FALL/WINTER 2013 junior league of monroe • women building better communities TLC The Year Back to School Bash for Love ❤ League House Shop, Gets a Facelift! Save & A Look Serve! Inside… December 2-7 The Life of a Get your Charity League Shopping Pass Family NOW!
Denise Simpson 2013-2014 JLM President
i n e v e r y i s s u e CHARLONS — fall 2013 3 We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, rightly and so, and sisters, brothers you, thank God for to ought always We Who doesn’t LOVE the fall and winter seasons? There’s so much to look forward to! look forward to! so much to There’s seasons? the fall and winter LOVE Who doesn’t cornerthe decorating-our& shopping means (that around just 2 are holidays The starting are the leaves to the air is crisp, season is in full swing, things), football fave and soon scarves dig out those cute turn, get to you and fuzzy wear, to sweaters will be cozy there the fireplace. nights by the As in Love…” “Fall year, the League theme for is Denise’s LOVE Another thing we love. to sometimes forget we at us and deadlines ensue, eats away grind day to day everyonethat hope we once again fall can and guidance, her inspiration Through of someone special and the Junior League family, their job, with themselves, in love magazine has chairinga complete Although and editing this committee Monroe. best us made has League The every loved it. of minute have we challenging, been icing on the cake.been the of friends has together and chairing this committee could bottle it, it could be a spirit (if you and energetic creativeness Heather’s With skills, antics and organizational we funny of mass destruction)weapon and Melissa’s When I wake in the morning and see fall around me, I think of everything I think When I wake me, morning in the see fall around and this is a wonderfulThanksgiving reflect to time me and others. to season means that is a verse I also came across us. he has given what and thank God for perfect our league at this time. for “ every the love and one of you more, and more growing faith is because your 1:3 Thessalonians 2 each other is increasing.” has for time and dedication on making your our for one of you thank each I want to have not would we you Without and each other better. community, League, YOU! THANK so League, a productive the acorns happens to What I was thinking is like an oak tree. League that our animals, nutrition for and provide eaten in the fall? Some are
Heather Guillot & Melissa Kiper the Editors from Denise Simpson Letter President the from a Message What and decay. or under leaves others start on the ground some just lay and newtrees, acorn an that nourishesyou others and helps Are you? kindare member of Junior League flourish, and an acornwill start that you grow, living? Are continue them new a tree, on the an acorn there is just that you are Or world? the to asset an become the do for a look at what you Take nothing behind but dust? leaving ground, and makeyour life make Strive to difference a community. and our League worthwhile! this opportunity giving for you serveThank to President, as your feel like we are the perfect pair. We hope that you agree and “fall in love” with this issue as much as we have! with this issue as much as we “fall in love” and agree hope that you We the perfect like are we feel pair. the hard-working Charlons committee, and organized like this issue: our energetic thank all who contributed to would to We submitting articles that keeps chairs for our amazing Board everyonecommittee on our common goal, and pictures, focused a safe Everyone happened without you! have have issue couldn’t This pictures and articles. and all others who sent in quotes, cherish Remember to all those memories! friends with your and family. holiday and happy about JLM partnering for a better community Our Vision Through the power of Red Cross • Salvation Army • YWCA • YMCA • Camp Fire Girls • March of Dimes • Crippled our association, Junior Leagues strengthen Children’s Clinic • Masur Museum • Louisiana Training Institute • Open Door Home • Easter i s s u e
communities by embracing diverse Seals • Med-Camps • Suzuki Forum • Ronald McDonald House • Go Care • United Way • Our perspectives, building partnerships, and House • Girl Scouts • Christian Community Ministries • New Horizon’s Boy Scout Camp • inspiring solutions. Tri-District Boys’ Club • Twin City Ballet • Strauss Theatre • Monroe Symphony • Northeast e v e r y Our Mission The Junior League Louisiana Children’s Museum • Susan G. Komen Foundation • Women’s Wellness Coalition i n of Monroe is an organization of women • West Monroe Community Center • Monroe Housing Authority • Children’s Coalition for committed to promoting volunteerism, Northeast Louisiana • City of Monroe Beautification Board • Extra Mile • Friends of ULM developing the potential of women, and Library • Friends of Monroe Civic Center • Little Theatre’s Young Troupe • Louisiana Folk improving communities through the Life Festival • Monroe Chamber of Commerce • Ouachita Valley Historic Preservation effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively Society • Partners in Education • West Monroe/West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce • educational and charitable. Habitat for Humanity • The Center for Women & Children Our Purpose We reach out to women of all races, religions, and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to volunteerism. Junior League of Monroe Our History Since 1930, members Community Projects of the Junior League of Monroe have devoted countless volunteer hours • Education Task Force to meet the needs of the people and organizations of our community. • Families Can’t Wait Community leaders have always looked • Tools and Literacy for Children (TLC) to the JLM for leadership in starting new community programs. As a result, the JLM • Done-in-a-Day has often been the catalyst that turned an idea into a success that benefitted many in our area. Here are a few examples of programs that we have started in recent years: Court Appointed Special Advocates JLM Board of Directors 2013-2014 (CASA), Teen Screen, Shots for Tots, Teen Court, Operation Abstinence, and Project President ...... Denise Simpson Child. President-Elect ...... Jennifer Ables Financial Vice President ...... Gretchen Tiser Assistant Financial Vice President ...... Meghan Plummer Communications Vice President ...... Christy Valentine Community Vice President ...... Toni Baggiano Membership Vice President ...... Jenny Pankey Planning & Research Vice President ...... Jodee Bruyninckx Association Prayer Fund Development Vice President ...... Ashley West We pray that we will never be so blind Secretary ...... Jan Mattingly that our small world is all we ever see. Advisory Planning Chair ...... Kelly Gray Or so supremely satisfied Placement & Nominating Chair ...... Carrie Ferguson that what we are is all we ever hope to be. Grant us the joy of filling someone’s need. Make us gracious followers, The Junior League of Monroe make gracious those who lead. 2811 Cameron Street • Monroe, LA 71201 And more than all we pray, Office 318-322-3236 (Terri Arthur) that through the years, we will remember Fax 318-322-3299 there are always new frontiers. Office Hours: Mondays-Thursdays • 8:30 am–2:30 pm Website: www.jlmonroe.com Amen. League Year: June 1, 2013- May 31, 2014 — fall 2013 CHARLONS
4 i n e v e r y i s s u e CHARLONS — fall 2013 Advertise in Charlons Advertise business, League, grow your Support the and in Charlons! Effective and advertise Junior the with advertising affordable League of Monroe. space and Please address all advertising Fund Development rate queries to the . committee at [email protected] Jennifer Lizenby Cover photograph by: Photography Board Photographs by: Jennifer Lizenby Photography, Lamar Photography, and Cindy Thompson Photography Provisionals Photographs by: Lamar Photograhpy 2 Lillian Paxton Joann Powell Angela Grubbs 13 14 28 33 35 36 Charlons Committee Melissa Kiper, Co-Chair/Co-Editor Melissa Kiper, Jennifer Lizenby, Creative Director Creative Lizenby, Jennifer Heather Guillot, Co-Chair/Co-Editor Submit information, articles, and photos, articles,Submit information, photos, and for publication in the NEXT issue of Charlons! for contents advertisers and patronize them. St. Francis Medical Center Community Trust Bank Community Community College Louisiana Delta Kilpatrick’s Randy Smith Jewelers Thurman’s Food Factory Center Lefebvre Veterinary Medical Painter’s Palette Bank Ouachita Independent advertisers The Charlons staff encourages you to thank our 8 3 4 6 26 27 17 20 21 22 23 25 20 28 29 15 16 17 18 24 28 Provisional Committee Kids in the Kitchen Marketing and Public Relations Families Can’t Wait Placement and Nominating Research and Development Cotton Bayou Publications Done in a Day Spring Market Educational Task Force House and Arrangements Yearbook and Webmaster Admissions committee news Tools for Literacy- Adopt a Student 2013-2014 Provisional Class Endowment Fund Contributors Babies in Bloom Portraits by Lamar for your information Welcome - The Pep Squad Tools for Literacy School Supply Drive Back to School Bash Life of a League Family Having a Ball with the Board features 2013-2014 Board Biographies Birthdays Bulletin Board About JLM Association Prayer Community Projects Board of Directors President’s Message President’s in every issue in every CHARLONS — fall 2013 i n e v e r y i s s u e The Bulletin Board isfor you! Please send usphotos ofnoteworthy events alongwithadescription of the Babies inBloom Babies event to befeatured ontheJLM BulletinBoard. page5for See information aboutsubmissions.
