SPINNINGS
In
Celebration Years of Saving Lives in Southeast Texas
Our heartfelt gratitude to the many supporters and volunteers who have helped advance Gift of Life Women’s Breast Health and Cancer Prevention Program.
AMANDA BURKHALTER
“ I am a single mom of three children, on e of whom is a childhood cancer survivor. Without Gift of Life, I never would have known about my aggressive, latestage breast cancer. I am beyond grateful, and I plan to pay it forward! ”
“ By the grace of God, Gift of Life entered my life for I could not afford insurance. Gift of Life paid for my mammograms, diagnostic tests and biopsies. I am facing my cancer journey for my husband and children. Gift of Life saved my life!”
“ We couldn’t afford insurance or pay f or a mammogram and Gift of Life made sure I had all the needed tests that found my cancer. Without Gift of Life, I would not be here today with my husband and three children. ”
“Every year, I have a Gift of Life mammogram, and this time the diagnostic tests detected breast cancer. The caring staff and their tremendous support helped me throughout my medical challenges. God bless Gift of Life”
ANITA DOWERS
ELIVA MEJIA
TRISHA DUCOT
JLB has a new logo!
The Junior League of Beaumont wants to add to our currently used red column logo and include this new addition in our brand package. This helps our local and national network identify our commitment to Southeast Texas. This new logo was chosen because it is sleek, modern, bold, and transitional. It represents a group of women that are diverse, strong, classy, and friendly.
The JLB is proud of its affiliation with other Junior Leagues and is even more proud to be part of the Beaumont Community and to advance women’s leadership through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.
Letter from the President
Dear Team JLB and Friends,
Welcome to our Fall Edition of Spinnings Magazine, our Junior League of Beaumont publication. I am humbled and honored to be addressing you as the President of this remarkable organization of Women on a Mission! As we kick off this new Junior League season, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our members for their commitment to both our community and leadership development. It is because of strong, driven women like you that we continue to make a lasting impact in Beaumont.
Even though we’re transitioning into the fall season, here in Southeast Texas, the heat is still going strong. While we might not see the crisp, cool days that come with autumn in other places, this time of year still brings a spirit of change and renewal. It reminds us to stay adaptable and prepared, no matter the conditions, much like how we approach our service and leadership in the community. We may not see cooler weather for a while, but we are ready to execute our plans with just as much fire and determination.
One of the key pillars of success in an organization like the Junior League is teamwork. None of us can make the kind of impact we strive for alone. It’s through our collaboration – both internally and with our Community Partners, support of one another, and shared commitment to our mission that we accomplish so much. Every effort is strengthened by the diverse talents and perspectives we each bring to the table. Together, we lift each other up and make our goals a reality.
We are Women on a Mission – with a plan, prepared to execute it to a perfection. Whether it’s through our projects, fundraisers, or simply lending a helping hand, each of us is here to make a difference. It’s that sense of purpose, combined with dedication, that keeps us moving forward. Together, we are setting an example for others to follow, showing that when we come together with a shared vision, there’s nothing we cannot accomplish.
As we step into the 2024-2025 League year, I invite you to join us as a partner in our various community projects, our fundraising efforts, and get to know the women of the Junior League of Beaumont. These gals are the future leaders- and we couldn’t be prouder to have them in our ranks.
Thank you for being a part of our Junior League of Beaumont Team. Your dedication and support are what make our organization thrive. Here’s to a fantastic fall season and an even more impactful year ahead!
Warm regards,
2024-2025 President Junior League of Beaumont
2024 - 2025
board of directors
President Cheri Dickerson
President-Elect .................................................
Sarah Wells
Treasurer Nadine Ona Daigle
Treasurer-Elect
Courtney White
Communications Council Director .............. Amanda Yarbrough
Community Council Director
Membership Counci Director .......................
Planning Council Director
Corresponding Secretary ...............................
Recording Secretary
Past-President
Michelle Matheson
Allison Wright
Rebecca Tatum
Brooke Morrow
Casie Harris
Sara Norman
Cheri Dickerson
Meet the 2024 - 2025 Board
Check out the bios of the 2023-2024 leadership team
Leadership Corner
Find out what we are currently loving JLB and Lagniappe
Check out how the JLB embraces the concept of Lagniappe
Out and About
See what our members have been up to through pictures
Member Spotlight
Get to know three of our JLB members Healthy Behaviors
Check out what the Healthy Behaviors Committee has been up to this year
The Monster Mash
Try out these autumn meal and drink suggestions
Fall Recipes
Don’t let the heat of Texas trick you out of enjoying these autumn treats
Main Street Market
Check out the details for this years Main Street Market event
The 2024-2025 year is met with a new JLB Board of Directors!
Read about more about our new Board’s bios on page 6.
SPINNINGS
In Recognition of Beaumont’s Historical Spindletop Oil Field.
An internal publication of the Junior League of Beaumont, Inc.
Distributed Fall, Winter, Spring, DWTS Special Issue, and Summer
Rachel Cuevas
SUSTAINING
DESIGN/LAYOUT
Loni Lilley
SUBMISSIONS
Do you have an idea for a story?
Would you like to be a featured or guest writer?
Send ideas or articles for consideration to the 2024 - 2025 SPINNINGS Editor, Bethany Longmire, at spinnings@juniorleaguebeaumont.org. We welcome your input!
TO SUBSCRIBE
If you or someone you know is interested in receiving a hard copy of our publication, please email the 2024 - 2025 SPINNINGS Editor, Bethany Longmire, at spinnings@juniorleaguebeaumont.org to be added to the mailing list.
You will also see SPINNINGS all over town. Feel free to pick one up at your favorite boutique, hair salon, or Headquarters!
MISSION STATEMENT
The Junior League of Beaumont is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training.
Board Members
Cheri
DICKERSON
President
Originally from Idaho, Cheri Dickerson joined the Junior League of Beaumont in 2016 after moving to Southeast Texas. Eager to get involved, Cheri went straight into community projects, serving on both Transitioning Youth, where she was awarded Outstanding Community Project Member, and Healthy Behaviors, serving as co-chair and chair. Other roles include Community Council director, Main Street Market committee (underwriting chair), Nominating and Placement, and President-Elect. She is currently the President.
As a registered dietitian, Cheri has worked in dialysis, in-patient care, and mental health. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Arizona in Nutritional Sciences and a Master of Science degree from Texas Tech University. Cheri currently utilizes her degree by coaxing her kids to eat healthy foods and substitute teaching at HardinJefferson schools, including a semester of culinary arts.
Cheri and her husband, Jason, have five children; Sam (21) attends the United States Military Academy at West Point, Ava (19) attends the University of Arizona, and Jake (16), Audrey (13), and Jude (10) all attend Hardin-Jefferson. When she is not with the JLB, she can be found watching all the Hawk sports, cheering for her kids or for everyone else’s kids from the athletic booster club’s concession stand as an active member of the HJABC.
WELLS Sarah
President - Elect
Sarah Wells, born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, joined the Junior League of San Diego while her husband was stationed in California with the United States Navy. Although she cherished her time in San Diego, she found there truly is no place like home. Returning to Beaumont allowed Sarah to reconnect with the Southeast Texas community she loves.
