March 2015 LeagueLink

J U N I O R L E A G U E O F O K L A H O M A C I T Y, I N C .

Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

MARCH 2015

JLOC Holds Prom Night at Children’s Hospital PLUS: LEGACY AND LEGENDS - ANNUAL MEMBER LUNCHEON PREVIEW

President’s Letter Greetings friends,

Kristi Leonard

MISSION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Hasn’t this year flown by? I can’t believe we are already halfway through the first year of our focus on improving the health of Oklahoma City. What a great job our community volunteers have done to impact lives! Project Manager Katherine Chandler and fellow Members recently held a track meet at Boys and Girls Club for all the children who participated in the Kids on Track program. It was heartwarming to see the joy on the children’s faces as they crossed that finish line earning medals and hugs.

One of the milestones of a child’s life is Prom. Unfortunately, for many ill patients at OU’s Children’s Hospital, Prom is a dream that doesn’t come true.

Project Manager Nichole Glover and her Committee Members changed that by hosting a prom for all the kids at Children’s. From hair and makeup, to beautiful gowns and dapper suits, our volunteers provided all the glitz and glamour associated with Prom to every child who wanted to attend. Prom-goers walked the red carpet, took a professional portrait and danced the night away with friends and family. They made dreams come true for the kids and lasting memories for their parents. Bravo!

Junior League Members are the cream of the crop! We see a need, rally together and get the job done. Do you know a woman who should join us? If so, please sponsor her for the 2015-2016 Provisional Class. We have big plans for Oklahoma City that we can’t accomplish without an army of women ready to tackle the challenges our community faces. Incoming PAT Chair Amy McDougall can answer any questions you may have about sponsoring a Provisional, so contact her today.

Speaking of cream of the crop, I am honored to officially congratulate the 20152016 Board of Directors and President-Elect-Elect Sara Sweet. These leaders are ready to take the helm, and I am excited to see what President-Elect Nazette Zuhdi has in store for JLOC. Spring is the season of renewal. As we enter the second half of the year, I am reminded of the words of author Maria Robinson, “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” Let’s work together to finish the League year strong. Help each other. Support our League.

Leave a lasting legacy. Go Get ‘Em! Be Brave,

VISION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. will empower volunteers to impact our community and enrich lives.

FOCUS Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

W W W. J L O C . O R G

2 MARCH 2015

Kristi Leonard President 2014-2015

Contents

MARCH 2015 LINK VISION

To inform members and increase awareness of Junior League of Oklahoma City projects and events.

EDITOR Deanne McGehee ASSISTANT EDITOR & BUSINESS MANAGER Leah Jackson SUSTAINING ADVISOR Lyn Watson COMMITTEE MEMBERS Kristin Ferate, Kristen Gaddis, Courtney Jordan, Holly Moore, Tori Raines, Chandler Walters, Fareshteh Hamidi

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SCENE

[ e ve nts ]

January GMM Mistletoe Market Success Star and ABC Awards

2014-2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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PRESIDENT Kristi Leonard PRESIDENT-ELECT Nazette Zuhdi ADMINISTRATIVE VP Jenifer Randle BYLAWS CHAIR Blair Bradley COMMUNICATIONS VP Kristen Ferate COMMUNITY VP Mandy Heaps FINANCE VP Erin Fong FUNDRAISING VP Amanda Kirkpatrick-Lawler MEMBERSHIP VP Jamie Maddy NOMINATING CHAIR Pam Campbell

PROFILE

[ p e op l e ]

Legacy & Legends OU Fit and Live to Give Girls on the Block

SUSTAINING ADVISOR Cindy Riesen COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

Lillie-Beth Brinkman, Clytie Bunyan, Terry Cline, Nicole Dobbins, James Farris, Debbie Forshee, Douglas Gibson, Stanley Hupfeld, Randy Lewis, Jack McBride, Dan Martel, Mel Martin, Matthew Mollman, Monique Naifeh, Mikio “Kio” Nihira, Lindsay Parks, Paul Ryckbost, Charles “Chuck” Spicer, Jr., Sandra Payne, Joe Strunk- Strunk, Pete Winemiller

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COMMUNITY PROJECTS/PROJECT MANAGERS

FOCUS

[ pr oj e c ts ]

Healthy Parents’ Night Out A Soldier’s Story Kids in the Kitchen

A SOLDIER’S STORY Lauren Sesock AMACHI: BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Meghan Dunn EAT BETTER, MOVE MORE Stacy Lopez FAMILY FITNESS NIGHTS @ OKC EDUCARE Tony Parks-Payne HEALTH LITERACY Natlie Browne HEALTHY PRACTICES FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE

Krystal Murer & Lori McConnell “HEALTHY YOU” PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT Whitney Rainbolt KIDS IN THE KITCHEN /TOP CHEF Sabrina Froehlick &

Suzanne Singleterry KIDS ON TRACK Kathryn Chandler OCCC ADULT LITERACY Audra Doty-Bromagem PROM NIGHT AT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Nichole Glover

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ET CETERA

[ va ri ous ]

Bookshelf Understanding the Paleo Diet Healthy Spring Recipe

BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE Jenny Dunham THE READING RAINFOREST Candice Rennels VARIETY CARE HEALTH & NUTRITION LITERACY Jenna

Hudson VARIETY PACK Jenifer Stehr WHIZ KIDS April Waggoner

League Link is published 5 times a year by the Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc.