6
the NFL’s Cleveland Browns. Browns. NFL’s Cleveland the
sive tackle) before he left for training camp with with camp training for left he before tackle) sive
- defen football LSU & WMHS (former Mingo KiKi Jenna, Jace & John Rome Ables got to visit with with visit to got Ables Rome John & Jace Jenna,
i n e v e r y i s s u e CHARLONS — fall 2013
th
-7 nd
Best wishes to Chrissy Morris on her move to the Junior League of
Lafayette.
early with early
December 2 December JLM Vendor Pass! Vendor JLM
JLM Provisionals, Actives and Sustainers teamed up for the New Orleans Adventure Race in October.The race consisted of a 5 mile canoe, 7 mile run and 12 mile bike. Left to right: Amanda May, Jennifer Morris, Brittany Hayes, Cydni Hanks, Heather Guillot, Melissa Kiper, Kara Devinney, Amy Bartlett, Meredith Beene
and Meredith Hayes. Do Christmas shopping shopping Christmas Do
7
DIAD shift! DIAD
to sign up for for up sign to Don’t forget forget Don’t
"Cooking in High Cotton" makes a great Christmas gift! Don’t forget friends, family & your child’s
school teachers!
Send email and pics to Jennifer Lizenby: Jennifer to pics and email Send
did with friends over the holidays! the over friends with did
family outings, or fun things you things fun or outings, family Tell Charlons about your travels, your about Charlons Tell
Need to update your mailing address? You can now do it online at www.jlmonroe.org CHARLONS — fall 2013 b o a r d biographies 2013-2014 Board Biographies And twirling leavesfall tothegroundigniting magicallaround. Autumn comeson fierywingofflamingleaves,and redbirdssing. Denise Simpson Denise President President ofPALS at West Middle Ridge as serves PTO, her timewithClaiborne the Junior League, Jennifer volunteers additionto beingamember of In Elect. for 2years, Community VP, andPresident- where Kitchen, shewas alsotheChairman inthe placements have includedKids of Monroe in2009andhercommittee ShejoinedtheJuniorLeague (2). Jace (9),and children, Rome (12),John Jenna for 14years have andthey 3beautiful to herhusband,been married Brandon, fitness industry for 17+ years. Jennifer has hasbeeninthe Hogs.Monroe Road She Run Coach Fit andowns 3Girl and West isaFitness from ULM. Jennifer Trainer & inPsychology,a BachelorofArts both inExercise ofScience Master and Science Shehasa resides in West Monroe, LA. Jennifer isanative ofMonroe butnow Jennifer Ables President-Elect for thepasteighteen years andcurrently with childrenEducation. Shehas worked Childhood Special Education andEarly graduatedDenise from NLU withaBAin willforabout His theirlives. in God’s and love more learning ministry fireDenise andher family are pit. active night, orroasting marshmallows over the uptogether intheir bed onFridaycurling eating dinnertogether around thetable, oftheirfavorite areSome familyactivities to spendtimetogether attheirhome. love family her and Denise (7). Janie and arethey proud parents to Franklin (8) Simpson, seventeen years ago. Together thelove ofherlife, married Denise Don 8 involvement through League activities. andcommunity and dedicationto service and oneisableto seeaservant’s heart League ofMonroe isahonorandprivilege oftheJunior believes thatbeingapart community. Jennifer family, friends and hood through giving ofyourself to your ofservant- demonstrate theimportance League provides away for awoman to Jennifer feels theJunior of theirlives. theirbestinALLaspect canbe so they training and development of women Jennifer becauseofthefocus on toThe JuniorLeague isimportant LouisianaMiss Organization. judgefor the She alsoisapreliminary Teen Pageants. International Arkansas andMississippi for Mississippi theMrs. causes.charitable Jennifer isastate judge Shelby’s Wish, CMNTandmany other School, Ministries, Twin Ballet, Mercy City better forcommunity ourchildren. love withtheLeague our andto make to helpeachindividualmemberfallin Denise’s goalas President thisyear is Junior League ofMonroe’s President. as This year ishonored Denise to serve Nominating andPlacement committees. Provisional,and chaired Market, Spring better.community on Shehasserved to our people and meet tonew make She joinedtheLeague for reasons: two has always beenenjoyable andfulfilling. saysDenise thatherLeague experience Crumbs from Christ. Chapter and Boardon Membership including hermembership in AKDRho also involved with other organizations Hayesat Jack Elementary. is Denise forworks OuachitaParish System School Belle WhittingtonBelle b o a r d biographies CHARLONS — fall 2013 9
Education in 1999, then with an MBA in Education 2001. by has been employed Gretchen Ouachita Independent the past Bank for and manages the credit years eleven service function of the bank. members of Jesus the Good are Tisers The provisional Gretchen’s Church. Shepherd was 2008-2009. year time Since that Task she has served the Education on Bayou and the Cotton Committee Force Committee. co- In 2011-2012, Gretchen Committee. Bayou the Cotton chaired High School. Toni workspart-time an as High Toni School. ELA Interventionist at Riser Middle School. Portico attends Family Baggiano The loves Toni Monroe. in downtown Church serve to counts it a huge others and be a parthonor to of the Junior League As years. these past four of Monroe part servedhas she as League, Junior the of the Chair of Done-in-a-Day and Co-Chair views Toni Committee. of the Provisional of the each experience and endeavor as an opportunityJunior League serve to which she those within our community, loves! and school counselor. After spending After counselor. and school and part at home mom stay time as a returned she teacher, time preschool time in 2013. Christy full teaching to is Claiborne at grade 4th teaching enjoying year. this Monroe West Elementary in Christy active members her family are and Monroe West of Baptist Church of First Christy her time volunteers West). (First student and children the in helping ministryChristy church. her at areas served in 2009 and joined the League 3 she where Wait, Can’t on Families years Christy 2 years. says was the chair for and has truly the League that she loves new people meeting so many enjoyed contactin come have never may she who with otherwise.
Gretchen Lanius Tiser, a native of Vidalia, Vidalia, of a native Tiser, Lanius Gretchen the for of Monroe has been a resident is married to Gretchen years. past eleven been marriedThey have nine Tiser. Jason Lucy and twin daughters, and have years, who will soon be three. Lee, Margaret also expectingThey are twin daughters in November. Louisiana from graduated Gretchen in Secondary University with a B.S. Tech Financial VP Financial Tiser Gretchen Toni Baggiano Toni Alabama. up in Montgomery, grew Toni college at Samford She attended University in Birmingham, Alabama in English, Speech majored she where been She has Communication/Theatre. and 18 years for Wilson married Ron to in 2005. Monroe to they family relocated Hinson two children, they have Together (13) and Carrison (8). a Doctoral is currently candidate Toni University and is Tech at Louisiana Junior completing her internship at Lee Community VP Community 2013-2014 Board Biographies Board 2013-2014
Christy Valentine Ferguston when Monroe West Christy to moved in has lived 6 months old and she was has been She since. ever Cities Twin the West from also Valentine, marriedMark to they have Together years. 18 for Monroe, and (10), Collyn (14), Conner children, 3 a favorite (6). Intime, Carson free their Tech family activity LA is watching football. Tech Louisiana Christy from graduated in University in 1995 with a degree Elementary her She received Education. Master’s Degree in Counseling in 1997. she has worked in her life Throughout She School System. the Ouachita Parish teacher as a classroom 14 years dedicated Communications VP Communications CHARLONS — fall 2013 b o a r d biographies 2013-2014 Board Biographies Meghan PlummerMeghan Financial VP Asst. including 2 years as Co-Chairman and including 2years asCo-Chairman Committee, years Market on theSpring 4 in2008andserved of Shreveport originally joined theJuniorLeagueJodee Directors. Cross Red Boardand theAmerican of ontheMonroe JuniorGarden Club serves President Affairs.Jodee also ofExternal as companies, where sheisserving Vice- timefor herfamily’s part enjoys working mostdays,While athomewithJoe Jodee welcome (4months). theirson,Joe andwereof Rayville, recently blessedto Dr. married Jodee KyleBruyninckx,native State and University Tulane Law School. from School, Louisiana OuachitaChristian isaMonroe native.Jodee Shegraduated Bruyninckx Jodee Development VP Research & time withseveral different organizations. League life, Jenny enjoys volunteering her addition to herfamilylife, career life and is adentalassistantwithDr. Tim Perry. In Currently she orthodontics. Steve Norris dental fieldasaclinicalassistantwithDr. her careerULM), Jenny in the started with aBachelorsDegree from NLU (now Monroe BaptistChurch. After graduating (5). The Pankeys are membersofNorth (13)&Ella(18), Justin(15),Christopher & together have they 4children, Jamen than 20years. to BJPankey Sheismarried but Monroe hasbeenherhomefor more Jenny and raised in was born Tallulah, Pankey Jenny Hopkins VP Membership ChurchMethodist inMonroe. Meghan She is a member of First United Manager.Lead Marketing where asthe sheworks CenturyLink 4 years, shehasbeenemployed with 2007, Administration in2008.For thepast in Marketing ofBusiness and withaMasters in Science of and graduated withaBachelor attended Louisiana Tech University School.graduate She High ofNeville isanative ofMonroeMeghan anda 10 improve ourbeloved community. potential ofmembers, andcontinue to to promote voluntarism, develop the embodiesourmission thatclearly service future that proposes for aframework strategic plan to create avisionfor our hopestoJodee helprevise theLeague’s position as VP ofResearch &Development, get ourattention. Through hercurrent were sohappy justto have somefunand was touched by thesweet children who ofthe was apart TLC committee and outreach. Lastyear,Done-in-a-Day Jodee placements and throughcommunity the through our lives ofthepeopleserved our League adifference makes inthe organization. trulybelieves that Jodee the decisionto stay intheJuniorLeague happy with League andhasbeenvery transferredJodee to the Monroe Junior family moved backto Monroe lastfall, in2011-2012. then Chairman When her excellent role modelsfor ourcommunity. of Monroe, which continues to provide proud memberoftheJuniorLeague andisa inourcommunity to service this organization ofwomen isdedicated believes 2012-2013. She during Co-chair committee member, as but also served years prior shehasnotonly beena In oftheProvisionalas apart Committee. most ofherJuniorLeague Life serving better the community. Shehasdedicated & womenchristian whowantto serve alongsideother that shecouldserve Jenny joined JuniorLeague in2009so CrossRed andSalvationArmy. School, NELSAsoccer, ULM,theAmerican TheseShepherd the Good include Jesus our League andcommunity. toforward many more years serving sofar.experience islooking Meghan VP andsays ithasbeenanamazing onboard asAssistant Financialserving this pastyear. This isherfirst year Bash the Mash co-chaired Meghan Cross. Red and theNELAAmerican United Way campaign atCenturyLink League, shehas volunteered with the addition to beingamemberofJunior In Bayou Publications committee. onandchaired theCottonserved joined theLeague in2010 andhas 2013-2014 Board Biographies Monroe and is active in the local ACTS Advisory Planning community. Kelly especially enjoys Chair traveling, spending time with family, Kelly Gray and volunteering locally. Kelly is married to Michael Gray and Kelly joined the Junior League of they have one son Henry (2). She Monroe in 2006. Since then she has is a graduate of ULM with degrees served on both the Spring Market and in Finance and Economics. She Provisional committees and has Co- currently works for Community Trust Chaired Cotton Bayou Publications. Bank in Ruston as a loan underwriter. She has served as Assistant Financial The Gray family attends Jesus the VP and Financial VP and is currently Good Shepherd Catholic church in serving as Advisory Planning Chair.
