SPINNINGS MSM Winter Edition - Volume 87 Issue 2

Most women can survive breast cancer if it's found early. That is why it is so important to get mammograms every year. At CHRISTUS Health, our board certified providers offer each patient compassionate, quality care using the latest technology and treatments.

Schedule your appointment today by calling 409.410.4163

Gift of Life GRATITUDE & GIVING

This year, Gift of Life is grateful for the community’s support of our critical healthcare initiatives and services.

Through the gifts of time and financial contributions by individuals, businesses and groups, Gift of Life makes a difference in the lives of thousands of Southeast Texans.

We count our blessings with a grateful heart.

More than 1,300

More than 400 More than 275

women have been diagnosed with breast cancer through Gift of Life since its inception

men have received free Gift of Life prostate cancer and primary care screenings

More than 77

Nearly 30,000 youth and adults women have received free Gift of Life breast cancer screenings

men have been diagnosed with prostate cancer through Gift of Life since its inception

have received critical facts regarding the dangers of vaping and tobacco-use.

Letter from the Editor

You may have noticed a change in this year’s Spinnings schedule when you received your fall issue. Because Spinnings isn’t published every month we have decided to focus on seasons in order to better round out the gaps, with fall, spring, winter, and summer issues. In the interest of drawing much-deserved attention to our largest fundraisers of the year we are also featuring two special editions, one for Main Street Market and one for Dancing with the Stars. We hope that this schedule will provide better coverage of the calendar year, will allow us to better showcase and celebrate the end of our league year in the summer issue, and will offer extra attention to

Main Street Market and Dancing with the Stars—from the hard work of our members, to the events themselves, to the lasting impacts of these fundraisers. This issue serves as a promotional piece, showcasing the variety of ways that you can enhance your holidays with the help of Main Street Market and celebrating the good that your patronage does for Junior League of Beaumont and for our community. We hope that you learn new holiday tips, tricks, and traditions and that you join us at Main Street Market to kick-start your season and your Christmas shopping.

The next issue to go to print will be a winter issue, followed by a post-event

special edition for Dancing with the Stars, and then spring and summer issues to round out our year. If you have something that you would like to be included, if you have any feedback about Spinnings content, design, or print schedule, or if there is anything else that you would like us to consider, please let me know at spinnings@ juniorleaguebeaumont.org.

Thank you, Kellsey Fairchild Editor

MAIN STREET MARKET

Market Hours:

Thursday, December 1st 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Friday, December 2nd 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday, December 3rd 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Market Events:

Ladies Night – Dots for Diamonds Bingo Luncheon – Civic Center, 11am, single tickets $75 Breakfast with Santa, 9am, tickets $25/kid Purse Raffle Drawing Saturday 4:45pm Wine pull at market open on Thursday night

Purse Raffle Drawing

DETAILS

Main Street Market Committee

MSM Chair Casie Harris

MSM Co-Chair/Underwriting Christina Lokey

MSM Exhibitor Chair Kennetha Alvarez

MSM Exhibitor Co-Chair Karlee Ogden

MSM Business Manager Nadine Ona Daigle

For more details, go to: https://go.rallyup.com/msmdesignerpurseraffle2022/Campaign/Details

For specific inquiries, please contact the following:

MSM Publicity Chair Courtnie Mercer

MSM Atmosphere Chair Farren Morris

MSM Atmosphere Co-Chair Rene Ford

MSM Special Events Chair Danielle Spencer

MSM Drawing Chair Kaci Drummond

Sponsors

Underwriting Chair Cheri Dickerson Vendors ................................ Exhibitor Chair Kennetha Alvarez Payments Business Manager Nadine Ona Daigle General questions Co-Chair Christina Lokey

MSM Underwriting Chair Cheri Dickerson

MSM Committee Member Kristen Ritter

Spread Holiday Cheer

Spread holiday cheer to those around you by trying out these simple suggestions

Holiday Hacks

Tips and tricks to help save you time and stress this holiday season

Main Street Market: Ongoing Legacy

Read about how the Main Street Market event supports our community

Main Street Market

Information and details about this years holiday event

Main Street Market Sponsorship Check out this years sponsorship opportunities

Chicken Tikka Masala

Warm up this winter with this quick, easy, and super yummy dish

Christmas Traditions

JLB Members share their favorite holiday traditions

Day in the Life

See what happens behind the scenes of the MSM Committee

Q & A With the MSM Committee Get inside the minds of the MSM Committee

MSM Vendor Favorites

Check out some of our favorite items that will be sold at this years’ market

Ginger Cookies

Try out this cookie recipe for your upcoming holiday events

MSM Vendors

Get a sneak peek at this years’ vendor list

Provisional Corner

Meet Provisional, Megan Pounders, and see what the rest of the team has been up to

MSM Member Spotlight

Read about how Stephanie Vanskike contributes to the Main Street Market

JLB Members Volunteering

See photos of our JLB members out in the community

Dancing with the Stars

Save the date for our upcoming Dancing with the Stars event and meet our dancers

SPINNINGS

In Recognition of Beaumont’s Historical Spindletop Oil Field.

An internal publication of the Junior League of Beaumont, Inc.

Distributed Fall, MSM Special Issue, Winter, DWTS Special Issue, Spring, and Summer EDITOR Kellsey Fairchild CO-EDITOR Margaret Victores

WRITERS

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 2022-2023 SPINNINGS Editor, Kellsey Fairchild, 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 2022-2023 SPINNINGS Editor, Kellsey Fairchild, 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 committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF BEAUMONT Women building better communities

2388 McFaddin | Beaumont, TX 77702 409.832.0873

SPREAD

Holiday Cheer!

