SCHENEXUS December 2011 2011-2012 JLSS Officers President: Julie White Eklund President-Elect: Mary Catherine White Treasurer: Patty Christensen Secretary: Paula Ohlhous Committee Chairs Communications: Leesa Perazzo Community: Shannon Kelly Stephanie Russell Membership: Traci Koppenhafer Jae Tracey Ways & Means: Staci Marra Nominating: Sarah Stotz Supporting Roles Schenexus Editor: Deanna Fox Sustainer Advisors: Barbara Landon NYSPAC Delegate: Kathy Van Allen
AJLI President Delly Beekman Visits
Tri-League Meeting
The Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties (JLSS) proudly welcomed Delly Beekman, president of the Association of Junior Leagues International November 8th-9th. Mrs. Beekman spent two days meeting with League members and touring our service area. On November 8th, Mrs. Beekman met with active, provisional and sustaining members of JLSS as well as members of the Albany and Troy Leagues. The Tri-League meeting was held at Saratoga National golf course in Saratoga Springs, where Mrs. Beekman discussed AJLI initiatives and current focus. The next morning, she met with sustaining Tri-League members at a breakfast at Mallozzi’s in Schenectady. Freddie Anderson gave an enlightening speech about the life and legacy of Helen George. Barbara Landon then spoke of Kay Rozendaal’s extensive involvement in JLSS.Following breakfast, Karen Johnson gave a tour of Proctors Theatre in Schenectady and highlighted the Kay Rozendaal Room located on the second floor. Bob VanZetta, Executive Director of Family and Child Services of Schenectady was on hand to From left: Past President Deneen Palmateer, President Julie discuss the impact JLSS has had White Eklund, AJLI President Delly Beekman, Past President Denise Murphy McGraw, Secretary Paula Ohlhous, PE Mary over the years. Mrs. Beekman’s visit concluded with a tour of Catherine White, Martha Asselin (SCCC) Schenectady County Community College (SCCC), where Vice President of Student Affairs Martha Asselin presented on the Smart Scholars Early High School program collaboration with the JLSS. Denise Murphy McGraw, Past President of JLSS and Chairwoman of the SCCC Board of Trustees highlighted JLSS’s current contribution of more than $10,000 in school supplies!
Mrs. Beekman speaks with Tri-League Sustaining Members
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
A Message from our President If you think you are too small to be effective, you have never been in bed with a mosquito. ~Betty Reese As I gazed out at the overflow crowd for our Tri-League event with AJLI president Delly Beekman, I told the women there that I was reminded of snow. Luckily, it was a sunny 60 degree day when Delly arrived in our area, but only ten days earlier there was as much as two feet of snow nearby. A snowflake is small and fragile and unique, but when enough of them get together, they can have an extraordinary effect. In the same way, as a single volunteer it can be hard to see one’s impact. But if we look at what we can do with our 200 or so members, it’s eye-opening. When we think of what the approximately 600 area Leaguers accomplish, it’s energizing. And when we consider what the more than 150,000 AJLI members achieve around the world, it is transformational.
JLSS President Julie White Eklund
I was thrilled to be able to bring Delly Beekman to meet with over 100 area Leaguers over the course of two days, so they could hear first-hand the amazing things AJLI and its member Leagues are working on and she could see what we are accomplishing here. I encourage you to check out the new training and webinar options as well as the wealth of other information and resources in the member section at AJLI.org. It will connect you personally with women around the world who are, indeed, acting as catalysts for lasting community change. We are also on the verge of our very special Presidential House Tour and Holiday Gift Boutique where we will hope for no actual snowdrifts, but lots of little volunteer, visitor and shopper snowflakes to add up to one big success. Unlike many other volunteer groups, JLSS has traditionally had only one mandatory fundraiser every two years, so we hope our members and their friends and family pull out all the stops for it. It’s a lot of fun, but more importantly, it is what allows us to continue and even expand our community outreach and our member training programs. This has become even more critical with our move into Saratoga County. This year we have continued researching the community needs for both Saratoga and Schenectady Counties. Within the next month or so, we expect to announce two new Community Advisory Boards for the counties, drawn from local businesses, government organizations and non-profits. We will invite all of our members to begin brainstorming for an updated community impact focus at our January General Member Meeting. In this tough economy, we realize that the need is greater even as resources are ever harder to come by. Throughout the spring and into the future, our board and committee leaders will be working to maximize the effect of every volunteer hour and donor dollar as we carry on the important work that our League has become known for in the past 80 years. You may not feel that your few available hours or dollars make a difference. But in the end, as we all come together, they are, in fact, the only things that can. A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc.