and high school math for 10 years, and Nominating & has worked as a school administrator for Placement Chair 10 years. Currently, Carrie is the Assistant Carrie Ferguson Principal at Riser Middle School in the Carrie has lived in West Monroe for most Ouachita Parish School System. of her life, and is pleased to be a part of Carrie says that her goal in joining the a family oriented community that helps Junior League of Monroe in 2008 was others. She is married to Christopher to volunteer in the community outside Ferguson, and they have three children— of my regular field of education and Lauren (15), Lynsey (11), and Andrew (7). schools. She wanted to meet and work Carrie and her husband are active in the with other women with a variety of activities of their children. The Ferguson professions and volunteer experiences. family attends First Baptist Church. Carrie has enjoyed her time with the After graduating from West Monroe Junior League and is happy to have met High School, Carrie completed her wonderful women who give of their Bachelor’s degree in Elementary time, talents, and treasures. Carrie served Education at Louisiana Tech in 1993 on the Webmaster/Yearbook committee and began teaching middle school and as the Communications Council math. Continuing her education, she Vice-President. As she begins her second then obtained her Master’s Degree in year on board, she is reminded of the Administration and Supervision from importance of every single Junior League the University of Louisiana at Monroe in member. Carrie believes each woman is 1998. Carrie earned her Doctoral Degree essential to accomplishing our goals in in Curriculum and Instruction from the community and the Junior League of Louisiana Tech in 2005. She taught middle Monroe is blessed with great women. “Autumn... the year’s last, loveliest smile.” William Cullen Bryant
11 CHARLONS — fall 2013 b o a r d biographies 2013-2014 Board Biographies for theUnited Way Louisiana, ofNortheast withtheJLM,Ashleyher work volunteers additionto In Church. United Methodist Frederick are members ofSt.Paul’s active She and haveand they one son, Hayes. to FrederickAshley ismarried West, the Fund Committee. Development and PRCommittee of andasChairman the JLMasamemberofMarketing 2008 Provisional class, Ashley hasserved 2007- Officer. the of Relations A member Bank where sheisnow theCommunity and beganhercareer withProgressive she movedOle Miss, home to Monroe After graduating from of Mississippi. and Political from Science theUniversity Degree inEconomics a BachelorofArts andearned School Ouachita Christian A native ofMonroe, Ashley attended Ashley West DevelopmentFund VP several Wash World operates and owns Coldwell Group Banker OneRealty. Dale at Realtors Producing100+ of out Realtor the designation of 2012 “Top Gun”- #1 18years, where shewasawarded for andhasbeenarealtor Parish Schools withOuachita isaretiredJan educator of First BaptistChurch of West Monroe. hunting camp. andDaleare Jan members in thepoolattheirhouse, oratthe the Sea-Doos, whether atCaneyLake on of theirfree timeontheirgrandchildren, grandchildren. andDalefocus Jan most 2great havethey 13grandchildren and to her husband Dale and together, West Monroe allherlife. Sheismarried inMonroe andhaslived wasborn Jan in Mattingly Jan Secretary Corresponding Board ofLife Choices andisasustainerof leader for on the 30 years. Shealsoserves Wesleyan Church andhasbeenayouth Life is alsoamemberofNew Kerri 16, 2013. Brooks August born William Oellermann, also isaproud grandparent new to and husbandBrad, andRoss Wall. She have children, two Chelsie Oellermann to Doug ismarried WallKerri andthey WallKerri Sustainer Advisor 12 and ultimately making adifference.”and ultimately making touching lives, improving community, towardall striving common goals— withsuchtalented,work capablewomen andgrowlearn asavolunteer. isajoy to “It serve. Ashley feels theJLMhashelpedher to and isgrateful for theopportunity as aresponsibilityopposedto achoice you, thenwho?” philanthropy Sheviews One ofAshley’s favorite quotes is not “If Saints! Orleans and theNew Rebels teams—the OleMiss are always for cheering favorite their two fans,Avid Frederick sports andAshley isspendingtimewithherfamily.activity Herfavorite andAuction. Chamber Gala Committee for Chairman theMonroe asthe2013 Campaign Cabinet andserves She isamemberofthe2013United Way Louisiana Cross. Red American Northeast the Children’s Center, Advocacy andthe on several differenthas served committee she membership her During 2007-2008. JL! She hadanexciting Provisional year in couldn’t beabetter timefor enjoying since she was a young adult, and this beenonher list”“bucket of Monroe has becoming amemberoftheJunior League saysJan thathaving thehonorof and carwashes.washaterias special organization. ofthisuniqueand part productive a hopes to spendmany more years as Jan ofourcommunity.the betterment because of a strong desire to volunteer for a diverse group of women bond together isamazed athow such as Secretary. She ontheBoard ofDirectors currently serving forHouse &Arrangements 2years. is Jan Chair, Spring Chairfor 2years, Market and These have included: Tour Co- ofKitchens assignments indifferent capacities. Sustainer in2011. that shestayed and chaired TLC President andwent and (2008). Sheloved theLeague somuch (2007) President-Elect the Board asMembership VP (2006), and chaired TLC. on Shealso served the Operation Abstinence Committee, on when theLeague beganCASA,served for adoubleplacement years, two served chaired GUS(Growing UpStrong) Camp Kerri’s provisional year was1996andshe the JuniorLeague ofMonroe. CHARLONS — fall 2013 -
-
choice:
Programs of Study Programs of You provide the provide You School of Liberal Arts School of Liberal Young Care and Development of - Trans Studies | LA | General Children Teaching Arts | fer Office Technology | ICT Computer Technology | ICT Office Networking Support School of Health Sciences Technician Medical Emergency School of Technology Air Conditioning and Refrigeration | Barber Technology Automotive | Styling | Carpentry | CNC Specialist School of Business | Business Technology Business and Administration | Business Office Assistant | Patient Care | Nurse Operations Vehicle | Commercial Technician / Phlebotomy | Practical Technician Nursing | Registered Nurse Therapy | Respiratory - Technol | Diesel Powered Equipment Technology ogy | Drafting and Design | Electrician | Forensic Science | Technology Industrial Electronics Technol | Industrial Instrumentation Technol ogy | Industrial Maintenance ogy | LA Transfer Science | Process Transfer ogy | LA Welding | Technology
We offer the options; the offer We
13 Together Want To Be? To Want
www.ladelta.edu • (318) 345-9000 www.ladelta.edu
Ruston • Tallulah • West Monroe • Winnsboro Monroe • West • Tallulah Ruston •
Bastrop • Farmerville • Lake Providence • Monroe
Let’s Discover Let’s
Who Do You Do Who Louisiana Delta Community College — fall 2013 CHARLONS
14 Adopt-A-Student 2013-2014 TLC Program Adopt-A-Student Program e e t t i m m o c Each year the community project, Tools and Literacy for 56 Contributors Totaling $5,565 Children (TLC), continues to advance the cause of helping children living in poverty. Through our programs, we Adopted 1 Student Adopted 2 Students have seen many lives changed for the better! Lindsey Roberts Ashley West s w e n Our TLC committee has worked with Barkdull Faulk Julie Pruitt Ashley Jarrell Elementary, Clara Hall Elementary, and Carver Elementary Dawn Sager Christy & Eddie Flanigen School and is very excited to embark on a new adventure Sadye & Art Richert Ann Padgett with Thomas Jefferson Upper Elementary School this Anonymous Dolores Johnson year! Through the generosity of League members and Dianne Cage Dibble Pate McLaughlin the community last year, we were able to purchase Chelsie Ferraci Barbara Estis uniforms and school supplies for all 300 of the students Pat Godfrey Angie Sager at Carver Elementary. Cynthia Smith Mildred Vanderpool Beverly Jarrell Courtney Curry The services the League provides are vital in helping Dr. & Mrs. Dave Lawrence Joy McElroy children break the cycle of poverty. Statistics have shown Pam Stratton Betsy Laudenheimer that Monroe is ranked as the third poorest city in the US Janet Walters Susan Lowery among cities with a population of over 50,000. Eighty Mossy Sartor Guinn Rhelda & Dr. Mike Nolan percent of female-headed households with children Dr. & Mrs. Lane Eddleman Lynda Gavioli under five are living below the poverty level; 30 percent Kasey Witherington Carol Kight of children living in Ouachita Parish live in poverty. These Janet & Charles Masur Patti Nelson statistics are heartbreaking but serve as a wakeup call Lisa Keyes Sylvia Loftin and an opportunity for us to reach out to those in need. Faith & Joe Gremillion Kerri & Doug Wall Dr. & Mrs. Dean Stockstill Jane Luffey This summer we actively sought sponsors for our uniform Gretchen Dean Debby Edgerton program to make an immediate difference in the life of a Paula Stidham child at Thomas Jefferson Upper Elementary. For $150.00, Tomi Tharp League members could provide two students with two Jan Mattingly Other Amounts sets of uniforms, a pair of shoes, and a belt. We had hoped Katharine Spires Donated to reach the same goal as last year by raising enough Molly Williams money to outfit every student in need and ended up Kathryn Raymond Emily Burrows Susan Stephens raising $5,565.00! We want to thank the following Mamie & Tim Nelson Nancy Inabnett contributors that shared our vision for a better tomorrow Olive Sartor Anne Patten for children in our community. Adriene Washington Stephanie Arvie Submitted by: Carmen Parks, Tools & Literacy for Children, Chair