ON THE COVER:

Prom Night at the Children’s Hospital was held on January 24.

Photo Credit: Shirley Kay Photography

HEADQUARTERS

The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. 1001 NW Grand Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Phone (405) 843-5668 Fax (405) 843-0994 www.jloc.org FUNDRAISERS

Financial Development Mistletoe Market

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Scene [ events ]

January GMM

o

Transforming OKC

ur first General Membership Meeting for the New Year was held at the Will Rogers Theatre on Tuesday, January 13. Our guest speakers were Jackie Shaver and Alecia Meadows with the Oklahoma City County Health Department. They shared information about the OCCHD’s “Wellness Now” program, a community-led initiative of individuals and organizations who share a vision to improve the health and wellness of Oklahoma City and County.

In 2011, OCCHD received a five-year, $3.5 million Community Transformation Grant, used to implement programs that have been in the planning stages for nearly two years through the “Wellness Now” initiative. Efforts focus on increasing physical activity through parks and schools, improving nutrition, reducing obesity and heart disease, and reducing chronic diseases related to tobacco use.

During the meeting we also approved the slate for the 2015-2016 Board of Directors.

Guest speakers Jackie Shaver and Alecia Meadows with the Oklahoma City County Health Department highlighted the Wellness Now program during the January GMM.

Congratulations to the following ladies: President - Nazette Zuhdi-Cleaver President elect - Sara Sweet Administrative VP - Blair Bradley Bylaws Chair - Jamie Manoles Communications VP - Jen Randle Community VP - Sheena Karami Finance VP - Erica Lape Fundraising VP - Jamie Maddy Membership VP - Tracey Frederick Nominating Chair - Adrienne Nobles

The OCCHD’s new N.E. Regional Health & Wellness Campus.

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MEMBERSHIP RESIGNATIONS May Reilley (A) Amanda Gamble (P) Audra Fuller (A) LEAVE OF ABSENCE Deidra Olson Emily Stringer Abby Byford Stephanie Gannaway Jennifer Thurman Jenna Foster MATERNITY LEAVE Margaux Lipoldt Kristin Ikard

NON RESIDENT ACTIVE Kelly Edson Rogowski (CO) Leslie Kearns (RI) Michelle Havron (FL) Danielle Toussaint (NJ) TRANSFER OUT Elizabeth Crawford (P) to San Antonio Natalie Martella (A) to Dallas CONGRATULATIONS Kristin Ikard - baby boy Jamie Maddy - Positive Tomorrows Mentor of the Year

MISTLETOE MARKET

SUCCESS

Mistletoe Market 2014 was a huge success. The MM Board turned over

From left: Katie Moore, Ann Trudgeon, Cristi Reiger, Bonnie Schwarz, Ann Cameron, Sara Crooks, Kristen Brown.

THANK YOU BONNIE!

$151,04

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to the League a much larger than expected amount, which will in

Past Presidents, Sustainers and Members joined at Headquarters on Wednesday, December 16 to honor Bonnie Schwarz for her wonderful years of service to the

Junior League of Oklahoma City.

She served as the League’s Finance Manager since 2011. Before that, she was an Active Member who served on two Boards.

turn go to support our work in the community. Many thanks to our Members, Sustainers, Provisionals, vendors and the community for helping make our Market a success!

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Holiday Open House

J

LOC celebrated the season with its Annual Holiday Open House on Wednesday, December 10.

Sustainer Amy Gray graciously opened her home to host this special event. The holiday tradition welcomed Provisionals, Actives and Sustainers.

L I TTL E L EAG UERS

“Sometimes the littlest things take up the most room in your heart. ”—WINNIE THE POOH

STAR & ABC

AWARDS ABC AWA R D OCTOBER

Sheena Karami NOVEMBER

Mistletoe Market Board

STAR AWA R D OCTOBER

Stacie Evans NOVEMBER

Shirley Consedine DECEMBER

Luke Koehler Evans & Elizabeth Caroline Evans Born on December 2, 2014 Parents are Mark and Stacie Evans

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Theresa Nicoletto & Elizabeth Semtner

Christmas Pinterest Party JLOC Members and their little ones got into the holiday spirit The OKC Philharmonic presents its yuletide family Christmas Show at the Civic Center Music Hall.

during the Christmas Pinterest Party held at Headquarters on

JLOC AT THE

CHRISTMAS SHOW Ladies of JLOC attended the OKC

Monday, December 15.