During her thirteen active years in the Junior League, Sarah has held various roles, including contributing to the Beaumont Children’s Museum before it had walls, serving as a Provisional Mentor, participating in the CAF Grant Committee, and founding co-chair of Dancing with the Stars of Southeast Texas. Her most recent role was Community Marketing Chair, where she was honored to showcase the remarkable achievements of the Junior League of Beaumont. In 2020, she was recognized as the Junior League of Beaumont’s Active of the Year. In addition to her service to the Junior League of Beaumont, Sarah volunteers with Nutrition and Services for Seniors, the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Legion, the Sallie Curtis PTA, and Scouts BSA. She has also served on the State of Texas Forest Trail Board of Directors. Sarah has been honored with the Southeast Texas 40 Under Forty award and the Beaumont Convention and Visitor Bureau’s 2019 Service Award.
Sarah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance and History from Texas State University. She delights in celebrating special occasions through her business, Well Done by Sarah Wells. Her favorite way to end the day is sitting on the porch with her husband Seth, son Hank, and dog Gus.
Nadine
ONA DAIGLE
Treasurer & Finance Council Director
Nadine Ona Daigle was born and raised in Houston, where she received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in International Studies and English from the University of St. Thomas. After graduating from Texas Tech University with her juris doctorate in 2017, she moved to Beaumont and started working at Germer PLLC.
As a principal/attorney licensed in Texas and Louisiana, she specializes in personal injury, insurance defense, and civil litigation.
Nadine joined the Junior League of Beaumont in 2019, and since then has served as Spinnings Co-Chair and Chair, as well as Main Street Market Business Manager. Outside of the Junior League of Beaumont, Nadine also serves on the board of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, previously served on the board of the Jefferson County Young Lawyers Association, and was previously recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 Professional in Southeast Texas by the Southeast Texas Young Professional’s Organization.
In her spare time, Nadine enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and two rescue dogs, cooking, and reading.
WHITE Courtney
Treasurer-Elect & Ways & Means Chair
Courtney White is a native of Port Arthur, Texas. She joined the Junior Leage of Beaumont in 2019. Since then, has served as Abolish Co-Chair and Chair, for which she was awarded Outstanding Community Project Member. She then served on the board as Community Council Director, followed by Nominating and Placement, later as Provisional Mentor.
Courtney graduated from Lamar Institute of Technology with an Associates of Applied Science in Instrumentation Technology and Lamar University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology.
In her spare time, Courtney enjoys spending time with her daughter, and goldendoodle, cooking, volunteering, and participating in her church’s women’s ministry.
Corresponding Secretary
Brooke Morrow, a southeast Texas native with a penchant for keeping busy, has turned juggling into an art form. Whether she’s donning her cape as the Executive Director of the Reaud Guest House or transforming into the Headquarters Chair for the Junior League of Beaumont, Brooke’s mission is to make a difference – one committee at a time.
Armed with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!), she is currently tackling graduate studies at the Center for Advances in Port Management at Lamar University. Her trophy case includes a 2016 “40 Under 40” Southeast Texas Young Professional Organization Honoree award, a 2019 Pioneering Women Honoree award, and a World’s Best Mom coffee mug from her daughters, all of which she swears never gathers dust because she never stops moving.
Brooke has moonlighted on various boards and committees when she’s not orchestrating miracles at the Reaud Guest House, from the Press Club of Southeast Texas to the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. She’s double-placed as Headquarters Chair and the 24-25 Board of Directors for the Junior League of Beaumont, proving that the future is bright and busy.
In her “spare” time, Brooke volunteers for a wide range of causes, including the Symphony League of Beaumont, Neches River Festival, Gift of Life, Cardiovascular Foundation of Southeast Texas, the Houston Symphony League, Southeast Texas Food Bank, Msgr. Kelly Catholic High School, St. Anne Catholic School, CASA of Southeast Texas, and the Catholic Diocese of Beaumont.
Despite her impressive résumé, Brooke’s most incredible pride and joy are her two daughters, Fallon (16) and Gianna (14), who keep her grounded and remind her that the most crucial title she holds is Mom. Brooke smiles when asked how she manages it all and says, “Coffee and a good sense of humor.”
HARRIS Casie
Recording Secretary
Casie Harris is a native of Southeast Texas and a graduate of Lamar University. She works for Mothers Against Drunk Driving as Manager of Victim Services.
In 2018, Casie joined the Junior League of Beaumont. She spent the vast majority of her time on the Main Street Market committee where she served for five years and most recently served as a mentor on the Membership Development Committee. Outside of the Junior League of Beaumont, Casie serves on the board of the Beaumont Farmers Market and Randy Carter Foundation.
Casie enjoys spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren. She can often be found snuggling with one of her rescue dogs, reading, traveling, or hosting game night.
YARBROUGH Amanda
Communication Council Director
Amanda Yarbrough, originally from the small town of Diboll, TX, made the move to Nederland in 2012 with her family. With a degree in Community Health from Texas A&M University, she has passionately immersed herself in the non-profit world for over 25 years. For the past seven years, Amanda has proudly served as the Executive Director of the Beaumont Children’s Museum, where she has found her true calling and feels completely at home in fostering creativity and learning for children and families alike. Her dedication to enhancing community well-being and enriching the lives of young learners is a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world around her.
Amanda joined the League in 2013 to get to know more about the people in Southeast Texas and expand her connections. Since joining the league, Amanda has served in many roles across the league: New Member Mentor, Corresponding Secretary, Main Street Market committee, Placement Advisor, and her favorite Digital Cheetah (now called Member Essentials). She looks forward to serving as Communications Council Director, supporting the new system of Member Essentials, and connecting our sustainers as the Sustainer Liaison.
Along with staying busy at the Children’s Museum and with the League, Amanda serves on several community committees: Nederland ISD Education Foundation Board, BISD CTE Advisory Board, Lamar Port Arthur Graphic Design and Accounting Advisory Boards, Lemonade Day Planning Committee and volunteering in her kids’ classrooms as classroom Mom. Amanda has also been recognized by the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce as a 40 Under 40 Honoree in 2019.
Amanda and her husband, Blake, have been married for 17 years and have two very busy children, Jaxon and Linley. If she isn’t spending time helping at their schools or with another one of her committees, she can be found at the football field, rifle range, gymnastic gym or Tyrrell Park Stables with her kids. Her favorite escape is to the deer lease in the Fall where you can find her by a campfire laughing with her friends and family.
Michelle
MATHESON
Community Council Director
Michelle Matheson is a highly accomplished professional with a passion for sales and a deep commitment to community engagement. She obtained her BBA in Human Resource Management in 2014 and went on to earn her MBA in Organizational Leadership in 2016, both from Lamar University.
Currently, Michelle works at Alters Gem Jewelry as an Expert-Level Sales Professional and as the Website Liaison. She is also pursuing a Graduate Gemology degree at the Gemological Institute of America, further expanding her expertise in the field. During her years in the Junior League, Michelle has served in many roles including Healthy Behaviors Chair, Main Street Market Atmosphere Co-Chair, and Abolish Chair. Last year, she was also chosen to be a “Star” in the 8th Annual Dancing with the Stars fundraiser.