Be Our Guest The Admissions committee communicates with potential members seeking information about JLM which includes inviting them to attend our ‘Bring a Guest’ meeting held in November. Our committee also prepares the membership packets each year and distributes these to members and potential Provisional members for completion. We collect these packets and get the required signatures for sponsorship, collate the personal information and prepare acceptance letters for the upcoming
Provisional class. We work with the chair of the Sustainers on Stand By committee to set a date for the Provisional reception CHARLONS — fall 2013 held each spring. We communicated with a few potential members about League membership requirements and discussed potential dates for the Provisional reception for the upcoming 2014-2015 Provisional class. We would like to contact a few other Leagues to find out what their process is for Admissions to see if there are areas for improvement in our current process and to get a few new ideas. We love to communicate with potential members and share our excitement about the League and encourage them to join our November meeting. We love to work with members to encourage them to bring in potential members for the next upcoming Provisional class. We also love seeing the excitement on each Provisional’s face at the Spring Provisional reception.
Submitted by: Carla Simmons and Shelly Harrell, Admissions Committee Co-Chairs 15 f e a t u r e - l i f e o f a l e a g u e f a m i l y end oftheyear, ifyou love theLeague alittlemore, andwe made the blame forwill be the one who takes many mistakes. Butat the and thecommunity. Yes, alongtheway, mistakes Iwillmake andI placement thisyear. Iwantto dowhatIthinkasbestfor ourLeague aboutit.I seethePresidency asmy prayingafter andthinking wanted Ichangedmy to beonacommitteemind anddomy part. wanted to bePresident. Ididn’t even wantto beonBoard. Ijust madeyouWhat want to become President of theLeague? Inever rewarding withlove. andsoistheLeague. iswork Marriage Butbothcanbevery with the League. you don’t If love it, you won’t time for make it. when thingsgetrough you would leave orrun. The sameistrue to someoneyou didn’tbe married coursenot,because love? Of other members, and won’t stay inthe League. Would you want to members won’t fulfilltheirobligations, won’tkind words have for without love, theLeague willdie. Without alove for theLeague, all jointheLeague to better ourselves andourcommunities. But forlove tointheLeague? implanted be Why isitimportant We oftheLeague.being part these aremetheproudest thethingsthatmake ofourLeague and members, orjustencouraging eachotherwhenthingsgowrong, to sick members, to weeding flower beds to help other league thecommunity. Fromanother inadditionto food serving carrying thatourgirlshelpone Butitmay notbeknown that isknown. meproud.makes We and are ourcommunity aLeague thatserves made you proud? When Iseeourladieshelpingeachother,that intheLeague issomethingthathashappened What thathas League haschangedmeandmadeabetter person. for to them. dosomethingoutoftheordinary the opportunity The call friends. Ihave how talented learned women canbewhengiven the League, Iwouldn’t ladiesInow have meetany ofthewonderful Why doyou love theLeague? Love the League. children thought of what their they wife/mom being president of about her family? We decided to ask Denise, her husband and We thatourPresident allknow isinlove withtheLeague butwhat Life ofaLeague Family from thePresident, Denise: I love theLeague becausewithout 16 don’t love? League. How to canwe love askthecommunity somethingwe others aboutourLeague andletthemseehow muchwe love our grandma.makes, andeven how itlookslike Well we needto tell hear all about what the baby does, how is smells, what sounds it grandparent you fallinlove makes grandbaby. withthat new You about it.Have to you grandparent? anew ever talked That change. The membershiphasto love theLeague andtell others to beinvolvedcommunity inloving theLeague, we have to around we make us.because oftheimpact Butifwe want the loving theLeague? willalways loveThe community theLeague How doyou we feel can getthecommunity more involved in front ofmembershiporany group. that. Iwasnotalways like believe inmyself more. in Now Ilove gettingupandspeaking was selfconsciousabouteverything. The League hasmademe and selfconfidence. low Ihave selfesteem. I always hada very something inyour life? The League has helped my self esteem isonepositiveWhat thingtheLeague hasdoneto change andothers.community happier thanfor meto give my children their adesire to serve President oftheJuniorLeague oneday. me Nothingwould make for theirmommy to bePresident ofanything. wantsto Janie be to the League. childrendedication and service My think it’s cool ofmy hasalways again.Don beensosupportive Market Spring that Icoulddoanything intheLeague aslongIdidn’t chair me to be President toaboutit.Hetold Don me Italked Elect, nominating calledmeandtold methatmembershipvoted for How your does you about familyPresident? feel being When year asPresident wassuccessful. by helpingothers, inthecommunity a positive thenmy impact community andthingsoutside their dailylives.community to to contribute the At thesametimegives themanopportunity together to have a release routine outside their normal and jobs. it allows women withbusyschedulesand families to get doyouWhat love theLeague? about Ilove theLeague because League. showedproblems herlove andthefuture for wasuncertain the to intheLeague beactive even whenshewasbattling health love for theLeague? Denise’s for concern theLeague anddesire are some things yourWhat wife has done that has shown her children withouttheinterferenceoftheirmother. hasallowed meto spendalotmoretimewithour life? It quality oftheLeague your changed family How apart hasherbeing was. loving, caring, andgiving assheever the sametimeshehasremained as her, butshehastoughened up. At her life, would Denise letthingshurt caring, and giving. At one time in isloving, Denise I love herheart! thewomanand shehasbecome? doyouWhat love your about wife Love from your husband, Don: from your children, Janie and Having a Ball Franklin:Love e r u t a e f How do you feel now that your mom is with the Board the President of the Junior League? Janie: On June 4th our newly elected President, Denise
It makes me feel like I’m in the Junior Simpson, organized her first get-together for the League’s ~ League, and I like it. I also like being in the 2013-2014 year. Since baseball season was in full swing, magazine. Franklin: I feel like she’s gone g n i v a h crazy with the League. I also feel like I Denise cleverly dubbed the event, “Come Have a Ball want to be President of the United States with the Board.” The event was a meet and greet for one day. League members’ husbands and friends and a way for
members to get to know our newly elected JLM Board. a What’s the coolest thing about your mom? Janie: It’s because she’s sweet to me and cooks for To coordinate with the theme, tailgate style food was l l a b us. She’s funny! served and fun baseball themed games were played. What’s “not” the coolest thing about your mom? Franklin: Everyone in attendance had a “ball!” She gives me whippings and fixes me food I don’t like Submitted by: Melissa Kiper sometimes. Example: red beans and rice What do you think is the one thing your mom loves the most about being President? Janie: She gets to speak up in front of the meetings. I think it’s like she’s a hero. Franklin: She can do stuff that she can’t do as a member. What are the first three words that pop into your head when you think of the League? Janie: My mommy and people Franklin: Craziest idea ever Submitted by: Heather Guillot
Funding for Teachers though Mini-Grants The Education Task Force promotes education in our parish by supporting area teachers and students. We provide mini-grants for area teachers and ACT workshops to area juniors and seniors. We continue to be a foundation partner and patron of the annual Scholars’ Banquet. We provide 16 hours of ACT Prep classes to selected students at two area high schools. We select the recipients for our