Participants made glitter ornaments.

Philharmonic’s Christmas Show on Saturday, December 6. The Broadway-style, Yuletide variety show featured charming novelty numbers

ď‚… Blair Bradley and Katherine Hager.

to inspiring Christmas hymns.

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Profile [ people ]

possible; Nothing is im says the word itself “I’m Possible!”

—Audrey Hep

24th Annual Awards Celebration: Legacy & Legends

t

JLOC to Honor Three Distinguished Members

he 24th Annual Awards Celebration, “Legacy & Legends,” will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club. A reception at 11:30 a.m. will precede the luncheon at noon for Members and community supporters.

The rebranding of the formerly named “Annual Member Luncheon” to “Legacy & Legends” has been the exciting culmination of a summer task force chaired by past President, Betsy Mantor, and the decision made by the BOD, Membership Council and the Luncheon Committee.

“And the Award Goes To…” theme will harken guests back to the golden age of Hollywood legends walking the red carpet as three legendary women receive the Junior League’s highest honors.

Axton. A 2013 recipient of the OCU Women of Excellence Award and recent Oklahoma Hospitality Club “Ladies in the News,” Janie’s affiliations with countless nonprofits and organizations have left a lasting legacy in Oklahoma City.

“To be included in the ranks of the past Mary Baker Rumsey Award recipients is more than humbling,” Janie said. “These are women, many of whom I have worked with, whose skills and service I have long admired.”

Debby Hampton, third from the right, is the Sustainer of the Year recipient.

Debby Hampton, President and CEO of United Way of Central Oklahoma will receive The Sustainer of the Year Award. Debby’s tenure as CEO of the Red Cross during the Oklahoma City bombing and collaboration of efforts with the JLOC gave her the first-hand experience of working with the passionate and tireless women of the League. Debby was instrumental in initiating the Junior League’s relationship with the Red Cross that has continued for decades.

“It is such an honor to be receiving this award,” said Debby. “The Junior League has made such an impact in my life both personally and professionally.”

Janie Axton, right, is the Mary Baker Rumsey Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

Receiving The Mary Baker Rumsey Lifetime Achievement Award is Janie

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burn

Mary Davis Nichols, third from left, is the President’s Spirit of Commitment Award recipient.

The President’s Spirit of Commitment Award recipient will be given to the larger than life legend, Mary Davis Nichols. She is the epitome of the “spirit” of the JLOC and has filled the majority of her 98 years with volunteer service as one of the League’s most venerable Members, and she is still going strong! She’s especially interested in providing cultural and educational opportunities for children, while relying on her faith.

“Prayer is a very essential part of my life, and it has sustained me,” said Mary. “I ask Him to help me or someone else to solve some problems and I always remember to thank Him, even though I may not like His solutions.”

We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of these three remarkable women!

OU Fit and Live to Give

JLOC’s Kelli Hayward Creates Workplace Wellness Programs

“Live to Give” has become so successful that OU Medical System has adopted the program for its employees.

BY FARESHTEH HAMIDI

I

n the fall of 2007, the executive board of OU Physicians had a vision of creating a healthier and more cohesive work environment for its 800 employees. It was not long after that our own Kelli Hayward was brought in to design and implement a wellness program and brand—“OU Fit.” Kelli single-handedly researched all components of how such a program should be introduced to such a large workforce and implemented the incentive-based program in January of 2008.

Nearly a year after the “OU Fit” kick-off, Kelli took on more responsibility with the creation of “Live to Give,” a community outreach program that donated over 3,000 hours of service just in the last year. Kelli’s motive behind the concept was to create a collective mindset within OU that health is about more than weight loss and exercise programs – it is about giving to our community and those in need. “Live to Give” has become so successful that OU Medical System has adopted the program for its employees.

Kelli is thrilled to manage the program for OU Physicians, and says it has been incredible to witness the change the organization has made together purely through service. “OU Fit” began in 2015 with an 8-week-long team challenge to motivate employees to maintain healthy habits. Points for the challenge are earned by measuring hours of sleep, water intake and steps taken throughout each day with a pedometer. Many teams are seen power walking in the campus skywalks during their lunch breaks and have become quite competitive.

OU is a unique community of healthcare workers who have learned to practice what they preach. “OU Fit” and “Live to Give” play a major role in the attitude of this community thanks to Kelli’s vision. In order for such a vision to gain momentum, one must obtain the knowledge, connections and skills to see it through.

Kelli credits skills developed through the Junior League in helping her career. As a Project Manager for OU, she is able to apply her knowledge of running meetings and being in charge of Committees to the workplace. Kelli

wants League Members to know that no matter what your job is, you can always learn something from the League that can transpire into your career and help transport you to a bigger, better idea or place.