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
JLSS Goes Apple Gleaning To Benefit Local Charities Gleaning is the act of collecting leftover crops from farmers’ fields after they have been commercially harvested or on fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. Some ancient cultures promoted gleaning as an early form of a welfare system.
From left: Front row: Jen Hansen, Susan Marlette, Jae Tracey, Patty Christensen and Patty's daughter, Katherine Back row: Amy Carhide, Molly MacElroy, Carin Cardinale, Stephanie Russell, Erika Browne, Julie White Eklund, Johanna Roche
On a chilly but spirited Saturday morning in October several JLSS members volunteered for our apple gleaning event. We gathered several different varieties of apples at Riverview Orchards in Clifton Park. 790 apples were collected and donated to the following organizations: Boys and Girls Club of Schenectady, Franklin Community Center in Saratoga Springs , the Jonesville Food Pantry in Clifton Park and SAFE Inc. of Schenectady . Thank you to all those that participated in the apple gleaning, it was a huge success!
Communications Announcements This issue is the last issue of Schenexus that will be automatically delivered via post. For those of you who have already requested your copy via post, don’t fret - you will continue to receive a hard copy of Schenexus. If at any point you would prefer to receive a hard copy, versus a digital copy sent to your email address, please call Deanna Fox at 518.527.8448 or email SchenexusEditor@gmail.com. Thank you for helping us address member preferences and save JLSS valuable resources! Please also note that JLSS is now on Twitter! For those of you on the social media site, find us @JrLeagueSS. Our League continues to be active on Facebook as well. Search for us by entering “Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties.”
A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc.
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011 Happy Birthday!
May Your
December
January
Lynn Aclander Patty Christensen Susan Hubbard Margaret Langelier Lisa Miliani Anne Phillips Amy Raimo Christianne Smith Carolyn Welch Mary Catherine White Joan Wolf
Marilyn Buhler Alison Burnside Sara Erickson Charlotte Hubbard Sally Knutson Barbara Landon Katrina Lucas Kathleen Messitt Gwen Mitsche Barbara Stratton Paula Strauss Marcia Szablewski
Wishes Come True!
Provisional Class Update The Fall 2011 Provisional Class will be assisting the local community in Schenectady and Saratoga Counties by working with Catholic Charities. The Provisional Class is organizing a donations drive for new and expectant mothers in the Catholic Charities Residence Program between January 9, 2012 and January 21, 2012. With the donations received, the Class will then host a “baby shower” on January 28, 2012 for the new and expectant mothers in the Catholic Charities Residence Program. The Class will also be offering the excess donations to new and expectant mothers in the Catholic Charities Community Program who may not be able to attend the “baby shower”. The details regarding the items needed, drop-off locations, and drop-off times to follow.
A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc.
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
Helping the Bethesda House Bethesda House is an interfaith ministry to the homeless, disabled and economically disadvantaged citizens of Schenectady County. It provides them with shelter, food and basic needs. Several residents are actually fortunate enough to have the opportunity to live right at the house, while others come in on a daily basis for a warm meal and clothing. The clothing room at the Bethesda House receives donations on a daily basis and our League volunteers devoted a Saturday morning in September to help sort through and organize clothing and bedding. Additionally, Center Director Danny provided the ladies with a tour of the entire facility to help them understand the services provide to the residents, as well as to the homeless who seek basic needs from this agency.
From Left: Christianne Smith, Patty Christensen, Danny (center Director), Tara Mahnk and Stephanie Russell
October GMM At Regional Food Bank The October GMM was held on October 8th at the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. This year was the League’s third year at the food bank and we couldn’t have had a better time. The meeting began at 10 am with a discussion on the history and workings of the food bank by Linda Comstock, Director of Major Gifts and Special Projects. The food bank has been helping to feed the poor and hungry in our communities since 1982. Last year, it donated almost 25 million pounds of food to 23 counties in New York state. The mission of the Regional Food Bank is to alleviate hunger and prevent food waste. Eighteen of us sorted almost two tons of acorn squash for delivery to various agencies in our area. Thanks to the help of sustaining members Joanne Coppola and Sarah Simpson; active members Kelly Lamp, Paula Olhous, Shannon Kelly, Traci Koppenhafer, Jae Tracey, Sabrina Hartley, Lynn Aclander, Amy Carhide, Molly MacElroy, Liz Lovejoy, and Jen Hansen; and provisional members Carin Cardinale, Miriam Carjuste, Anne King, Molly Galbo, Alaina Scavullo, and Karen Rafalik. Here are two tidbits about the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York: On October 9th, Sesame Street debuted the show “Growing Hope Against Hunger” that featured a story about a client from the Regional Food Bank. This year, the 64th running of the Troy Turkey Trot will donate its proceeds to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc.