Junior League Mini-Grants in November and begin making CHARLONS — fall 2013 plans for the annual Scholars’ Banquet in early spring. “I love my committee because we make a difference in the lives of teachers and students. I love that we provide students assistance in raising their ACT score to become eligible for college. I love that we provide opportunities and funding for teachers to provide projects and activities to their classes that would not be funded from other Pictured: sources,” said Mandy. Top - Denise Simpson and her husband, Don Submitted by: Mandy Green, Middle - Ashley West and her husband, Frederick Educational Task Force Committee Chair Bottom - Jenny Pankey and her husband, BJ 17 t l c c o m m i t t e e n e w s 18 Submitted by: Carmen Parks, Carmen Submitted by: TLC Committee Chair making theteacher’smaking jobaneasierone! off to theschool time foryear. thekick This willgoalongway in School SupplyDriveSchool Over thesummer,Over theJuniorLeague ofMonroe and Centric Federal Credit Union joined together to FederalCentric collect Credit Union joined school suppliesfor Thomas Jefferson Upper Elementary the schoolsupplieswere delivered onAugust 12 School. Afterthedonations, several weeks ofcollecting With thehelpofayouth group from Life New Wesleyan hrh eachteacher wasgiven abagfullofmuch church, needed items. Thanks to allthepeople who donated money, suppliesandtime. They were ableto provide books, paper, andhandsanitizer, pencils, Kleenex, allin each teacher attheschoolwith2inchbinders, speckle th . Back to School with c l t
Thomas Jefferson e e t t i m m o c Upper Elementary Back to The back to school event at Thomas Jefferson Upper Elementary School was great from
beginning to end. The Junior League of Monroe’s s w e n Tools for Literacy in Children committee held the School back to school kick-off to get students, parents and teachers excited about the new school year. There were over 400 people in attendance. A pep rally was held which included the Jefferson BASH! starting line-up and every teacher was introduced. The Wossman cheerleaders, MLK dance line and MLK cheerleaders entertained the crowd. The teachers played games while the students cheered them on. After the pep rally there was a wide variety of games including an obstacle course, football and basketball toss, cupcake walk, snow cones and door prizes. Centric Federal Credit Union and JP Morgan Chase were there and giving away items to families. JP Morgan Chase provided their mascot “chase the dog” for the event. The students’ faces lit up with excitement when they saw that big blue dog. Monroe Police Department was also at the event and students could tour their tactical unit. At the end of the event, parents were invited to meet their child’s teacher. Teachers met parents in their classroom for a meet and greet, which also allowed parents to see creative learning tools the teachers have made to help their students. Families were also given a meal for each family member on their way home, provided by Canes of Monroe. It was a fun and eventful night with tons of participation from staff, parents and students. It was great to see students, parents and teachers socializing outside of school hours and creating bonds that will last the whole year. Overall it was a great way to kickoff the school year!
Submitted by: Carmen Parks, TLC Committee Chair
19 A Much Needed Facelift n e w s If you have visited the League House at all over the last couple of months, it’s obvious that House and Arrangements just completed a very busy and very productive summer. Committee members worked tirelessly to completely reorganize and renovate the League House. c o m m i t t e e Over the summer, the air duct ruptured in the attic in the main hall and tiles began to fall and the air conditioner in the back room went out. House and Arrangements’ chair, Nicole West’s, husband is a building contractor and did all the repairs, finishing before the first general meeting! The workers reinforced the doors and reinstalled the hardware so that now, our keys can only be used on the front door. There is now surround sound, an ice maker, a new dishwasher, range, sink and there will soon be a new oven. The hard work paid off - “Loving the new lights and just one switch! Makes all the rearranging worth it!” says Anya Fulco. Terri Bursey adds that “the renovations are wonderful. The arrangement of the two rooms draws the distinction between the social setting and functional setting for the meetings.” But House and Arrangements is not quite done with their hard work on the renovations. They still have finishing touches to the remodel and preparing for another great year. Submitted by Nicole West, House and Arrangements Committee Chair
2013-2014 Endowment Dolores Johnson in memory of Audrey Malloy in memory of her mother Lena Wallace Helen Edwards Fund Contributors Dorothy Hart in memory of Louise Altick Marilyn Waller in memory of Louise Altick Dawn & Harlan Sager in memory of Wendy Giovingo in memory of Jamie Pettway in memory of James Louise Altick Louise Altick Pettway and in honor of Jamie Margaret Martha Foster in memory of her Mother, I.V. Tanguis Mills (her granddaughter) Betty Wills Mallory Williams Mary Brinkerhoff in honor of Sybil Lefebvre Robin Fincher Emily Williamson Susan & Ed Coates in memory of Leigh Nolan Louise Altick & Pete Kelly Susan Crawford in memory of Louise Altick Mary Ann McElroy in memory of Louise & Jan & Ralph Brockman in memory of Bill Bishop Lisa Ellington Louise Altick TK Waugh in memory of parents Beverly Jarrell in memory of Dr. Palmer Terri & Roy Arthur in memory of Jarrell Jean & Sherman Shaw in memory of Louise Altick Louise & Jim Altick Nancy Davis Courtman in memory of Cydni Hanks Mrs. Ronald Lee Davis, Sr. Sybil Lefebvre in memory of Mr. & Mrs. John Felicia Kostelka Carol Cudd in memory of Flora Wilkins Rhorer Lil & Syd Breard in memory of Pete Kelly Mrs. Tex Kilpatrick Christy Flanigen in memory of John Posey, James Schiro, & Marlene Hilkirk Mamie Nelson in memory of Florine Nelson Dianne Cage & Florine Taylor Michele Brown Barbara Estis Georgia Street in memory of Louise Altick Mary Ann Roark in memory of Louise & Lana Forte John Ferguson Cathy Whipple
— fall 2013 CHARLONS Regina Wood in memory of Dean Hart Katharine Spires 20 Get Your Charity Shopping Pass! e r u t a e f We are so excited to bring back our Charity Shopping Pass again this year. ~
It was such a great success in 2012, y t i r a h c with vendors and shoppers alike, that we can’t wait for the holiday shopping
season to begin! And for those of you who missed this event last year, g n i p p o h s you won’t want to miss out this year because it is going to be better than ever!
How does the Charity Shopping s s a p Pass work? It’s simple. Purchase your Charity Shopping Pass for $10 and receive a discount at over 50 local retailers when you shop between the 2nd and 7th of December. So now you can shop local for Christmas and have enough left over to get a little (or a lot) of something for you! And this year we are excited to announce in addition to these retailers you will also receive a discount at some of Monroe’s favorite restaurants! Can you say date night? So where can you purchase these tickets? Starting November 11th you can buy your tickets from any JLM member, many of the retailers involved in the event or stop by the League house Monday-Thursday from 8:30-2:30 to buy them there. And these passes are such a great price you can afford to get one for yourself, your friend and your son/daughter’s favorite teacher! Remember all proceeds from ticket sales go to help us fund projects such as Kids in the Kitchen, Families Can’t Wait and Tools and Literacy for Children. As well as funding our mini grants that are given to deserving nonprofits every year. Submitted by Amy Lange. Therese Nagem, Charity Shopping Pass Chair Embracing Social Media Our committee is responsible for production of the yearbook, keeping our website current, and sending most email blasts from JLM. Our committee keeps our League engaged and informed through a variety of media outlets, such as our yearbook, website, and now a Facebook page. Missi and our committee spent the summer making contact with Closureware, getting our new website up and running and looking good. The training offered to Board Members and committee chairs was a success. It helped train them on how to navigate the site, email everyone in the League directly,
how to update and add notes to events and how to conduct CHARLONS — fall 2013 informal polls. Chairs and Board Members also learned where Designers want me to dress like to upload relevant pictures and documents, how to add and delete volunteer shifts, and how to add links to the website that have to do with events or other relevant topics. Spring, in billowing things. I It is our hope that the yearbooks will be ready for the November General meeting. We plan to update the Facebook page and don’t feel like Spring. I feel like a encourage League members to make posts regularly. Marilyn Monroe Submitted by: Cherry Coon, Yearbook and Webmaster Chair warm red Autumn.