Kelli Hayward

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Profile

GIRLS ON THE BLOCK Megan Gray PROVISIONAL

What is your proudest fitness moment?

My proudest fitness moment has to be when I participated in the Oklahoma Memorial Marathon and ran 13.1 miles.

What are your favorite tunes for running/working out?

I love to listen to Beyonce when I work out because her songs really pump me up and make

10 MARCH 2015

me feel like I can conquer the world!

What is your favorite go-to snack to refuel after a tough workout?

My favorite go-to snacks after a tough workout are my “Think Thin” bars. They have one that’s brownie flavored and it’s amazing!

Please share a sports-related memory with us.

My favorite sports memory was sitting in the student section of Boone Pickens Stadium in 2011 and getting to watch OSU beat OU. The energy in the stadium was unforgettable and seeing everyone rush the field was such a fun experience.

Kristen Gaddis ACTIVE

What is your proudest fitness moment?

My proudest fitness moment was finishing the OKC Memorial half marathon last year at three hours. It was so motivating; I’m currently training to run the full marathon this year.

What are your favorite tunes for running/working out?

Nothing motivates like girl power! These ladies always help me cross the finish line.“Roar”

BEAUTY

by Katy Perry, “Girl on Fire”

by Alicia Keys, “Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé,“Fly” by Nicki Minaj.

What is your favorite go-to snack to refuel after a tough workout?

Dark chocolate almond milk is the perfect way to refuel after a tough workout, a kick of sweet protein and calcium to rev the metabolism.

Please share a sports-related memory with us.

One of my most memorable sports moments was heading out with my dear friend Christi Coyle for my first Oklahoma City Thunder game. Nothing spoils an Oklahoma newbie like floor seats and a photo op with the Thunder Cheerleaders. I felt truly blessed to enjoy the game with Christi and great new friends. Lots of laughs were shared that evening.

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GIRLS ON THE BLOCK

(CONTINUED)

Morgan Liebel PROVISIONAL

What is your proudest fitness moment?

Running my first 5k race and the 30-day yoga challenge at Soul Yoga.

What are your favorite tunes for running/working out?

Iggy Azalea! Love her!

What is your favorite go-to snack to refuel after a tough workout?

Please share a sports-related memory with us.

Being an adult and still getting out there with friends and playing coed softball and kickball. It’s so fun and I’m getting to be active.

Kize, vanilla almond energy bar.

Kaydee Cunningham ACTIVE

What is your proudest fitness moment?

Getting up at 5:30 a.m. for 12 weeks to do Boot Camp with fellow JL’ers Becky Taylor and Jordan Dean. I gained strength and have never felt better!

What is your favorite go-to snack to refuel after a tough workout?

KIND bars. I’m obsessed with them. I eat one every day!

Any kind with Blueberry is my favorite flavor.

What are your favorite tunes for running/working out?

Please share a sports-related memory with us.

Taylor Swift’s new CD (and I never liked her before).

During my high school senior year, it was our last Edmond

North vs Edmond Santa Fe game and I was cheering (It is a sport…), and we did a stunt and the flyer elbowed me—and my tooth cut all the way through my lip resulting in blood everywhere ­—and we ALL fell completely to the ground. #Proudestmoment.

Emma Flinton ACTIVE

What is your proudest fitness moment?

It hasn’t actually happened yet. I am training for the OKC Memorial half marathon. While the farthest I’ve run so far is only six miles, I know the feeling when I have completed the 13.1 mile will be, by far, my proudest fitness accomplishment.

What are your favorite tunes for running/working out?

I use the app Songza for my

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iPhone and I highly recommend it! It is like Pandora but without all of the ads. From yoga or Barre to high-intensity cardio, the app offers tunes that match any workout. Did I mention, it’s completely free?

What is your favorite go-to snack to refuel after a tough workout?

I’m a Greek yogurt, granola and fruit fan. I eat it almost every day.

Please share a sports-related memory with us.

I don’t know if this counts but a fun and social way for me to stay active is walking with my girlfriends, one of them fellow Leaguer, Griffin Santino, and our dogs. Once a week we get together in one of our neighborhoods and walk for about an hour. We walk three to four miles and I never notice because we are talking about everything from pop culture to recipes to stories from our college days. I don’t know if this qualifies as a sports-related memory but they are definitely memories I will always cherish.

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Focus [ projects ]

Healthy Parents’ Night Out

l

By Tori Raines

ed by Project Manager Whitney Rainbolt, the Healthy You Parents’ Night Out at the Children’s Hospital of OKC is a special placement. While the focus is on offering an opportunity for parents of children staying at the hospital to have a little leisure and fun time, volunteers also interact and engage with both patients and young family members.