Her dedication to making a difference in her community was recognized when she received the 2021 Outstanding Community Impact Award for her efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic. She provided life-changing experiences for individuals at Girls Haven & Boys Haven, showcasing her resilience and compassion. She was also recently honored with the 2024 Innovators Award for her work in the ABOLISH committee. She launched “Brainstorm at the Border“ – a new event to further promote awareness of trafficking and creating new partnerships to go along with it. Michelle’s outstanding achievements have also been recognized by the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, who honored her as a 40 under 40 Honoree in 2023. She has also completed the Leadership Beaumont program, demonstrating her commitment to personal and professional growth.
In her leisure time, Michelle enjoys traveling and indulging in her love for art. As a collector, she appreciates the beauty and creativity that art brings into her life.
WRIGHT Allison
Membership Council Director & Nominating Chair
Allison Wright is the owner of Farmers Insurance-Allison Wright Agency. She is a graduate of Texas State University where she was a member of the Texas State University Strutters and holds a BBA in Management.
Allison joined the Junior League of Beaumont in 2019 and became an active member in 2020. During her time with the League, she has served as Service Squad Committee Member, Dancing with the Stars Co-Chair, Dancing with the Stars Chair and Nominating and Placement Co-Chair.
Giving back to her community is a huge passion for Allison. She also serves on the Foundation for Southeast Texas, Port Arthur Higher Education Foundation and is a member of the Hardin County Rotary Club.
Allison and her husband, Landon, have been married for 14 years and have two very active children. If she is not spending her weekends at the baseball field or in the gymnastics arena or volunteering elsewhere in the community, Allison loves to escape to the beach!
Rebecca
TATUM
Planning Council Director & Bylaws Chair
Originally from Nashville, TN, Rebecca Tatum made some stops in Hampton, VA and Atlanta, GA before arriving in Beaumont in 2016. Rebecca holds a bachelor’s degree in Religion and Biblical Languages from Belmont University. Later switching directions, she continued her educational journey by earning a MS in Accounting from Belmont and becoming a CPA. She has enjoyed several positions from Staff Accountant to Senior Manager at The Home Depot and currently works on the team responsible for compiling all the sales related metrics for the company.
Rebecca joined the JLB to get involved in the Beaumont community alongside other talented, strong women. Since joining Junior League, she has enjoyed various volunteer opportunities, being Business Manager for Dancing with the Stars, serving as Treasurer, and chairing Fund Development. Outside of the League, Rebecca also volunteers with numerous organizations and is a deacon at her church.
In her spare time, you will find Rebecca playing handbells, reading, traveling, doing home renovations, or working her way to Black Belt in Taekwondo. She and her husband, Dan, live in Beaumont with their son and two dogs.
NORMAN Sara
Past President
Originally from Midland, Texas, Sara Norman moved to Beaumont in 2014. After practicing law exclusively in Southeast Texas for 10 years, Sara joined the Fort Worth law firm Cantey Hanger, LLP, as a partner, to expand her ability to service clients state-wide.
Sara has held several leadership positions within JLB, including serving on the Board of Directors seven out of her ten active years. She served on the 20192020 Project Research and Development Committee that spearheaded the creation and implementation of JLB’s newest signature project, The O.N.E. Sara was honored with JLB’s Outstanding Community Impact Award in 2017 and the Innovator’s Award in 2022.
In addition to JLB, she has served on the Boards of Jefferson County Bar Association, Southeast Texas Estate Planning Council, Shorkey Center, CASA of Southeast Texas, and the Foundation for Southeast Texas. She was honored as a Southeast Texas 40 Under 40 in 2018 and was named Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year by the Jefferson County Bar Association in 2022. Sara and her husband, Paul, have been married for sixteen years, and have one daughter, Elle Elizabeth.
Welcome Back Team JLB!
Leadership
corner
Currently listening to:
“The Lazy Genius” Podcast with Kendra Adachi: recommended by Dr. Frankie!
We kicked off our first general meeting of the year at Courville’s with an inspiring theme: Teams!
“We were thrilled to welcome guest speaker Mary Young, a Beaumont native and Servant Leader with a passion for nonprofit work. She shared her valuable insights on the power of teamwork, especially in organizations like ours. Her message set an uplifting tone for the year ahead!
Each committee chair also provided a preview of the exciting plans and projects in store, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about what’s coming up.
In our community service efforts, the Service Squad generously donated much-needed sports equipment to the Special Needs Department at West Brook High School, including a portable basketball goal and basketballs.
Empowering Youth contributed a soccer goal, baseball gloves, and a basketball hoop game to the Boys and Girls Club of Hardin County. Healthy Behaviors donated soccer balls, footballs, and volleyballs to Fletcher Elementary.
Currently reading: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek “Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.”
Currently following: IG @thesoniamcdonald
Celebrating Empowerment: The Junior League of Beaumont Receives Prestigious Award
In a heartfelt ceremony held recently, the Junior League of Beaumont was honored with a prestigious award from the Better Business Bureau Professional Women’s Conference. Accepting the accolade, Cheri Dickerson, President of the League expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the privilege of standing alongside such remarkable leaders and advocates in the community.
“This award is a testament to our shared commitment to trust, ethics, and transparency in business—values that resonate deeply within the Junior League,” Cheri remarked. “We are truly humbled to be acknowledged by such a respected organization.”
At the core of the Junior League’s mission is the belief in the transformative power of women working together to create real change. The organization is dedicated to empowering women, fostering leadership skills, and driving impactful community initiatives. Cheri pointed out that this progress would not be possible without the tireless efforts of the League’s dedicated members, who consistently show up ready to make a difference.
“Our success stems from the countless hours invested in our projects, training, governance, and the communities we serve,” she explained. “This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our members, who embody our mission as ‘Women on a Mission.’”
One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the Junior League, she shared, is witnessing the rise of women into leadership roles, both within the League and the wider community. “The investment in these women pays off ten-fold, enabling us to expand our outreach and effectiveness,” she said, highlighting the impact of their Community Council initiatives.
In closing, Cheri extended our heartfelt thanks to the League’s partners and supporters. “Your encouragement and support are invaluable. Together, we are creating lasting change, and we couldn’t do it without you.”
As the Junior League of Beaumont celebrates this significant milestone, it remains committed to its mission of empowering women and enriching the community, embodying the spirit of collaboration and leadership that defines its work. JLB Active Member, Farren Morris presented on “The Hour Glass: Deeper Perspective of Productivity.” JLB Active Member, Sharita Gardner dove into “Networking Through Service: Connecting in Non-Profits.” Sustainer Anna Papa also presented!
We couldn’t wait to soak up all the inspiration!
In other wonderful news: Sustainer Meg Brown was honored with the “Woman of Integrity” award for her incredible work with the Period Pantry. Our members had the fantastic opportunity to meet with Meredith Jurica, Founder and CEO of Makeup Junkie Bags. And, we’re proud to announce that JLB received the Professional Women’s Community Impact Award!
SEPTEMBER 19, 2024:
An international day to celebrate the good in and all around us. Now more than ever, the world needs greater optimism,positivity resilience.andOptimism has been proven to positively impact our health, motivation, outcomes, and performance. This day is dedicated to finding the good in yourself, your community, and the world around you.