21 CHARLONS — fall 2013 c o m m i t t e e n e w s Submitted by: Angie Nicholson, Done inaDay Done Committee Angie Chair Nicholson, Submitted by: committee chair. Nicholson, saiditbest, Theresa Hicks isthebestcommittee to on.” work “This leaves theirDIADevent thisyear feeling refreshed, madeadifference they andknowing inthelives ofsomeoneelse.”-Angie Ireallyfor feel inourcommunity, this committee hasa huge impact service. like andIsincerely hope each league member the Council onAging, Angel andhelpingdistribute Tree presents to families. “I love becauseIhave thiscommunity apassion to treelook forward several decoratingtheChristmas great for Ministries, events, theladiesatMercy including pampering in our area. elderly They also held the first meeting to plan and organizeevents the various for the year. This fall DIAD can the summer, ontheyear by assistingtheCouncil onAging thecommittee gotajumpstart passoutboxes offood to the ofevents andprojectsthroughout During theyear. inavariety to participate ladies oftheJuniorLeague anopportunity inaDayThe Done committee withnonprofit works organizations inthe Monroe/MonroeWest communities giving the One Day ata Time OurCommunity in anImpact Making 22 c o m m i t t e e n e w s CHARLONS — fall 2013 “The with the opportunity women provides to League Junior and meeting personal growth, make their community better, said Sabrina Racer. new people,” They LA. cookbooksMonroe, of a staple Bayou are “Cotton What years. many been a parthave of our kitchens many, for for a wonderfulpassing down continue us to tradition for said Mary Kathryn Edwards. come,” generations to Submitted by: Lindsey Swander, Cotton Bayou Publications Co-Chair Publications Bayou Cotton by:Submitted Lindsey Swander, 23 Collection Country Cotton Spring Market Spring About to Think
and The Bayou the , the most recent cookbook,, the most recent Cotton along with on
High
in Traditions
is Bayou Cotton Development Council, partAs of the Fund the budget from contributing the League to for responsible both been and I have Webb sales of its cookbooks. Celia upcoming year. the at work meeting and planning for hard working is comprised committee of hard Bayou Cotton The the with the League time to precious their who give women of our community constantly on their minds. improvement Cooking local attended We’ve cook. favorite your gifts for make great Arts and Monroe’s & Crafts festival such as Columbia’s events will also be at the River MarketWe and sold our cookbooks. December 14th. Be sure River Market on Saturday, in Monroe love! some and show by stop to Kitchen Submitted by: Tomi Tharp, Spring MarketTharp, Co-Chair Committee Tomi by:Submitted “Spring Market start supportis a fun and exciting to event spring as a vital fundraising to as well the Junior League and Kerri Meghan Sharp, Joiner, be chairing with Ashley to this year happy community I am of Monroe projects. has been working My role very and it has been a a fabulous committee. with merchants have James and we our market an extension become that love of and have merchants returning many have We experience. rewarding Tharp Tomi I am looking making forwardto the JLM family. Spring Market yet.” 2014 the best The women of this committee are engrossed in an event that requires a great deal of planning and effort. deal of planning At the a great that requires in an event engrossed are of this committee women The pulling off a end of Spring by Marketlabor come together seeing the fruits of their by rewarded weekend they are in our community thousands by areas. and surrounding attended successful event While Spring Market may seem far way in some minds, it is actually right around the corner. Already this summer Already While Spring Market it is actually the corner. minds, right in some around way seem far may meet. and Kerri Meghan to begun Sharp, have James, Joiner, Ashley Tharp, Tomi Spring Market, the chairs of 2014’s out merchants, lining raffles, start to meeting as early was committee great as August Their planning new events, members. committee their tasks to and assigning Spring Market is the League’s major fund raiser. Each year a group of devoted women organize a springgift/ organize women of devoted a group Each year raiser. major fund Spring Market is the League’s of the Springwomen The Market are committee States. United the over market all garden vendors from with filled constantly trying keep new and ideas to Spring come up with fresh we Market to so that profitable and exciting serve better may those in need in our community. Is it SpringIs it Yet? Early Too Never Celebrations CHARLONS — fall 2013 f e a t u r e ~ t hT e p e p s q u a d Jennifer Lord, Pep Chair Squad Kiper. Melissa Submitted by: to theLeague Bringing Cheer calendars for Friday, 13 December be catered. More details to come. sure Be your to mark andthefood willprovideBrockman will entertainment be heldatActive member, Nicole West’s, house. Alan andit’s sureparty to beablast! This year, will theparty The Pep isalready Squad planningtheannualChristmas isjustaroundBelieve itornot,butChristmas thecorner. and reach outto thecommunity. for ofsuchagreat usto cause show support opportunity and water donated by Super 1 Foods. This was a perfect cameby andmunched onbananas, bagels supporters Susan G.Komen’s for Race theCure. Runnersandother The Pep also set upatent Squad for ourJLMteam for Monroe andgive back.” wasnow timefor usto It jointheJuniorLeaguestarted. of year there were andbusinesses babiesborn, marriages, Provisional member, joinedwithagroup of8ladies. “Last to give andlearn community backtoo.” Leslie Hughes, members. Iwantto have my children involved inthe but wanted to do more. I’m impressed by other League “I’ve always inmysorority, beenactive American African meet people.” LaWanda Provisional Marsha, Member, said League by anotherDoctor’s wife. This isagreat way to said “I justmoved from Dallasandwasinvited to jointhe Leagueof a new year. Metts, Jessica Provisional Member, summer vacations, jobs, new families, andtheexcitement Dinner.Spring There were many conversations about to catch uponwhat’sopportunity beenhappeningsince an onthe patio andit gavewere everyone served great outofActives Provisionals! andnew turn Appetizers was thefallsocialheldatPorticoBarandGrill. There wasa filled year. Oneofthefirst events the Squadplanned Pep have already beenhard thiswillbeafun- ensuring atwork events for theLeague. The ladiesonthiscommittee boostmoraleamongmembersandplansocial
he Pep committee isanew formed Squad to th . 24 Committed to e e t t i m m o c Helping New Moms Families Can’t Wait was very busy this summer. The committee geared up for the new League year by completing training with Alicia Banks from the partner agency, Families Helping s w e n Families. Committee members also completed orientations at all of the hospitals. Over the summer FCW, designed new onesies to give to all first time moms that say “THIS SIDE UP” to remind all moms of safe sleep habits for newborns. Over the summer, the committee continued their service to our community by providing car seats and pack-n-plays to local organizations. FCW provided 10 car seats and 30 beds to the Nurse Family Partnership. Life Choices was provided with 10 car seats and 20 beds. Several more items were donated to the women’s shelter at the Wellspring. In August and September alone, FCW has already provided 10 beds and 9 car seats to more than 73 first time moms at “The Junior League provides women Glenwood, Conway, and St. Francis hospitals. FCW committee with the opportunity to make their members have also referred 47 NICU moms to Families community better…” Helping Families to receive additional assistance so far this fall. FCW remains committed to helping new moms understand the importance of safe sleep, proper infant care, and providing new moms with the necessary resources to be great mothers. In the Right Place The committee plans to continue to bless moms across The Placement and Nominating committee has our community on a weekly basis by helping to fulfill their been busy assigning new Placement Advisors to immediate needs. Active members and getting ready for upcoming Jamie Bryan said “Families Can’t Wait has been a great way to voting. General membership will cast their vote for give back to our community. By meeting with new moms, the 2014-15 Board Members by straw ballot during we are able to educate and do our best to prevent infant the November General meeting. This is an exciting mortality due to the lack of knowledge regarding safe sleeping time for the committee because they will be tallying procedures. FCW is also a great way to connect new moms votes and getting ready to announce the new Board with area resources they might now otherwise receive.” positions. Also they will begin reviewing positions for the new chairs for next year. If members have any “I love getting to meet new moms and getting to see their concerns or issues about their JLM placement, they humbled faces when we are able to fulfill a need for them,” CHARLONS — fall 2013 should contact their Placement Advisors. said Leslie Garvin. Placement Advisors are: Carrie Ferguson, Dana Mullins, Submitted by: Kara Devinney & Courtney Weston, Families Can’t JoEllen Showers, Christina Elahi, Lorette Lemoine, Kelly Wait, Co-Chairs Gray, and Jennifer Ables Submitted by: Heather Guillot