The Zone at the Children’s Hospital is a giant, bright, toy-filled space built in part through JLOC funds and is the

location for the placement. Parents are allowed a semi-separate area for trivia or movies while children are being cared for and played with in a different area. Light meals and refreshments are furnished by JLOC volunteers, on a rotating basis. The idea is to allow parents to have some interaction with adults who are not medical professionals and to offer them some “normalcy” in the midst of crazy times.

Seemingly insignificant activities like trivia games or decorating cookies are a great way to help take their

The Zone was built in part through JLOC funds.

minds off of scary and tough situations.

As many parents don’t feel comfortable being very far away from their sick or injured little ones, the Zone and Healthy You Parents’ Night Out is the perfect location where parents can “get away” while being just a few steps away. Thirteen Actives are involved with this placement, and typically around 8-10 women are on-site for each event. Volunteers work by signing in families, providing child care for young ones or engaging with adults.

Fabulous door prizes are given away to the children, so everyone leaves with a smile on their face! Healthy parents can better care for their children, so this truly is a win-win situation.

The Zone at the Children’s Hospital is a giant, bright, toy-filled space and is the location for the placement.

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A Soldier’s Story

BY HOLLY MOORE

J

LOC Members have had the opportunity to serve veterans through one of this year’s projects, A Soldier’s Story.

“This project gives volunteers the opportunity to serve the brave men and women who have selflessly served us,” Project Manager Laura Sesock says. “We have about 10 volunteers who spend their time encouraging the veterans to participate in activities meant to bring joy during what to most, is a difficult and lengthy stay in the hospital.”

The group spends time with the veterans on a weekly basis, engaging them in conversation and playing games like dominos and bingo. They also host many different special events for the veterans throughout the year, including parties for things like Halloween, Thanksgiving,

The group host many different special events for the veterans throughout the year, including parties for events such as Halloween.

Christmas and the Super Bowl.

“We really encourage the veterans to leave their hospital rooms and join us for social time,” Sesock says. “We hosted two holiday meals for the veterans, their families and staff. Both were a huge success and many veterans who normally pick at their food had seconds and then indulged in sugar-free desserts.”

Since some of the veterans are from out-of-town, Sesock says this means that they will have few family members or visitors and may be returning to an

empty home upon release from the hospital.

“Often times our company is the best dose of medicine,” she says. “Every time we leave a shift almost every veteran thanks us for what we do and how much it makes a difference. They look forward to seeing us every week and they make sure we know it!”

A Soldier’s Story will be offered as a project again next year for any League Members looking for a way to give back to those who have served our country.

Kids in the Kitchen

S

ince the 2014-2015 Provisional class was so large, just one “Kids in the Kitchen” project wasn’t enough. So to accommodate all 139 ladies, three separate Kids in the Kitchen projects were scheduled this year. One was hosted in October at Positive Tomorrows, one in February at the Boys & Girls Club and the third will be held in March at Sunbeam Family Services.

All projects include a healthy snack station, education of healthy snacks, goodie bags with recipe cards and fun items for the kids to take home.

The project held at the Boys and Girls Club is the largest of the three, so volunteers decided to incorporate an exercise component to it. The kids got geared up with fun movements by the director of Kize bars before heading in to learn how to create healthy snacks on their own at home. In all,

after all three projects are complete, the 2014-2015 Provisional class will have helped teach over 390 kids how to choose and eat healthier snacks!

 Provisionals worked on three separate Kids in the Kitchen projects.  Kids learned how to make fun and healthy snacks.



All projects include a healthy snack station.

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Prom Night at The Children’s Hospital

BY HOLLY MOORE

Volunteers helped with makeup.

Everyone danced the night away.

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F

or the second year in a row, Junior League Members have had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of local children through the Prom Night at The Children’s Hospital placement. This year, 20 volunteers were in charge of everything from planning and event set-up to participating in the prom night itself.

“The prom included children of all ages that were both current patients and patients that have been released from the hospital with cancer, blood disorders and kidney disease,” Project Manager Nichole Glover says. “This event served as an opportunity to give these kids a night of normality.”

The children got to choose their dresses and accessories and even had their hair, make-up and nails done. During “preprom” they participated in games and activities, including bingo with prizes and a craft station where they could make headbands and crowns. The theme for this year’s prom was an Old Hollywood theme, complete with a red carpet for the kids to walk and strike a pose.

Glover says the Committee started planning the event by coordinating a

From left to right: (Back Row) Jade Judd, Lynzi Rice, Corinne Simone, Sara Elder and Lindsey Fixley.

(Front Row) Mote Nickel, Jennifer Levine, Morgan Hopson, Nichole Glover and Katie Ellis.

clothing and accessory drive. The group secured items for the children to choose between, both new and gently used.

They also worked throughout the year to secure donations for the kids’ swag bags. This year the bags included things like a Thunder hat, picture frame with the prom night theme and coupons to various restaurants and gaming centers around town. The group also received donations from local businesses and Junior League Members.