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
JLSS Gives Thanks to Women Veterans Eight members of our League visited The Guardian House, a transitional facility for women veterans who have found it difficult reintegrating into the community, for Veteran’s Day Weekend. This is the only government funded shelter for veteran women in the state of NY and serves as a home to these women for up to two years. Patty Christensen, Kelly Lamp, Karen Rafalik, Alaina Scavullo, Carin Cardinale, Erika Browne, Susan Marlette and Stephanie Russell were the JLSS volunteers in attendance. We partnered with Fresh and Co Salon and spa who provided wash, cut, styling and manicures to the women and donated spa bags consisting of nail polishes, hair and skin products, and emergency first aid kits. One of our League women, Margaret Gorman, donated her handmade jewelry to each of the veterans, as well as several of her handbags. Additionally, the League donated bags consisting of an umbrella, a notebook, a journal, sanitary products and personal hygiene items. Finally, the members prepared a delicious meal of pasta, salad and garlic bread, and finished off with some tasty cupcakes that were enjoyed by all of the women. When we were leaving there were tears shed and hugs given as the night was a wonderful time had by all. The women currently in residence sent a lovely Thank You card to JLSS for our involvement and efforts. The Guardian House opened its doors on October 3rd and currently houses four women with a capacity for up to 12.
From left (back row): Carin Cardinale, Karen Rafalik, resident Maggie, Patty Christensen, Erika Browne, Kelly Lamp, Alaina Scavullo, Stephanie Russell, stylist Kelly, stylist Blake and stylist Jamie. (front row): resident Kathy, resident Mary, Susan Marlette and resident Del.
A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International,
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
Sustainer Highlight: Amy Van Voast Raimo What was the reason you originally decided to join the Junior League? I originally decided to join the Junior League for two reasons: 1) My lifelong childhood friend Helen Draffen invited and encouraged me to join (she was Membership Chair that year), and 2) My mother told me that “They’ll take anyone now.” Fortunately, for me, they did! Seriously, I came from a long line of Junior Leaguers, and doing more in the community – alongside of many women with whom I had grown up – sounded like it would not only be purposeful, but fun! Throughout the years, the Junior League has completed many community projects. Was there a particular project that held special meaning to you? Operation Back to School is certainly one that holds special meaning to me, because of the children we made school more meaningful for education is the key to everything in life, so the opportunity to make a different in even one child’s eduation can mean changing history. That’s a powerful motivator. Another project that I will always remember was delivering Christmas Trees to families in some of Schenectady’s neediest neighborhoods. I will never forget the joy on the faces of both children and adults we met doing that project - it’s why I, along with my son Thomas, have continuted to “adopt” kids at holiday time. It’s a joy and a privilege to do a little something for others who haven’t had the benefits of life we all have. How has your volunteer experience with the League enriched your personal life? My best friends have come to me from the Junior League – they are funny, inspiring, supportive and fabulous. Together, we have put smiles on the faces of little kids. We have lessened some of the burdens on parents who couldn’t do what they wanted to do for their families for lots of different reasons. We have changed people’s lives. It doesn’t get any better than that. How has your volunteer experience with the League strengthened your professional life? As a member of an organization that is 155,000 strong, with 292 chapters in 4 countries, the League gives its members credibility and confidence. It also gives us access to community leaders, corporate CEOs, and others who can assist us in effecting change. We may not get to where we are in our professional lives because of the League; but we will be stronger and more effective because of our League affiliation for sure. What other community organizations are you affiliated with? I have been affiliated with many organizations in a variety of volunteer capacities – the Empire State Youth Orchestra, Special Olympics New York, and the Boy Scouts to name a few. I am also a member of the fabulous Saratoga Trunkettes, a group of women who work with Natalie Sillery, owner of women’s finery retailer Saratoga Trunk, on fundraising events that benefit organizations including Ronald McDonald House Children’s Charities, Saratoga Hospital, and Haven Grief Counseling Services, to name a few.