25 CHARLONS — fall 2013 c o m m i t t e e n e w s Development Chair Development Beatty, Robin Research and Submitted by: on whatto dointhefuture. thinktheyearthey hasgoneand give advice members get to voice their opinions on how environment. This isalsowhere League and willallow for amorehome comfortable placeatLeaguewill take members’ homes beginning year. ofthenew These meetings breakcottage meetingsthatwilltake atthe task willbeplanningand arranging next shouldinclude. on whatthepackets Their members. They would love somefeedback forwelcome packets andtransferred allnew onassembling committee isalsoworking lines upwithourmissionstatement. The League hasbeendoingandwillbe the sure thateverything consists ofmaking be metinthecommunity. The planalso gatherings, anddifferent needsthatcan fundraisingideas,that consistsofnew social 5year atimplantinganew plan are looking has beenbusywithstrategic planning. They The Research committee andDevelopment 5 YearOur with first experience League life, andcommittee members thattheprovisionalcommittee year knows willbeeachlady’s the future leadersoftheJuniorLeague ofMonroe.” The to thefuturecommittee iskey oftheleague...we develop As Dana Tarver seesit, Provisional “The the Provisionals. this year for amemorableandenjoyable experience Provisional committee members are committed to making Sarah Raymond League.”the to enthusiasm energyand of lot a bring “They – to usetheirprovisional year to inlove“fall withtheleague”. aboutthe chance todetailsofmembership and how learn summer meetingswere heldproviding ladythe eachnew well asrequirements for theprovisional year. Two optional Retreat whichwasagreat abouttheleagueas timeto learn The Provisionals heldtheirannualProvisional of Monroe. abouttheJuniorLeague andlearning memories making Provisionals have beenvery “active” thissummerandfall withLeague Life First Experience Plan 26 Committee Co-Chairs Provisional Cydni Hanks&AmandaMartin, Submitted by: year specialfor members! new moving theProvisional withthethiscommittee andkeeping whoare Mowad reallythings andSherri keeping Ryan, Erica each other. Special thanks to Dana Tarver, Sarah Raymond, relaxed environment to form andbondswith friendships Provisionalsnew achanceto gatherandsocialize inamore to isalso in theworks A happy provide hourgathering the meetings eachmonthandotherProvisional requirements. but are alsobusywithattendance atProvisional andGeneral projects,not onlywithevents suchastheretreat andservice Provisionalsto general membership soon. are busy keeping upcoming Provisional Project. The projectwillbeannounced withProvisionalsmembers are working to prepare for the Currently thecommittee event andeachProvisional lady. tirelessly to ensure thingsrunsmoothlyfor each Provisional Cydni &Amanda say theircommittee memberswork love withtheJunior League are. asthey Provisionalwant eachnew to exittheirProvisional year asin Kids in the Kitchen e e t t i m m o c Teams with TLC to Reward Students
Kids in the Kitchen (KITK) educates children on healthy eating by s w e n teaching them how to prepare health and easy snacks, read nutrition labels, and talking with them about the importance of exercise. There are some changes this year for KITK. Starting this fall, Kids in the Kitchen is teaming up with Tools and Literacy for Children. KITK is helping TLC with the accelerated reader program by providing healthy snacks to the students who get all of their accelerated reader points. KITK recently participated in the Cypress Point Elementary “health night” and also had a table at TLC’s Back to School Bash where committee members passed out snacks and recipe cards to the students. KITK also had an invitation to Lenwil Elementary’s “Meet the Teacher” night. “I love that we promote health in our kids by teaching them there are healthier options than to just choose junk food,” says committee chair Kathryn Bagley. “Kids in the Kitchen is a great committee. We give out healthy snacks, and parents get recipes to cook with their kids. Hopefully, they take these recipes home and make some healthy memories,” says Sarah Cox, KITK committee member. Submitted by: Kathryn Bagley, Kids in the Kitchen Committee Chair
our undertakings, it not only helps us raise money for the Spreading the projects we work on and the grants we give out, but it also encourages women to inquire about joining the League. It is JLM Word only through new Provisional classes that consistently work The mission of the Junior League is to improve the community hard and have enough members, that our part of the League through effective action and leadership of trained women can continue to grow and prosper. volunteers. It is the Marketing and Public Relations’ job, Marketing and PR continually looks for new ways in which chaired this year by Amy Lange, to make the community we can expose the community to our efforts. This year we aware of the diverse volunteer projects the Junior League hope to sign up for the convention, Welcome to Ouachita undertakes in order to create a better community. The Parish, where the city invites both new and old families to committee does this by sending in pictures from events to come see what is happening in our city. We are also working local newspapers such as the News Star and the Ouachita on getting time on local TV morning shows to talk about the
Citizen, writing up monthly summaries on what they did impact volunteerism can have on the place you live. This CHARLONS — fall 2013 and/or what they are going to do. We also send information may not only focus on the organizations we help, but other to the Delta Style and Bayou Life magazines and make volunteer groups as well. appearances on the television and radio morning shows to Marketing and PR is a great way to stay in touch with what is discuss upcoming fundraisers such as Charity Shopping Pass going on in the League and to get to consistently work with or Spring Market. Through these avenues, Marketing and the people in the community around us. PR can really show our city how talented the women of the Junior League are and how they serve our city. Submitted by: Amy Lange, Marketing and Public Relations Chair Marketing and PR plays such an important role in the Junior League’s system. By ensuring the community is aware of
27 CHARLONS — fall 2013 i n e v e r y i s s u e / c o m m i t t e e n e w s 16 14 12 DECEMBER 28 26 24 21 12 11 10 NOVEMBER OCTOBER Winter Birthdays 2013-2014 Fall & 31 22 18 15 12 10 8 7 5 4 1 8 6 5 3 1 3 1 Sarah Raymond Weston Courtney Bryan Jamie Wyatt Jessica Amanda Martin Sarah Morse Beatty Robin Dana Mullins Crigler Kathryn Mary WestNicole Flowers Katherine Arabella Moore Simpson Denise Wahlder Ilana Mattingly Jan Bursey Terri Wells Coby Kiper Melissa Hughes Leslie Nelson Krista Milner Arie Raymond Kathryn Laura Nickelson Leigh Liles Amy Cheveallier GreenMandy Elahi Christina Coon Cherry Tonya Smith Faith Gremillion Samantha Meek FergusonCarrie Buckles Carmen Wright 15 FEBRUARY 29 26 25 23 18 16 15 14 10 JANUARY 30 23 19 18 16 26 25 21 19 27 17 9 6 3 1 9 8 3 2 1 Melinda Rigsby Melinda Jennifer Guerriero Meredith Beene FlemisterBecky Andree’ Eddleman Price Jennifer ValentineChristy Celia Webb Laudenheimer Kelsey Jennifer Lord VerdickMissi Paxton Lillian Sharp Megan Williams Mallory Watson Kara Kilpatrick Ashley Winder Richardra Stephenson Dana Bagley Kathryn Johnson Susan ToniWilson-Baggiano Emily Willard Bryant Stephanie Laura Gibbs Holly Perry Balsamo Katy Cyndi Hanks Shelva Thomas White Christy Kight Kristina Andrea Wright Pankey Jenny Metts Jessica Lawrence Emily Martin Emily Lisa Ellington Marshall LaWanda 28 blog: http://pblamar.tripod.com/lamarstyle_blog web: http://lamarstyle.net email: [email protected] cell: 318.614.4545 PO Box7120Monroe,LA71211 Photography byLamar Lamar Smith Lamar Keep smiling, [email protected]. official JuniorLeaguephotographerat318-614-4545,or pleasecontactLamar,or prints.Formoreinformation, our creation tobeusedtowardsthe portrait $100 giftcertificate your choice,withorwithoutmom/dad.You willreceive to sixmonthsoldcanbephotographedatalocationof Babiesup to schedule your “BabiesinBloom”portraits. Please contactLamarSmithwith“PhotographybyLamar” Attention JLM Actives and Provisionals with new babies: c o m m i t t e e n e w s CHARLONS — fall 2013 Becky Bonin Flemister Flemister) Tyler (Mrs. Earned 9 months. Child: Madelyn Kay, ULM and from degree her Bachelor’s ULL. She from degree her Master’s as a Speech Language is employed Pathologist. Earned her degree in Neuroscience/ Earned her degree University and Tulane Business from the Health from her Masters of Public She is self University South of Florida. employed. Sarah Katherine Ewing Ole MissAttended self and is currently coach for and is a volunteer employed drill team. Junior High’s Lee Chelsie Brooke Ferracci in Graphic Design Earned degree her - Wood of ULM. She is the owner from Revival. Furniture stock Allison Margaret BryantAllison Margaret Earl (Mrs. Earl) Brandon Earned her Masters of Communications She is co-owner ULM. from and American Auto Manager for Accounts Rental. Aleta Jane Horton Eley (Mrs. Eley) Aaron age 9, 10, Amity, age Gus, Children: 7 and Molly age Kate,Emmalyne, age 5. She earned from her BS in Biology in Jackson, MS. She is College Belhaven Agent. as a Real Estate employed Simran Kaur Dhaliwal Emaus (Mrs. Brad Emaus) 29 Mary Kathryn Schneider Crigler Crigler)(Mrs. David age 3 and Julia, age 1. Camille, Children: Earned Rouge. DDS at LSU in Baton her as a Dentist. She is employed Durham Swillie Stephanie (Mrs. Matt Durham) Earned her 4 months. Child: Luke, and ULM Masters of Science from as a Speech Language is employed Pathologist. Emily Little Cassis (Mrs. Daniel Joseph Cassis) the in Biology from Earned her degree University New of Orleans and studied She University. Virginia West dentistry at as a Dentist. is employed Hollyn Nicole Patterson Breen Hollyn Nicole Patterson (Mrs. Chase Breen) Earned age 2 years. Child: Carter, at ULM. in Finance her Degree Wealth at Booth She is employed Management. Mary Kathryn Barham Earned a minor her BS in Biology with in Elementary in Chemistry and MAT She is currently Tech. LA from Education at teacher as a 5th grade employed River Oaks. Stephanie Marie Stephanie Benoit Arvie (Mrs. Robert Arvie) 11. Earned age her Child: Symphanie, ULL from Administration BS in Business Development a Business and is currently Officer. 2013-2014 Provisional Class Provisional 2013-2014 Monroe of League Junior Junior League of Monroe 2013-2014 Provisional Class
Laura Michelle Shoemaker Gibbs Ashanti Marie Franklin Jones (Mrs. Bryan Gibbs) (Mrs. Frederick D. Jones) Children: Emile, age 6 and Elyssa, age Children: Sydney, age 3 and Sophie, 3. Earned her Associate of Science at age 1. Earned her Masters of Physical ULM in Occupational Therapy. She is Therapy from the University of Texas. employed as a Rehab Director She is employed as a Physical Therapist. provisionals
Aaron Beeson Jordan Jennifer Kosik Guerriero (Mrs. Peter Guerriero) Child: Liam, 8 months. Earned her BS Children: JP, age 5, Grady, age 3 and in Psychology and MA in Counseling Molly, age 3. Earned her degree in & Guidance from Louisiana Tech. She Education from LA Tech. She is a teacher is employed as a Licensed Professional at Jesus the Good Shepherd Counselor
Brittany Lea McDonald Hayes Kelsey Rogers Laudenheimer (Mrs. Carlton Alex Hayes) (Mrs. Jeffrey Laudenheimer) Child: Elizabeth, 11 months. Earned Child: Brylee, age 1. She earned her her Bachelors Degree in Finance, with degree from Louisiana Tech University. a Minor in Accounting and MBA at She is a CPA and is the Controller for ULM. She is currently employed as a Scott Equipment Co. Registered Financial Assistant.
