000 services, including forensic, therapeutic, medical, and educational (in Spanish and English) are provided to Travis County every year at no cost.

The Junior League of Austin volunteers serve two roles in their placements with this benevolent agency. The first is acting as a Marketing and Communication specialist to advocate for the Center. This year’s specialist is working on social media campaigns for the Center as well as helping with some of the upcoming fundraising events. The Ride Drive Give event is held

at the Circuit of the Americas where patrons can drive exotic sports or professional racecars around the track for charity.

The NFL Golf Classic includes a Caring for Kids Banquet, which benefits the Center for Child Protection.

The second placement for a JLA volunteer is a Family Support specialist. This position works directly with the Center’s children and families by staffing a waiting room where the families can settle in before their child’s evaluations.

The Junior League of Austin is excited to work with this new community partner in the coming League year.

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2016-2017 THE WONDERWOMEN OF JLA by: RACHEL DEDMAN SHORES Inspired by acting President Sarah Valenzuela, The Junior League of Austin’s Wonder Women program honors League members who exhibit excellence inside the League, in the community, or both. A Wonder Woman is a model of the League’s mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Keri Bellacosa Walling and Catherine Mattingly are the current Board Members-at-Large who award the women nominated for the honor. Individual League members can nominate other League members for the honor; it is considered a peer-to-peer honor program. If a member wishes to nominate someone, she may do so by going to a link included on her JLA homepage. So far, approximately 35 women have been nominated for the honor. The League recognized those nominated for the honor at the November 2016 and March 2017 general meetings:

Fall Nominees: Rachel Irvin, Researchers Committee Lorena Legaretta, VP FDC Courtney Dickey, Admin VP Rachel Rogers, Facilities Chair, ACA Rachel Pry, Coats for Kids Community Fair Lead Allison Tisdale, ZACH Theater Sharon Morgan, ACA PR Coordinator Ashlee Arnold, ACA Merchant Co-Chair Poppy Poth, General Meeting Logistics Committee Darby Berra, Spring Events Meagan Longley, Provision Chair Elect Krista White Arnold, Finance Committee Julia Null, Capital Campaign Coordinator

Winter Nominees: Shannon Creekmur, Board of Directors, Recording Secretary Becky Johnson, Provisional Chair Carrie Semple, Finance Committee, Fund Development Treasurer Heather Bernard, General Meeting Activity Chair Stephanie McArthur, CFK Logistics Paige Smith Morgan, CFK Logistics Sara Willis Hogan, ACA Placement Co-Chair Courtney DeBower, FDC Support Team Chair Jennifer O’Connor, CFK Surplus Coats Coordinator Missy Osterman, Spanish Immersion Nicole Elliot, Capital Campaign Gift Processor Lydia Valdes, FDC Support Team, In-Kind Gift Coordinator Rachel Bailey, Training and Education Committee Member, Education Events Lead Andrea Jacobs, LeagueLines Editor Each League member recognized as a Wonder Woman receives a tumbler as a token of appreciation for her hard work within the League, the community, or both. The League intends for the program to be ongoing, with recognition being given periodically at general meetings. You can nominate a Wonder Woman by clicking the link at the JLA member homepage. Please nominate your own Wonder Woman today!

3 4 I L E AG U E L INE S

The Junior League of Austin is currently seeking nominations for members who have exhibited the qualities of a hero among us. Wonder Woman nominees aremembers who exhibit excellence inside the League and/or outside in our community. She is a model of our mission in promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and/or improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Let’s recognize the Wonder Women among us: www.jlaustin.org/wonderwoman

Purrrrfect Community Companions:

AUSTIN HUMANE SOCIETY & JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN VOLUNTEERS

The Austin Humane Society (AHS) is grateful to have the continued support of The Junior League of Austin, whose volunteers assist with all aspects of the adoption program. From off-site adoption events to advocating for specific animals with potential adopters, JLA volunteers help some of Austin’s most vulnerable animals find their forever homes!

In January, AHS participated in the 19th Annual Home & Garden Show, a three-day event that AHS uses to promote adoptions and kick-off our annual car raffle.

“We were lucky to have the support of several JLA volunteers, who took on caring for the adoptable animals throughout the event. Their support meant that AHS staff could better interact with attendees and sell raffle tickets. It was a huge help having them on-site!”

AHS said.

Photos: Top Right: JLA volunteer Amy Tucker with AHS adoptable, Mariah, and some future adopters!

Middle Left: JLA volunteer Olivia with AHS adoptable, Mariah, shortly before she was adopted.

Middle Right: JLA volunteer Olivia with AHS adoptable, Alfie.

Bottom Right: JLA volunteer Amy and AHS adoptable Mariah competing to see who has the bigger smile!

3 6 I L E AG U E L INE S

Mark Your Calendar

May 4, 6:00 pm

May 30, 7:00 pm

Austin Entertains

Board Meeting

Brazos Hall

JLA Headquarters

May 9, 7:00 pm

June 1

General Meeting

The New 2017-2018

JLA Headquarters

League Year Begins

3 7 I L EAG U E L I N E S