Paris 2024:
How Dream Work Made the Teamwork at the Olympics
As the world converged on Paris for the 2024 Olympics, it became clear that this year’s games were more than just a showcase of individual prowess and national pride. The theme resonating through the events was “Dream Work Makes the Teamwork,” emphasizing the importance of collaboration, unity, and collective ambition in achieving greatness. From synchronized performances to behind-the-scenes support systems, the Olympics illustrated how working together transformed dreams into reality.
The Power of Collective Ambition In Paris, athletes are demonstrating that In Paris, athletes demonstrated that the journey to the podium was not a solitary endeavor. The spotlight shone brightly on teamwork, revealing how synchronized effort and mutual support propelled individuals to success. One of the most striking examples of this was seen in the women’s gymnastics teams, where precision and unity were crucial. The U.S.
team, led by the indomitable Simone Biles, showed how seamless coordination and collective strength could lead to extraordinary performances. Their routines were a testament to the countless hours of practice and mutual encouragement that defined true teamwork. The Canadian women’s soccer team, reigning champions from Tokyo 2020, embodied the spirit of “Dream Work Makes the Teamwork.” Their journey to gold was marked by unwavering support and synergy on and off the field. Each player’s role, whether on the pitch or in the locker room, was integral to their collective success, proving that teamwork extended beyond physical play into every aspect of preparation and strategy.
Behind the Scenes: Unsung Heroes
The emphasis on teamwork extended beyond the athletes themselves. Coaches, trainers, and support staff played vital roles in orchestrating success. The collaborative efforts of these professionals often went unnoticed, yet their impact was profound. For instance, the meticulous planning and strategy sessions led by coaches were crucial in preparing athletes for their events. The medical and psychological support provided by teams ensured athletes were in peak condition, both physically and mentally.
In the build-up to the games, we saw how support staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring everything from nutrition and recovery to mental wellness was managed with precision. The synergy between these professionals and athletes exemplified how effective teamwork was essential for achieving Olympic dreams.
Legacy of Teamwork
The lessons learned from these games—about the power of collaboration, the importance of support systems, and the role of innovation—resonated long after the final medal was awarded. The Olympics reminded us that while individual dreams were powerful, it was the collective effort that truly turned those dreams into reality. In the end, Paris 2024 was not just about who stood on the podium; it was about how the collective spirit of teamwork made the journey possible. As we celebrated the achievements of the athletes, we also honored the collaborative efforts that brought these dreams to life. The Olympics once again proved that when we worked together, we could achieve extraordinary things—both on and off the field.
Ready, Set, Learn!
STUDENTS
• MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING: Take the time to check in with yourself daily. Notice if you are feeling overly stressed or tired and create a mindfulness routine to help bring you back to feeling centered. Journaling, yoga, or listening to music can all create a relaxing environment. Being sure to eat nourishing foods and moving your body can also help. Taking a walk, trying new recipes, or finding time to spend outdoors are all great ways to prioritize health.
• ACADEMIC CHALLENGES: We all have different strengths and weaknesses. Take time to connect with your teachers and peers and build relationships with them. Your teachers are there to help you and are more than happy to answer questions or give extra practice when you are struggling. If you don’t feel comfortable asking for help on your own, ask a friend to go with you and you can both benefit!
• EXTRACURRICULARS: Joining a club, playing a sport, or participating in other activities help you to connect with other students and mentors. Take some time to learn about the different groups at your school and choose one or two that interest you!
• COLLEGE AND CAREER PREP: Preparing for college or a career path is stressful. Take the time to talk with teachers, mentors, and family to get an idea of what different career paths have to offer. Make sure to attend college and careers fairs to get better acquainted.
PARENTS
• BALANCING WORK AND FAMILY: Balancing work and family is difficult. To add more quality time with your family, try a shared calendar of all events and activities or displaying a calendar at home in a prominent place like the kitchen. Make plans to all have dinner together without devices or homework. Busy schedules can make that difficult, so on days that are packed with activities, try starting the day together with breakfast or one-onone conversations in the car.
• PARENT INVOLVEMENT: Getting involved in your student’s school life is an important part of showing your support and building relationships. Get to know their teachers and friends and take the time to volunteer for events. We can’t do it all, but we can all do something. Volunteer for a fundraiser, chaperone a school dance, or join a committee.
• LUNCH BOX PREP: Let your child be involved in packing their lunches and picking out what they eat. This will ensure that they eat their lunch and feel that they are responsible for it as well. Adding fun flavors and colors will keep them from getting bored. If you prefer to have your child buy a hot lunch, take time to look over the menu and calendar beforehand to pick the days that they will purchase. Ask them what menu items they like the most and try to make it part of their meals at home!
• SCHOOL FASHION: Whether your child’s school has uniforms in place or not, there is always a way to express their own personal style. Check the handbook to make sure that your student isn’t out of dress code and then give them choices to really shine. Something as simple as picking out the color of their tennis shoes or a fun hair accessory can help them to feel confident. A cool backpack or even a unique pencil pouch can add a little bit of personality to their everyday styles.
TEACHERS
• ORGANIZATION: Create a system for managing paperwork, lesson plans, and student information. Use planners, calendar, and reminders to keep you organized. Sharing your organization strategy with your students is also a great way to lead by example.
• SET BOUNDARIES: Establish work-life balance to prevent burnout. Easier said than done, right? Taking the time to silence notifications after work hours or even turning your phone off is a great way to start working on a work-life balance. Communicating to students, parents, and administrators that you will only send and reply to school emails during school hours is also a healthy boundary.
• BUILD A STRONG SUPPORT NETWORK: Connect with other teachers for advice and encouragement. Having a network of support is so important, especially when you need a soundboard for ideas or just a listening ear.
By following these tips, you can create a positive and productive school year for everyone involved. Remember, a little extra effort can go a long way in creating a bright and successful learning environment.
The Beaumont Children’s Museum has a busy Fall season of activities lined up for kiddos and families!
UPCOMING EVENTS AT
MUSEUM MADNESS – KATE THE CHEMIST
@ BCM & the Civic Center
Saturday, October 19th | 9am-4pm | shows @ 11am & 2pm
This is a FREE event! Your families are welcome to attend!
Dr. Kate Biberdorf (aka Kate the Chemist) is a chemist, science entertainer, and professor at Notre Dame. Through her theatrical and hands-on approach to teaching, Dr. Biberdorf is breaking down the image of the stereotypical scientist, while reaching students who might otherwise be intimidated by science. She is the author of The Big Book of Experiments, The Awesome Book of Edible Experiments for Kids, Kate the Chemist, and It’s Elemental: The Hidden Chemistry in Everything, host of Seeking A Scientist, a podcast where science fiction meets reality. She’s been profiled in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times, and appeared on The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NBC Nightly News, The Rachael Ray Show, Star Talk with Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Late Night with Stephen Colbert.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
@ BCM
Saturday, November 2nd | 9am-4pm
Join them to celebrate and learn more about Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a joyful multi-day holiday dedicated to remembering deceased loved ones and celebrating their memory! The event will feature themed crafts & activities.