“Any project like this takes a lot of hard work upfront, but it’s the actual event that makes it worth it,” said Committee Member Katie Ellis. “To see tears of joy from the children and their parents is humbling. They were all so

The prom had an Old Hollywood theme, complete with a red carpet for the kids to walk and strike a pose.

incredibly grateful and appreciative of us creating a special night just to celebrate them.”

“It was wonderful as a mother to watch the parents eyes fill with tears as they watched their child walk out of the dressing room in their prom attire,” said Glover.

For any Members interested in helping with prom night, this placement will be offered again next year.

“Everything about this placement was a great experience,” said Committee Member Sarah Elder. “The overwhelming support that we received from the community was awe inspiring, and the actual event was one of the most special things I’ve ever witnessed.”

Services include but are not limited to:

There was even a fun photo booth.

www.LauraLynnsHomeCare.com The girls also got their nails done.

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Family Fitness Nights at OKC Educare

BY TONI PARKS-PAYNE

T

he inaugural year for the Family Fitness Nights at OKC Educare has been an active adventure in fun AND exercise! OKC Educare is a program of Sunbeam Family Services to help people make the connection.

Dedicated JLOC volunteers meet monthly at Educare to lead the children of Educare and their families through a variety of fitness and healthrelated programs and activities.

Volunteers and participants took advantage of the great weather during the first session and created outdoor fitness stations. Children also received stickers for each station they completed successfully. The exercise portion of the evening is typically followed by participants learning how to make

healthy take-home snacks - everything from colorful Jello and fruit parfaits to trail mix. Other session highlights have included fun playground-style games sponsored and led by the Nike Community Ambassadors, a parentchild yoga class and a visit by Smiley O’Reilly from the Dental Depot, who taught the children the importance of good oral hygiene. Smiley was a hit - the children were delighted when he passed out free toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss for all in attendance.

Family Fitness Nights at Educare is the perfect placement for any JLOC volunteer who wants to work hands-on with underprivileged children and is not afraid to get active and have LOTS of fun while making a difference.

Volunteers Sally Kernke and Shaina Luntz.

Volunteers meet monthly at Educare to lead families through a variety of fitness and health-related activities.

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KIDS ON TRACK

By Bria Hanlon

other kids and Junior Leaguers. When they are tagged, they have to freeze until a Dolphin comes to save them. This activity has become a staple for our placement. Other activities include timed running sessions and red light, green light.

“Kids on Track” is a placement that gets

At the close of our first semester of Kids on

everyone on their feet and moving. We meet

Track, we held a track meet. At the meet, kids

every Monday night at the Boys and Girls Club

9 and over competed against each other, as

in Oklahoma City for an hour. Each week,

did kids 9 and under. Both groups participated

during our hour session, a Junior League

in a relay race, sprint competition and a long

Member leads the group of kids and volunteers

distance run. Many of the kids invited their

in a series of stretches.

parents to attend the track meet and it was a

Post stretch, the JLOC Member explains the activity planned to the kids and then we spend the majority of our session interacting with the

wonderful way to celebrate the end of a very successful first semester of Kids on Track.

After the meet, the Boys and Girls Club let

kids and encouraging them during the activity.

us know that many kids were interested in

We end every session with a healthy snack and

joining our program for the spring semester,

a cool down period after working up a sweat

and we are hoping for even more success to

during our activity.

come. This spring, the kids will train for their

One activity the kids really enjoy is a game

final event, which is the two mile fun run with

called Sharks and Minnows. The kids and

the Red Bud Classic. The kids are already

Junior Leaguers, who are designated to be

working hard to reach that goal and we can’t

Sharks, have to chase the Minnows, who are

wait to see the hard work pay off in April!

 (Top) Member volunteers meet each Monday at the Boys and Girls Club in OKC. (Bottom) “Kids on Track” participants show off their medals.

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Focus

JLOC Members Moira McCarthy and Lauren Phelps (center) join other OKC ladies for Moxie.

Inside the Workout – Moxieride

By Moira McCarthy

D

o you want the benefits of doing high intensity cardio and strength training, but don’t have hours to spend in the gym? Then Moxieride is the place for you!

“Moxie is a 45 minute sweat session that’s designed to release stress, burn fat, tone muscles, improve aerobic endurance and change your body fast,” said Moxieride instructor and enthusiast, Kelsey Strecker-Rodman.

At Moxieride, located at 2761 W. Country Club Dr. in OKC, riders are guided through high-resistance climbs, low-resistant sprints and arm workouts using free weights. The instructors are there to push riders to their fullest potential. In addition, instructors encourage riders to use the ride as their personal time to forget all their stress.

“Classes at Moxieride are so addicting,” said Leah Sullivan, Junior League Member and Moxie devotee.