Do you have any advice for new members are they embark on their League careers? Be involved in as much as you can, as often as you can. Seek out women like Denise Murphy McGraw, Deneen Palmateer, and Mary Catherine White to learn from. Go to a Britney Spears concert with a League member you only met once – my friend Jeanie, who is amazing and crazy and wow. Go to conferences. Go to meetings. Your experience will be what you make it. Make it count. A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International,
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011 Presidential House Tour And Holiday Boutique Is Here JLSS’ signature Presidential House Tour is slated for December 1st through December 3rd, 2011. The event begins with a Preview Party of our Presidential House Tour and Holiday Bazaar on Thursday, December 1st at the magnificent home of Mark and Terri Little, 512 Windsor Court, Niskayuna from 6:00-8:00 pm. The 2011 Presidential House Tour features the following area homes: Union College President Stephen C. Ainlay and his wife Judith welcome you to tour the President’s House on Union College’s Campus in Schenectady; Dr. Quintin B. Bullock, President of Schenectady County Community College (1150 Ruffner Road, Niskayuna); and Raymond (and Valerie) Bleser, President of Northeastern Fine Jewelry (204 Agostino Ave., Niskayuna. The homes will be open for viewing Friday, December 2nd from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm and Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. You can still volunteer to hostess at the homes. If you haven’t yet signed up yet, please contact Joanne Coppola at 518-3469019 to arrange for a time slot. We’re asking for just two to three hours of your time. On Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm, the House Tour will be complemented with our second Holiday Boutique. This fabulous Boutique filled with one-of-a-kind merchandise will be held in Robb Alley at Proctors’ on State Street. Don’t miss this unique shopping experience highlighted with a fashion show and a cooking demonstration. As if that wasn’t enough, the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation’s Holiday Open House will fill the streets with activities and music, culminating with a tree lighting ceremony.
JLSS Women Take to Orlando ODI On Friday, November 4th until Sunday the 6th of November over 400 women gathered in Orlando, Florida to attend the Fall ODI conference. Two of those 400 women were Staci Marra (Ways and Means Chair) and Stephanie Russell (Community Co-Chair) from our League who had the opportunity to attend the Fund Development and Issue Based Impact tracks. Both women are extremely excited and enthusiastic to take these ideas and trainings back to our League to carryout the strategies and initiatives of AJLI. Kristin Kobb (Albany League Community Chair), Stephanie Russell (Community Co-Chair), Brianna Wattie Olsen (Albany League Secretary), and Staci Marra (Ways and Means Chair). A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International,
SCHENEXUS JLSS ~ December 2011
Welcome New Board Members! JLSS has filled the vacant President Elect board position and instated a new Co-Chair for Ways and Means. Mary Catherine White served as Ways and Means Chair for the current League year and has been selected by the Nominating committee as President Elect for the 2011-2012 year. To assist Ms. White as she embarks on her PE journey while balancing previous responsibilities, Staci Marra was chosen as Chair of Ways and Means. About Ms. White: A member since 2010, Mary Catherine White is an honored active and experienced leader. Prior to becoming President Elect, she has previously served JLSS as Chair of Ways and Means. Ms. White is passionate about her community. In addition to JLSS, Ms. White is active in a number of other community organizations. She currently acts as an Ambassador for the Chamber of Southern Saratoga, serves as a member of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center Junior Committee and is on the Community Advisory Committee for Business at Schenectady County Community College. Ms. White graduated from Niagara University, where she earned two masters degrees. She is the Executive Director of Huntington Learning Center in Clifton Park. When not volunteering with JLSS she can be found skiing, golfing or traveling with her husband, David. About Ms. Marra: With 4 years of professional fundraising and development experience, in addition to event planning and a non-profit background, the Ways and Means position was a perfect fit for Ms. Marra. She is eager to establish sustainable fund development policies and procedures to ensure the financial success of the Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties for many years to come. Ms. Marra grew up in Clifton Park and has settled in the area with her husband, Bryan. She is currently working as Managing Director of Huntington Learning Center in Clifton Park. It was her boss, Ms. White, who introduced her to the Junior League, and ever since Ms. Marra has found JLSS to be an incredible experience, especially working with so many powerful and strong women in our community.
Remember When From The Daily Gazette: Mrs. Samuel B. Coulter, center, named “Volunteer of the Year” at the Junior League’s annual dinner held Tuesday at the Mohawk Gold Club, is flanked by Mrs. Richard Lange, left, new president and Mrs. William Piper, runner-up for the award
A member of the Association of Junior Leagues International,
P.O. Box 857 | Schenectady, NY 12301
Non-Profit Organization US Postage PAID Permit #460 Albany, NY 12205
Our Mission The Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
Dates To Remember! December 1
House Tour and Gift Boutique Preview Home of Mark and Terri Little
December 2-3 Presidential House Tour and Gift Boutique Proctors and area homes January 10
GMM, 6pm SCCC
May 4
80th Anniversary Gala Key Hall
Happy Holidays! Wishing a happy and safe holiday season to all of our dedicated members and community partners. May your holidays be filled with joy, love, celebration and rememberance of the JLSS mission.