SANTA’S FIRST STOP
@ BCM
Saturday, November 30th | 9am-4pm | Santa from 10am-3pm
This is an event where guests can take photos with Santa with their own phone or with the photobooth app that is set up on a BCM iPad (at no extra charge, included in General Admission to the museum). There will be holiday-themed crafts and activities out in the museum and in the classroom.
EXTENDED HOURS: HOLIDAY MOVIE EDITION @ BCM
Friday, December 13th | 4pm-7pm (date may change)
Your families are welcome to attend!
BCM stays open late & plan activities around whatever kid-friendly movie the Jefferson Theater is showing (usually Elf or Polar Express). BCM offers hot chocolate and/or cookies. Families can come have fun at the museum before walking over to the theater.
LET’S GLOW PARTY
@ BCM
Friday, December 28th | 9am-4pm
Your families are welcome to attend!
All of the lights in the main museum area are turned off, doors are covered with trash bags “curtains”, and black lights are set up throughout. (The hallway and lobby lights remain on.) All of the experiments & activities conducted are neon/ glow- in-the-dark!
Rack & Roll
LET’S MAHJONG!
I’ve always loved the simplicity of a girls’ night that is surrounded by good friends, solid refreshments, and a game that will bring out your competitive nature. While watching Crazy Rich Asians, I saw them playing Mahjong and instantly texted a friend, saying we needed to learn how to play ASAP!
Junior League of Beaumont recently hosted our very first Mahjong Education Course taught by Mrs. Courtney Cook, a trained Oh My Mahjong educator. It was an amazing blend of actives and sustainers. There were laughs, friendly threats, and a new obsession gained by everyone. JLB will be hosting more events in the future for anyone else who would be interested in learning and getting hooked!
We are thrilled and honored to share that the Junior League of Beaumont has been named an Honoree by Girls’ Haven, Inc. for our years of dedicated volunteer and mentorship work with their incredible organization! This recognition means so much to us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting and working alongside Girls Haven.
Together, we strive to make a lasting impact and create positive change in our community. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. We look forward to many more years of collaboration and making a difference together!
AJLI Conference
May 15-18, 2024 New Orleans
In May 2024, the Junior League of Beaumont attended the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) Annual Conference in New Orleans. This event provided a platform for connecting with Junior Leagues globally, but the most impactful experience was collaborating with local Leagues along the Gulf Coast.
With over 5,000 women united in our mission, the strength of our region was evident. Three outstanding representatives from Beaumont—President Sara Norman, President-Elect Cheri Dickerson, and President-Elect Elect Sarah Wells— demonstrated their leadership skills and commitment to the Junior League mission on an international stage.
The conference allowed our leadership team to collaborate on a strategic plan that will guide our League’s future. Joining 296 Junior Leagues worldwide, we reinforced our mission to empower women and create positive change in our communities.
We are proud of Sara, Cheri, and Sarah’s dedication, which reflects a bright future for the Junior League of Beaumont. Together, we are building stronger communities, one woman at a time.
The mission of Our Nonprofits Elevated (the O.N.E.) is to collaborate with a local non-profit organization for a year, offering support as necessary to enhance and raise awareness for the non-profit in our community. Assistance provided will be tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization. This year, our focus is on Stable Spirits, located in Rose City. Stable Spirits is a 501c(3) nonprofit with a mission to promote positive mental, physical, and emotional well-being through horse-guided interactions. Their clients often require financial aid for services.
The Junior League of Beaumont granted $15,000 to facilitate driveway improvements at the facility, enhancing accessibility for disabled visitors and creating a more comfortable environment for both customers and horses. The O.N.E. committee plans to allocate funds to support Stable Spirits in organizing their annual Draw Down Fundraiser and Classic Snow Crab Night along with their infamous customer appreciation event. The proceeds from these activities, coupled with grants and donations, enable Stable Spirits to offer vital mental and physical health services to those in need, as well as care for the horses.
Lagniappe Luncheon
The 2024 Lagniappe Luncheon is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in style. Doors will open at 11:00 AM, inviting guests to explore a variety of festive vendor booths before enjoying a special food demonstration at 11:30 AM. Following the demonstration, attendees will be treated to a sumptuous four-course meal, thoughtfully paired with holiday-inspired drinks. Each guest will also receive a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home, ensuring their holiday hosting has a little something extra.
In addition to the delightful culinary experience, the event will include a Gingerbread Village silent auction and the sale of baked goods prepared by Sustainers, beautifully presented on Santa platters, and each paired with the corresponding recipe. The Lagniappe Luncheon sets the tone for a season of giving, community, and celebration while also marketing the official kickoff of the Junior League of Beaumont’s annual Main Street Market.
Event Schedule
November 8, 2024
11:30 AM
Live Action Demonstrations
12:00 PM
Four-Course Meal with Drink Pairings
Throughout the Event:
• Gingerbread Village: Vendor booths, Silent Auction, and decor for sale
• Sustainer Baked Goods Sale, with Santa Platter and recipe included
Each guest will receive a booklet filled with holiday recipes to bring a little ‘something extra’ to your own celebrations.
Expect the unexpected and enjoy the magic of the season with us!
ouT about and
Q: How has your involvement in the Junior League impacted your community involvement outside of the organization?
A: The Julie Rogers Gift of Life welcomed me as a member of the Donations Committee for this year’s Champagne and Ribs. I enjoyed meeting the donors and working with the committee.
Q: Can you share a specific project or initiative where you felt you made a substantial contribution?
A: My substantial contribution is not mine alone. I was fortunate enough to chair the Donations Committee of the provisional project. The committee’s efforts made it possible to gather enough donations to refresh multiple areas in the Jefferson County courthouse. Our entire Provisional crew worked hard to make it happen.
Q: How have you balanced your personal and professional life while being a Provisional?
A: I didn’t. I was at work or volunteering most of the time.
MEMBER spotlight Michelle Domingue
Q: What advice would you give to future Provisionals to help them succeed in the program?
A: All women are wonderful, but we are not Wonder Woman. It’s ok if we can’t do it all. Say yes when you can. Say no when you can’t. And if you need help, ask for it.
Q: What is your favorite memory from your Provisional year?
A: My favorite moments were all the times in between, such as those moments when I got to talk with the other Provisionals and League members about life, our families, our jobs, and our dreams, and also the laughter and tears. Those were my favorite.
2023 - 2024
Q: How have you taken on leadership roles within the League, and what impact have they had?
A: When I first got into JLB I kind of just sat back for a little bit, did the roles given to me, and tried to learn more about how the League worked & find my place. When the League started talking about Dancing with the Stars and voting it in as a fundraiser, I knew where I was meant to strive. I worked hard to be on the committee. I didn’t get on it right away, but I still showed up and helped. To this day Sarah Wells and I laugh because she swears I was on her committee because I was there helping so much. The next year I was on the committee as PR Chair and then blossomed from there. My love for the League grew- not just the impact that we have on our community but the ladies that take time out of their lives to help others. Communication and showing up for others helped me gain leadership experience and then everything started fitting into place. I learned more about myself and learned how to help others in JLB and in other organizations.
Q: What is something people don’t know about JLB?