“The instructors really push you to do your personal best. It’s not about what the person next to you is doing, but it’s about how you feel and how you perform.”

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Moxieride is so much more than a high intensity workout. It is a community with fun healthfocused activities. For example, Moxie offers “Thirsty Thursdays” after the 6 p.m. rides on Thursday.

Several members participated in a “No Sugar November” challenge and some are even partaking in a weight loss challenge.

Classes featured on the Moxieride schedule include: Moxiesteel, a class incorporating free weights; Moxiebands, which uses resistance bands; and Moxiecombo, a class featuring hand weights and bands. The new rider special is three classes for $30. Shoe rental is always $3.00.

Moxieride will push you to work hard and to achieve your health goals. Get riding!  Moxieride also sells apparel at its new location at 2761 W. Country Club Dr. in OKC.

9119 north western avenue oklahoma city, oklahoma 73114

thefleuriste.com 405.843.8700

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Et Cetera [ various ]

Understanding the Paleo Diet

t

By Leah Jackson

he Paleolithic diet, also well known as the Paleo diet or caveman diet is all the dieting rage right now. It is a diet that uses modern foods to mimic what humans ate during the Paleolithic era. It is based on claims that the modern day diet inhibits us from properly metabolizing foods such as grains, legumes, dairy and processed foods, which leads to modern day problems such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

The Paleo diet is a high fat, non-calorie restricted diet. It is recommended that on a daily basis you include 50 percent of your daily caloric intake as fat, 30 percent carbohydrates and 20 percent protein.

The philosophy of the diet is that fat does not make you fat, sugar does.

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Suggested fats are avocados, coconut oil, grass-fed butter or ghee and grassfed organic red meats.

Paleo is easy to follow once you understand what Paleo is and what Paleo isn’t. Foods you should eat when following a Paleo diet include seafood, eggs, animal meat, healthy fat (avocado, coconut, olive oil, full fat dairy), vegetables, fruit, some nuts and seeds, sweet potatoes, natural enhancers (vinegar, coconut product, maple syrup, honey, oils, spices) and grass-fed butter. Foods that are not considered Paleo include grains, sugar (agave, white sugar, high fructose corn syrup), processed/packaged foods and drinks, bad fats (canola oil, low fat dairy, margarine), artificial anything.

There have been several large studies on whether or not the diet

works. In 2009 the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition published that, after just 10 days on the Paleo diet, individuals in clinical studies all showed improvement in their overall weight averaging nine pounds lost in 10 days. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, Insulin levels stabilized and diastolic blood pressure went down. Weight loss was also significant in these studies.

Paleo meals are simple and delicious.

All meals have a high fat content so dieters will feel fuller longer. There are a lot of resources and websites to help with meal ideas, recipes and general support. A Paleo dinner might be grilled grass fed steak, asparagus grilled or sautĂŠed in ghee or butter and a side salad with an oil and vinegar dressing. Easy and Delicious!

INGREDIENTS 8 large eggs 1 ½ teaspoons dried dill ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, diced 1 5-ounce bag baby spinach, chopped ½ cup diced ham ½ cup shredded Havarti or Muenster cheese PREPARATION 1. Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat to 450°F. 2. Whisk eggs, dill, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Heat oil in a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add leeks; cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add spinach and ham; cook, stirring, until the spinach is wilted, about 1 minute.

3. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook, lifting the edges of the frittata so uncooked egg can flow underneath, until the bottom is light golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle cheese on top, transfer the pan to the oven and bake until the eggs are set, 6 to 8 minutes. Let rest for about 3 minutes before serving. Serve hot or cold.

Katie Blaik James Real Estate Broker Associate

MAKES 6 SERVINGS

KEESEE & COMPANY, INC.

PER SERVING: 217 Calories; 15 g Fat; 5 g Sat; 6 g Mono; 296 mg Cholesterol; 6 g Carbohydrates; 14 g Protein; 1 g Fiber; 418

6421 Avondale Dr., Suite 209B, OKC, OK 73116 405.842.8841 office 405.842.1775 fax OKCKatie@gmail.com

mg Sodium; 320 mg Potassium

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Et Cetera

Provisional Christmas Party

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he Provisional class met on December 3 at the Champagne Penthouse located in the Block 42 development of Oklahoma City.

They toured the beautiful property, ate, socialized and brought items to donate to the Children’s Hospital prom.

THUNDER GIRL LEADS JLOC IN HIP HOP CLASS LADIES OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE KICKED OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A HIP HOP CLASS LED BY FORMER THUNDER GIRL MARISA VIESTENZ ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 AT VELOCITY DANCE CENTER.

24 MARCH 2015

Find the Hidden Apple!

CONGRATS! ---------- TO ----------

Betsy Thorpe FOR FINDING THE HIDDEN APPLE IN THE DECEMBER 2014 ISSUE AND WINNING!