Jennifer Rose Dartez Hugenbruch Emily Christine Lawrence (Mrs. David Hugenbruch) Earned her BA in Economics and J.D. She attended Delta Community from LSU. She is employed as an College and is currently employed as an Attorney. Emergency Department Scribe.
Leslie Ann Daron Hughes Leigh Ann Traylor Liles (Mrs. Austin Hughes) (Mrs. Bart Liles) Children: Mary Blake, age 3 and Child: Sidda Elizabeth, 6 months. Earned William, 20 months. Earned her degree her Nursing BSN at Grambling State. She in Microbiology from LSU. She is is currently employed as an RN. employed as a Child Psychiatrist.
Sylver Gray Sharp Malta Rebecca Louise Shelton Johnson (Mrs. Anthony Malta) (Mrs. Matthew Johnson) Earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Tech. She also earned her Masters of Child: Lola Kate, age 1. She is a stay-at- Arts in Counseling at ULM. Employed as a home mom and Senegence consultant. Multi-Systemic Therapist at the Center for Children and Families — fall 2013 CHARLONS
30 provisionals CHARLONS — fall 2013 Stephanie Ann Brumfield Stephanie Ryan (Mrs. Sean Ryan) ULM. She Earned BA in English from her for Coordinator Area is the Common Mall. Pecanland Child: Madison, age 9. She earned her NSU in Shreveport,MSN from LA. She is as an FNP. employed Richert Shaw Sadye (Mrs. Arthur Richert) age 2 and May McDowell, Children: Earned her 9 months. Anne, Eugene New LSU and Loyola BSN and JD from Orleans. Lindsey Simmons Roberts (Mrs. Michael Roberts) Earned Marketing her at LSU. Degree at Simmons. employed She is currently Joyce Lanell Powell Lanell Joyce +30 and has 90 Earned her BA, Masters, at her Doctorate Degree hours towards as an employed is currently ULM. She Elementary School Librarian. Priest Ann Pang Joyce (Mrs. Barry Priest) Carrie age 31 and Meers, Children: age 37. Earned her BA Brandon Priest, the from in Business Administration University of Mississippi. She is currently Leader. Technology HR as a Sr. employed Kathryn Raymond Lynn 31
Erin Rachel Niblett Earned BA in Mass her Communications at ULM and is a Media Service Associate. Sarah Catherine Thompson Nerren Thompson Sarah Catherine (Mrs. Clark Mitchell Nerren) from Earned Business degree her She is self-employed at Tech. Louisiana in Monroe. Woodstock Child: Madison, age 10. Earned her Western Bachelor of Science from Michigan University and Davenport University MI. She currently Kalamazoo, in as a C.A.S.A advocate. volunteers Jessica J. ClancyJessica J. Metts M.D.) Metts, (Mrs. Brent Amanda Lea Joseph May Amanda Lea May) (Mrs. Brent in MassEarned her Bachelors Degree LSU and her from Communications ULM. She Masters of Business from State as the Louisiana is employed UCA. for Director Earned her Masters at LSU. She is She Earned her Masters at LSU. as a speech language employed pathologist. Emily Alice Husted MartinEmily Alice Husted (Mrs. Wesley Martin) LaWanda Denise Marshall LaWanda (Mrs. Otis Marshall) 9 and Andrew, age Jordan, Children: in Social age 9. Earned her degree in is employed ULM. She from Work Mortgage Banking Chase. JP Morgan at 2013-2014 Provisional Class Provisional 2013-2014 Monroe of League Junior Junior League of Monroe 2013-2014 Provisional Class Brandee N. Walline Sandy (Mrs. David Sandy) Ilana Katrine Wahlder Child: Mason, age 3. Earned her BS in (Mrs. Lick (John) Wahlder) Chemical Engineering from Michigan Child: Alexis, age 5. Earned her Masters Technological University and her MBA in Education from ULM. She is a from University of Phoenix. Is employed Licensed Professional Counselor. as a SR. Process Engineer. provisionals
Christy Jane Sanderson White Megan Randal Smith (Mrs. Russell White) Children: Trent, age 9 and Jax, age 2. Earned her BA from ULM and is She attended ULM and is the owner of employed as an Accountant. The Fleurty Ginger.
Brittany Bourg Streetman Samantha Delores Wiggins (Mrs. Justin Streetman) Earned her Barber/Stylist license from Child: Brylon, 17 months. Earned her Louisiana Technical College. She is degree in Marketing at ULM. Assistant employed as a Branch Administrator at Director at Debbie’s School of Dance. Konecrane’s, Inc.
Kristi Angela Thomson Emily Cooper Anders Willard Child: Jordan, age 10. She earned her BA (Mrs. Jonathan Willard) in English and her MA in Teaching (English She earned her degree from LSU and is grades 6-12) from ULM. She is employed employed as a Registered Nurse. as a teacher at Richwood High School in Monroe.
Lauren DeAnne Traweek Veronica Lynn Wood
Earned her BA in Elementary Education Earned a BA in Political Science, at Louisiana Tech. She is currently a Elementary Education and a Masters in 3rd grade teacher at Sallie Humble Education Leadership. She is a teacher Elementary. at George Welch Elementary.
Samantha Combs — fall 2013 CHARLONS
32 33 CHARLONS — fall 2013 To thepointwhereIwantedtoflyaway, farandfastlikeaflockofbirds. Today IHaveDecidedtoFallinLovewithMe I felltomyknees.Butlikeacatwith9lives,gotbackupagain. That Iwantedtogiveupbutsomehowconvincedmyselfstay. Yet, Ipersistedtocutmyselfwithself-doubtandcriticalwords. I’ve gottenthroughthehardpart,justlikeIknewwould. I knockeddownmyself-esteemandinpainanguish, With bruisesalongtheway, I’dbelyingifIdidn’t say Because todayIhavedecidedtofallinlovewithme. I didn’t carewhathethought, shesaid,ortheydid. I neverknewlovingmecouldeverfeelthisgood. It isbyfarthesmartestthingyoucouldeverdo. I wasunstoppable.Dreamingtheimpossible Hoping tofinallybecomemyownbestfriend. Just likealittlekid.Butwouldn’t youknow, So takemyadviceandachanceonyou. Now whenIlookinthemirrorallthatsee, Today Ihavedecidedtofallinlovewithme. Is theloveofmylifesmilingbackwithglee. I justhadtodoit.Thisbetheday. And thisstoryendswhereitallbegins, It startedoffeasy, andfeltohsoright. I hadtogiveitashotjustsee. All ofasudden,IbecameQueen. I fell. And, boy, didIyell. What asight! 34 ~ Author Unknown ~ Author Monroe/West Monroe Saturday December 7 is the place to be! Kick Off an Event-Filled Month with a “Festival Weekend”! For more information about all the exciting events scheduled for December’s Christmas on the River, visit www.christmasontheriver.org online, or call (318) 387-5691 or 1-800-843-1872.
pm the Kiwanis Club of West Monroe 3 Christmas Parade presented by Ouachita Independent Bank
Presented By:
the Downtown Renaissance www.oibank.com Fireworks Extravaganza pm MEMBER 7 FDIC presented by Ouachita Independent Bank Junior League of Monroe, Inc. NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION 2811 Cameron Street US POSTAGE PAID MONROE, LA 71203 Monroe, Louisiana 71201 PERMIT NO. 301
esponding to the spirit of God in our lives, we reach out in reverence and compassionate service to every person through our healing ministry.
St. Francis wishes to extend a loving touch, and wish you and your loved ones a joyous Christmas and a healthy new year.