A: JLB is constantly changing and growing. People don’t always realize that but after being active for 10 years I looked back on my time and wow!! The League has come so far and has made such an impact. Then go back further than 10 years, we are not just made up of “women who lunch” (even though I love a good lunch date) we are infused with women that are single, that have hard & demanding jobs, we have children with crazy schedules, we have families that we have to caregiver for… we do all this and still volunteer to make our backyard a better place. I don’t think everyone realizes that right off the bat. There is something for every woman in JLB. You want to help out- done, you want to learn something something new- done, you want to make lifelong friends/ relationships- done, you want to gain leadership that will help you personally & professionally- done, you want to challenge yourself and do things you never know you could- you came to the right place. There is a niche for everyone. This organization runs on the diversity that makes it up and helps us be so powerful in SETX!
Lauren Thieme
Q: How has your involvement in the Junior League aligned with your personal values and goals?
A: Since I was young I always knew I wanted to help people. I never knew exactly what I wanted to be when I grew up but I would always say I just want to be able to help people. JLB helped me expand my reach by helping people. As a Beaumont native, this area means so much to me and I love seeing it grow and become a better place where people want to live & raise their children. I want people to be proud of SETX. I feel like joining JLB helped me reach those goals and make connections with people I may have never met. Aligning with like minded women made our powers even stronger and made a bigger impact on our area.
Q: Can you share a specific community project or initiative that you are particularly proud of?
A: Obviously I love Dancing with the Stars and it will always have a piece of my heart but I really enjoyed being on CAF/Project Research & Development when we started talking about the O.N.E. project. We had many chats about it and tried to work through all the kinks before presenting it to the League. Going through all those steps, then presenting with big foam fingers and laughing, and seeing it through was a remarkable experience. I’m so proud of the project and so excited that I had just a tiny bit of help to get it started.
Q: What was your favorite JLB memory during this last year?
A: It is very hard to narrow it down to one. I mean obviously I’m honored and excited to receive the award of Active of the Year and how all the sudden I was up in front of everyone by myself thinking Sara Norman was still standing beside me but she was gone laughing and smiling allowing me to cherish the moment. Even though that is something I will always hold dear, I think serving with my Nominating & Placement committee and the Board was my favorite. Getting to know some of the women even better and work through things together will always stick with me… even the 6 hour long board meetings were special in their own way. I loved being able to serve next to some of the most powerful women and not only help our community but help the League. Being in JLB has been a rewarding & humbling experience and I’m so thankful for my time as an active member in the League and looking forward to my sustainer years and continuing to help
Q: How has your role as a sustainer evolved since your active membership?
A: I have been so privileged to be asked to participate in Dancing with the Stars as a Star, and being the sustaining advisor for Main Street Market and Dancing with the Stars. It’s nice when active League members feel your contribution to the League is valuable and will help with current projects.
Q: How do you mentor and support current members of the Junior League?
A: I“I’m always available to answer questions about how things were done in the past or to help find people to participate in upcoming events.
Q: Can you share a significant contribution you’ve made to the Junior League since becoming a sustainer?
A: I was a participant in Dancing with the Stars. I was the League President when we had our first event and can remember saying “I would never dance on that stage!” I think participating in the event helps with selecting future Stars. I can say I did it, and it wasn’t bad. It was truly a blast and is not nearly as scary as you think it will be. I have talked several people into participating including the 2024 Mirror Ball Winner! It was also our most successful fundraiser to date, so I’m also proud to have been on the Committee.
2023 - 2024 SUSTAINER OF THE YEAR
Diana Miles
Q: How has your involvement in the Junior League impacted your life and the lives of others?
A: I am naturally a servant at heart, so being a League member is second nature for me. It has really impacted my daughter because she attended so many events with me and has seen me volunteer through the years. When others in the community see you working a full time job outside of the home, volunteering at your child’s school, and being a member of a community organization, it gives them the confidence to know they can do it too.
Q: Looking back on your years of involvement in Junior League, what advice would you give a provisional or someone considering joining the League?
A: Enjoy your time in the League and take full advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Serve on extra committees and get to know as many people as you can. Many League members come from different walks of life and you will cross paths with people you may have never encountered before. Make every moment count and give it your all. The memories are precious and you will be able to look at things in your community and say “I was a part of that.”
Twice a year the Junior League of Beaumont offers a CAF Grant for non-profits in the community. The purpose of the CAF Grant is to respond to the short-term needs of nonprofit agencies headquartered in Southeast Texas. It is one of the many ways in which the Junior League of Beaumont gives back to the community. The fall application deadline is October 4, 2024 and the spring application deadline is February 7, 2025.
Please visit Community Assistance Fund – Junior League of Beaumont (juniorleaguebeaumont.org) or email CAF@ juniorleaguebeaumont.org for applications and additional information.
PREtEnding i’m summERing in mAinE
I spent the summer very pregnant, sitting on the couch, watching Erin French cook amazingly fresh and decadent farm to table fare at the Lost Kitchen in Freedom, Maine. The only way to snag a reservation is to send her a postcard once a year in April and win a seat via a lottery. Suffice it to say this was my second year not winning, but I did discover my new favorite Maine coffee beans, latte recipe, and cute mug to drink it in. If 44North Blonde Pearl Espresso roast is what Erin French is drinking, it’s what I’m drinking. Roasted in small batches in Deer Isle, Maine, grind the aroma from the bag is unreal – warm chocolate, spice, and a hint of orange hits your nose upon opening. I pair the coffee with a steamed almond milk (Malk or Elmhurst are my top choices, both available at Basic Foods), Moore local Wildflower Honey, and Ceylon cinnamon. I learned this recipe from my friends at Oz Café, and will never make a latte any other way! Pour it into a Juliska Country Estate mug from For Heaven’s Sake and pretend you’re sipping from the porch on a misty cool summer morning in bucolic Maine.
bAth towELs
Onto the bath towels… Serena and Lily have the softest and most plush towels I have ever touched. I initially bought them in a dusty blue for my toddler’s “big boy” room, and immediately had to have them in white for my own master bath. They are called the Sonoma Turkish Cotton bath collection, and they are worth it. I stalked the website for a sale and when the time was right, hit “buy now”!
“MONSTER”
by Margaret Victores the
M ash
FALL 2024 Edition
I am so happy to be back and writing the Mash! Since Fall in Beaumont means we are still in triple digits -- swimming, enjoying patio cocktails, and generally sweating, this Fall’s Mash still has a distinctly summer feel. It’s what I’m wearing, drinking, eating, decorating with, and of course buying for my children.
This summer I was nesting in anticipation of the arrival of our baby girl. And by nesting I mean buying items completely unrelated to being useful for a newborn baby. Did I need a new lamp? Did I need new fluffy towels for the master bath? Did I need a mohair throw for every room in the house? The answer to all those questions is YES.
I recently discovered Pooky lighting – a UK brand that has recently emerged in the US market with a genius product. Fun, quirky lampshades in a variety of sizes, prints, and fabrics such as duponi silk, linen, and paper meet mix and match bases in a variety of sizes. They even carry rechargeable cordless lamps which are a genius way to add color and spice to a kitchen island.
dECoR, dECoR, dECoR!
RAFFiA , CRoChEt, And dAtE night!