The apple was hiding here on page 15 in the December 2014 issue!

EMAIL DEANNE MCGEHEE (DEANNEMCGEHEE@GMAIL.COM) IF YOU SPOT THE RED APPLE. THOSE WHO FIND IT WILL BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A PRIZE!

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Et Cetera

Bookshelf Q U E S T I O N S:

1. What book are you currently reading?

2. What is your favorite book of all time and why?

3. What is your favorite children’s book?

4. What is your “go-to” cookbook?

Catherine Shotick

Shannon Bass

Sheena Karami

Jenn Tupps

Provisional

Active

Active, Board Member

Active, Board Member

1. I am currently reading “The Physician” by Noah Gordon.

2. My favorite book of all time is “Joy in the Morning” by Betty Smith.

It takes place in the 1920s and tells the story of a newly-wed couple’s struggle with hardship and poverty, yet they find so much to be happy about. It is a heartwarming reminder to find joy in the little things.

3. My favorite children’s book is “Mandy” by Julie Andrews.

4. One of my favorite cookbooks is “Classic Indian Cooking” by Julie Sahni.

1. “Gone Girl.” It’s full of twists and turns and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I’m waiting to see the movie until I finish so don’t tell me any spoilers!

2. “The Giver.” I read it in middle school and it still resonates with me. It is a great book to reflect on society’s values and the choices I make every day.

3. Anything Dr. Seuss! I loved the bright colorful illustrations full of whimsical characters to draw out my imagination.

4. “Barefoot Contessa Foolproof.” Her recipes are so approachable and have entertaining in mind. Plus, the recipes really are foolproof!

1. While I enjoy reading, lately, I’m not much of a leisurely reader. Any free time I have is filled reading local/national/international news articles, trade journals and other works relevant to my personal and professional endeavors.

2. “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass” by Lewis Carroll. Everything about it—the heroine, storyline, quirky characters, riddles and rhymes— always intrigued me and in my youth inspired me to think outside of the box.

3. Clearly my answer for question #2 applies here as well. I’m lucky to own a vintage copy of “Alice in Wonderland,” but if someone knows where I can find an original version of both stories in one bound copy, please let me know!

4. My mom and dad started documenting recipes in a journal when they met in college during the late 1970’s. Over the years, that journal has evolved into our family cookbook and contains my favorite dishes.

1. I have a gigantic stack of books to get through. Here are the ones I am most enjoying or looking forward to: “The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman, “I Thought it Was Just Me (but it isn’t)” by Dr. Brene Brown, “All the Light We Cannot See,” by Anthony Doerr and “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand.

2. “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” by Betty Smith. The story is hopeful, and sweet, and I always feel at home.

Also, “The Wrinkle in Time quintet (WIT, Swiftly Tilting Planet, Wind in the Door, Many Waters, and An Acceptable Time)” by Madeleine L’Engle. This was the first set of books that really introduced me to fantasy, and as I grow older and reread these books, I learn something new each time.

3. I adore “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein. It is a fantastic story of sacrifice and also of not taking too much, but it’s hard to read a tearjerker to my toddler every night!

4. “Forks Over Knives” is a really good cookbook. It features plant-based menu options. “Oh She Glows!” is also really good for a plant-based diet. I follow her on Instagram too— she’s kind of awesome.

26 MARCH 2015

NEARLY-wEdS SPONSORED BY

ShARE YouR Big dAY!

Keisha Schultz & Matthew Landry To Be Wed: April 25, 2015 in

Oklahoma City, OK

To announce your engagement or wedding in the League Link, go to the Members Only portion of the jloc.org website and submit your requested information. The NearlyWed/Newly Wed form is located under the Forms/References tab.

If you would like to submit a photo, please send it to Leah Jackson at leah@bobjacksonlaw.com

 To announce your wedding in Brides of Oklahoma Magazine, contact us at 405-607-2902 or visit www.thebridesofoklahoma.com

JuNioR LEAguERS REcEivE $100 off YouR ANNouNcEmENt iN BRidES of okLAhomA mAgAziNE

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MISSION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

VISION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. will empower volunteers to impact our community and enrich lives.

FOCUS Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

Thank you for advertising with us!

Adorn Brides of Oklahoma Calverts The Fleuriste

Keesee & Company, Inc. Laura Lynn’s Homecare Linda C. Howell & Assoc.

Shannon Love Photography

Increase your business and advertise with us!

Get on board for the 2014-2015 League Link year and start advertising. The circulation is over 1,500 and sent to not only JLOC members but also to numerous businesses and community organizations.

Special rates are available for all League Members; Actives, Sustainers and Provisionals.

W W W. J L O C . O R G

Shirley Kay Photography Warhall Designs Westminster School

Contact Leah Jackson, League Link Business Manager, for more information at leah@bobjacksonlaw.com.

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THE NEXT DEADLINE IS APRIL