This summer I have been all about the crochet and raffia trend – for both bags and shoes. The material is durable, lightweight, and chic enough to match any outfit, whether out for a beach day or out to dinner and a show in that little black dress. The great thing about this material is that it can be widely sourced both in high-end and more affordable options. Some favorites include Loewe, Prada, Loeffer Randall, Dior, and Clare V.
Why did it take so long for me to discover things made of mohair? While I’m still not quite sure what mohair is exactly, I know that I can’t live without its light-as-air, cotton candy softness. You could search “mohair throw” and find so many options out there in every price range, but my personal favorites are from ABC Carpet and Home in NYC and Biscuit Home in Houston.
The toys span a range of ages from newborn to little kid and are beautiful to look at, substantial to the touch, and best of all, educational in value. I’ve included some of my favorites in this article, but there are so many more to explore!
Tender Leaf and Le Toy Van are two brands of Montessori-style wooden toys which I won’t hesitate to buy for any child. The toys span a range of ages from newborn to little kid, are beautiful to look at, substantial to the touch, and best of all are educational in value. I’ve included some of my favorites in this article but there are so many more to explore!
hEiRLoom toys FoR thE Kiddos
mohAiR thRows
Fall Recipes
By : Nina Victores
Focaccia Bread Art Recipe
Focaccia bread is delicious and making it into an art project is easy, fun to do with kids, and looks great on your table!
This recipe serves 24.
Ingredients:
• 16 ounces warm water (110oF) divided into two bowls
• 2 cups
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
• 7 grams active dry yeast (2 1⁄2 teaspoons)
• 2 ounces olive oil
• 1⁄4 cup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon flakey salt
• 24 ounces bread flour or all-purpose flour (5 cups spooned and leveled)
• 4 ounces olive oilf or the pan and for drizzling on top of the focaccia after rising (1⁄2 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons fresh rosemary - chopped
• Vegetables, herbs and meats for topping
Directions:
1. Combine your first cup of warm water with your yeast and sugar and mix to combine. Set it aside for about 5 minutes or until it looks foamy
2. Place the water/yeast mixture in the bowl of your stand mixer with the bread hook attached. You can also make this dough by hand with a bowl and spoon but you’ll have to use some elbow grease.
3. Add in about 1 cup of flour and mix on low until combined
4. Add in the rest of your water, the olive oil and the salt and half of your remaining flour. Mix on low until combined
5. Continue adding in your flour while mixing on low until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s still too sticky, add in a couple more Tablespoons of flour until it comes together. The dough will be very soft though 6. Keep mixing on low until your dough develops enough gluten that when you touch it, it bounces back. I took my dough out of the bowl and finished kneading it on the countertop for about 2 minutes until the dough bounced back.
7. Place your dough into a bowl with about a Tablespoon of olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size. If you’re using active dry yeast, it will take longer to proof to double. Keep an eye on it.
8. Pour enough olive oil into a 12”x17” sheet pan (or any pan of similar size) so there is a thin layer of oil covering the entire bottom of the pan. Put some olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking and then pull the focaccia dough out of the bowl. It will be very loose. Divide into two if you deisre. Lay it in the pan and begin stretching it. If it shrinks back, walk away for about 15 minutes to let the gluten relax before you stretch again. Don’t worry about getting it to the edges if you divided it in half.
10. Once you’re done stretching, cover it with plastic wrap and place it into the fridge overnight to develop flavor.
11. When you’re ready to bake your bread, take it out of the fridge and let it warm up for about 30 minutes. Dimple the surface with your oiled fingers to create some areas where the olive oil can collect.
12. Drizzle a good amount olive oil onto the top of the bread until all the dimples have a little oil in them. Sprinkle flakey salt on top.
13. After your focaccia has risen for 30 minutes, decorate the top any way you like with veggies, herbs and meats. See the blog post above for more ideas.
14. Brush all your veggies and herbs with more olive oil to prevent burning.
15. Bake in the oven at 450oF for 20-25 minutes or until the focaccia bread is nice and golden.
16. Because of the toppings, this bread is best enjoyed the day of. Refrigerate leftovers.
Re-heating the bread in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350oF will bring back that chewy texture.
https://sugargeekshow.com/wprm_print/focaccia-bread-art-recipe 1/2
E UCATION TRAINING &
The Education and Training Committee has been hard at work this year planning and highlighting education and training opportunities for all Junior League of Beaumont members. All Sustainers, Actives and Provisionals are welcome and encouraged to participate in education and training opportunities! The Education and Training Committee is also in the process of developing a training program that will be available to all League members. Stay tuned for exciting developments to come.
In addition to events planned by the JLB Education and Training Committee, JLB members are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities through the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) and the Southeast Texas Nonprofit Development Center. Many programs through the Southeast Texas Nonprofit Development Center are offered at no cost to its members, and the Junior League of Beaumont is a member organization. Last but not least, all League members have access to events planned through the Training Collaborative of Junior Leagues. The Training Collaborative of Junior Leagues is a collection of 84 Junior Leagues this year from all over the world with one goal: to provide engaging and meaningful training opportunities for our members. Our League is
excited to be a part of this group that is passionate about training. Join the “Training Collaborative of Junior Leagues” Facebook group and check the Member Essentials Calendar for its events!
To stay up to date on all Education and Training events available to our League, be sure to check the Member Essentials calendar and the 2024-2025 JLB Education and Training spreadsheet that can be found at https://bit.ly/edutraining20242025.
The Abolish Committee has assisted in providing resources and donated school supplies for the survivors of Embracing Freedom formerly known as Harvest House. Abolish is currently collecting body wash and deodorant for the month of September. These items will go in the recovery bags for child trafficking survivors. These backpacks are given to each child immediately after they are recovered. Most of these children just have the clothes on their backs so these bags are essential for them!
In addition to networking, training, and volunteering, did you know that Junior League Members receive special discounts from a variety of companies, just for being a Member?
AJLI leverages the collective purchasing power of Members to provide individual and group discounts for many products and services including rental cars, hotel stays, event and show tickets, admission to theme parks, sending flowers, and more!
Click here to log in and learn more: https://www.myajli.org/members/member-discounts.
HEALTHY behaviors
Healthy Behaviors Round-Up:
This year Healthy Behaviors will focus on our new mission of supporting community members in making healthy choices for life, promoting physical well-being, healthy eating habits, and positive mental health. We look forward to participating in events such as the Health Summit, Touch a Truck, the Harbor Foundation Butterfly Release, and assisting at Market to Hope to achieve our mission.
EMPOWRING LEADERSyouth
Empowering Youth Leaders:
Chair - Brandi Verdine
Co-Chair - Ala Abbott
Our Mission:
The Empowering Youth committee’s mission is to support foster care youth in the Southeast Texas area by providing them with educational opportunities that create a long-term impact and aid in personal development. The committee also strengthens its reach by partnering with local agencies, where our volunteers can contribute directly to building brighter futures for foster care youth.
Our Vision:
The committee’s vision is to empower all foster care youth in Southeast Texas to reach their full potential. We also strive to extend the reach of local agencies by utilizing volunteers to directly support the youth’s well-being.
Our Goals:
• To provide educational and personal development opportunities for area foster youth
• To equip the youth with the tools and life skills they need to thrive by investing in their individual success
• To strengthen community support for the foster care system by collaborating with local agencies and maximizing our volunteer impact
What can we expect from EY this year?
Empowering Youth (formerly Transitioning Youth) will be working with Texas Family Care Network (TFCN)
and other local organizations this year for the best interest of abused and neglected children in the SETX foster care system. Each month the league sponsors a life skills program for youth in the system and our committee provides support to help ease the transition out of foster care and prepare the youth for life in the world once they age out of the system. The committee Chair and CoChair have a strong vision for the year ahead and have been working nonstop to plan quality, curated events for this upcoming League year!
How can JLB members support EY? League members will have many opportunities to help out with Empowering Youth events each month! Member Essentials and the JLB Member Network group are the best ways to keep up-to-date on information about our upcoming events and how you can lend support. Watch for announcements from our committee on ways to give back, including earning hours by helping at our monthly events or donating items we may need for the kids in foster care.
Summer Projects: Back to School Drive & Summer Camp Snack Bags
The Empowering Youth committee hit the ground running for the 2024-2025 League year and started collaborating early in the summer to look for ways to continue meeting the needs of foster youth in SETX.
A priority project was collecting a variety of school supplies for young foster care students as they geared back up for a new school year. This project was organized on behalf of TFCN. The EY committee collected donations from the community through a curated “Back to School” Amazon wishlist. Brandi Verdine, the chair of EY, even debuted on the local news to spread awareness of how SETX could contribute
to this cause. The EY team also received a generous $3,250 donation from the American League Hall Post 33 for more purchases for this initiative. Along with the donation of supplies, the EY committee members hosted a letter-writing party to write words of encouragement to the students which were included in donated backpacks. All supplies were dropped off on August 1st to the TFCN office for distribution to SETX foster care students in need as they returned for the 2024-2025 school year.
Another summer project EY focused on was creating snack bags for the Sunshine room at TFCN. EY members gathered with snacks and goodies to fill the bags and be delivered to the TFCN office. These baggies were for children coming in for a visitation at the office during the summer as a way to brighten their day and bring a little cheer to their visits.
Community Council x Empowering Youth TEAM Donation:
The EY committee was delighted to contribute to the Community Council’s “team” themed sports donation campaign at the first general meeting of the JLB year. The committee was able to purchase sports equipment for local children in need including a basketball goal, arcade games, baseball gloves, and a soccer goal. These items were donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Hardin County for their after school youth program.
October
November
November 22
PROVISIONAL corner
A League of Extraordinary Women
Any woman looking for a way to make a meaningful difference in the community while also developing personally and professionally will find that in the Junior League of Beaumont. The Junior League of Beaumont’s Provisional Class offers an incredible opportunity to do just that. Members begin as Provisionals. As a Provisional, participants will become an integral part of a dynamic group of women committed to serving our community. They will have the chance to build lasting friendships, gain valuable insights into the League’s operations, and discover how their unique skills can contribute to our mission.
This year’s Provisional Class is composed of an impressive 36 women, each bringing a fresh perspective to our organization. By participating in the program, Provisionals can expect to:
• Forge strong relationships: Connect with like-minded women and create lasting friendships.
• Gain a deep understanding: Learn about the Junior League’s commitment to community service and its impact on Beaumont.
• Identify strengths: Discover where her talents can best be utilized to make a difference.
The Junior League of Beaumont is dedicated to supporting the professional and personal growth of its Provisional. Through committee involvement, educational programs, and training opportunities, you’ll have ample chances to learn, develop new skills, and expand your network.
Q&A with Stephanie Cassels, Chair of the Provisional Class
Q: Could you briefly describe the role of the provisional class within the Junior League of Beaumont?
A: The Provisional Class serves as a training ground for new members, providing them with an opportunity to learn about the League’s mission, values, and operations. It’s a chance for them to build relationships, develop leadership skills, and discover where their talents can best be utilized to serve our community.
Q: How does the Junior League of Beaumont support the professional and personal growth of its Provisionals?
A: The Junior League offers a variety of opportunities for Provisional to grow and develop, including committee involvement, educational programs, and training sessions. These experiences help them build their skills, increase their confidence, and make a meaningful impact on our community. As a Provisional they are now part of Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) ! AJLI offers a wealth of training opportunities and membership benefits as well.
Q: Can you share a favorite or memorable experience from your time as a Provisional?
A: I completed my Provisional year in Lufkin 13 years ago! I remember a night we all came together to assemble Thanksgiving Dinner baskets for families in need. It was a rewarding opportunity to give back to the community and connect with my fellow Provisionals in a fun and meaningful way.
Q: What is one thing that you hope provisionals gain from this year?
A: I hope that Provisionals gain a sense of belonging and find a meaningful placement within the League that excites them. Building lasting friendships and making a positive impact on our community are also important goals.
HAPPENINGS upcoming
Timely registration in Member Essentials is required for all meetings.
Board Meetings
6:00PM @ JLB Headquarters
Monday, October 29th
Tuesday, January 7th
Tuesday, February 11th
Tuesday, March 18th
Tuesday, April 1st
Tuesday, April 29th
Provisional Meetings
6:00PM Social; 6:30PM Meeting
Super Saturday, November 2nd
Tuesday, December 10th
Tuesday, January 7th
Tuesday, February 4th
Tuesday, March 11th
Tuesday, April 15th
General Meetings
6:00PM Social; 6:30PM Meeting
Tuesday, October 8th Advisor Meeting
Tuesday, November 12th
Thursday, December 5th @MSM at 6PM
Tuesday, January 14th
Tuesday, February 25th “Bring a Friend”
Tuesday, March 25th
Tuesday, April 8th Mini Meetings
Lagniappe Luncheon
November 8,
Main Street Market December 5 - 7, 2024
Dancing with the Stars of Southeast Texas
Friday, March 7, 2025
JLB Annual May Dinner
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Active Karley Zummo and her husband welcomed their son, Layton Zummo on June 24.
Active Ashlee Garrett and her husband welcomed their son, William Garrett on May 29.
Active Margaret Victores and her husband welcomed their daughter, Valeria Victores on September 5.
Active Stephanie Cassels and her husband welcomed their son, Carter Cassels on July 17.
Sustainer Lauren Thieme and her husband welcomed their son, Theodore “Teddy” Thieme on September 11.
Welcome our new Spinnings Designer, Loni Lilley.
Congratulations, Sustainer, Kristie Young - 2024 Leader of Industry BBB Torch Awards
Congratulations Sharita Gardner - Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, Remarkable Business Women of Beaumont Honoree.
40 Under 40 SETXYPO
JLB
sympathies
It is with sincere regret that the League offers condolences to the following families & JLB members:
• Sympathies to Jennifer Thompson for the loss of her Mother, Linda Hebert.
• Sympathies to Sustainer, Gloria Locke, Past President, for the loss of her husband Charles Locke.
• Sympathies to Patti Pipkin for the loss of her Mother, Sara Lou Pipkin.
• Sympathies to Barbara Quinn, for the loss of her husband, Robert Quinn.
Congratulations to the 40 Under 40 Honorees: Alá Marie Abbott, Bethany Longmire, Brandi Verdine, Farren Morris, Frankie LaGrone, Megan Pounders, Taylor Kay Herring, Ariana Bates, Krista Leger Hunter, Latesha Hunter