Send Christmas Cards

Whether handmade or professionally done, people love receiving Christmas cards from friends, family, and others—and what better way to show off those family photos you had done or the pictures your kids took with Santa at the Main Street Market breakfast? Use code FUNDRAISEJLBEAUMONT at minted.com for 20% off, plus an additional 15% donated back to Junior League of Beaumont!

Keep the Change

When using cash, stash your small change to the side to be given to a Salvation Army bell-ringer, someone down on their luck, or a donation box. A little can go a long way!

Take Care of Others

Create homemade cards and baked goods and drop them off at hospitals, fire stations, precincts, or other social service offices. Their employees work throughout the holidays, often missing time at home with loved ones, so giving them a treat to let them know they’re being thought of is a great way to show appreciation for their work.

Organize a Drive

If you’re hosting a party this season, ask guests to bring an item for a drive of your choice, whether canned goods for the local food bank, a toy drive for Toys for Tots, or blankets and treats for an animal shelter. Kids can be tasked with rounding up books they no longer read to be donated to a daycare, elementary school, library, or an after-school program.

Share Art Projects

Create new crafts and pictures or recycle school projects by donating them to a local assisted-living or skilled-nursing facility. It’s a fun and festive way to brighten residents’ surroundings and treat them with a visit.

Remember the Homeless

As the temperatures drop, the needs of the disadvantaged can become more pressing. Whether you donate to the food bank, work a soup kitchen, or bring items to a shelter, your contribution may mean a world of difference in someone’s life and holiday. Good choices for donated items are blankets, fast food gift cards, healthy snacks, hygiene items, and the number one requested item: socks!

Cart Round Up

Whenever you go to the grocery store this season (and it probably feels like you’re going all the time), make it a point to bring a cart in from the parking lot. With kids in tow, you may round up more than you need. This may save someone from a dented car, could offer someone a cart when there were none at the entrance, or keep someone from a long walk to retrieve one of their own.

Lend a Helping Hand

Hold open a door for a parent with a stroller, help someone carry groceries to their car, or assist an elderly person on a slippery sidewalk.

Learn About Other Cultures

Holiday traditions vary across cultures and families so take the time to learn something new, whether about your own religion’s variations on celebrating or taking the time to learn about a new religion entirely. Christians, Buddhists, Jews, Muslims, and other religions all celebrate important dates and remembrances during the month of December, so there’s ample opportunity to be introduced to new and different customs.

Be Charitable

There are endless giving opportunities during the holiday season so you can choose what suits you best. Volunteer time, offer goods, or make a financial contribution to an organization whose mission you want to support.

JLB members

volunteer at Sleep in Heavenly Peace

a lwaYS H ave an a ppetize R O n H and

Load up on dip mixes from All of Us Soup and Dip and All Star Dips for easy-to-make crowd pleasers.

Maintain a G ift C l OS et

Make sure that you’re never emptyhanded when the time comes! A good gift closet includes items at a variety of price points and formalities to ensure that you’re set for any event.

tH an K t H e HOS t(e SS )

Find time-tested favorites at Houston Candle Company and our Wine Pull or find something unexpected and offbeat at The Mustard Seed House, Lux and Lavender, or from another of our fantastic vendors!

S C ale YOUR t R ee de COR ati O n S app RO p R iatelY

HO lidaY H a CKS

Last-minute invite to a party? Forgot someone on your list? These tips and tricks will save you some stress during the busy social season.

CandY C ane S M a K e GR eat pla C e C a R d HO lde RS

This quick and easy craft can elevate your next dinner party!

Ma K e C lean- U p a b R eeze

Pick up disposable table covers and lay them down before starting your gingerbread house, glitter crafts, or other messy projects. Extra cleanup tip: a slice of bread easily cleans broken glass, including shards.

wR ap GR een tin S el a ROU nd t H e C ente R O f YOUR t R ee

Your tree will look fuller and fluffier, and the tinsel can help reflect your lights.

THE ONGOING LEGACY OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF BEAUMONT:

Main Street Market is the Junior League of Beaumont’s largest fundraiser of the year, bringing the Southeast Texas community together for a three-day extravaganza of shopping, fun, and fundraising and playing a pivotal role in furthering the League’s work in the community. Last year, the Junior League of Beaumont was able to donate over $60,000 to local nonprofits, community projects, and scholarships due in large part to the success of Main Street Market. In keeping with our mission to bring attention to the needs of our community, we want to draw special attention to two booths at this year’s market with whom we’ve partnered in order to support and bolster their efforts: Harvest House and the Beaumont Farmers Market.

Main Street Market

Harvest House is a Christ-based 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization in Beaumont, Texas founded to provide education and long-term care as a place of refuge and safety for victims of sex trafficking. As part of the Junior League of Beaumont’s ABOLISH project we granted an initial $50,000 investment in Harvest House, to be used to upgrade the infrastructure and security of their facility as well as for ongoing updates and maintenance; we set aside an annual programming budget of $2,000-5,000 to assist with educational programs and events for Harvest House’s clients; and we support Harvest House in their mission, promoting awareness, advocacy, and action for victims of human trafficking. We offer mentorship and volunteer opportunities for committee and other League members, as well. Our objective

is to assist with providing victims and survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking with safe and nurturing emergency services, assessment, 24/7 support, and linkages with community programs, with an overall goal of family reunification and alternative positive living arrangements. Stop by their booth to learn more about the organization and to support their efforts, whether through volunteer work or a financial contribution.

The goals of the Beaumont Farmers Market are to offer an open-air market offering fresh, regionally-grown produce and other food products; to educate consumers about local farming, seasonality of production, and sustainable growing practices; to assist new businesses that sell food and food-related products and/or who make use of locally-grown ingredients to gain entry into the local market; and to foster stewardship of land and community through public markets. The Beaumont Farmers Market is this year’s partner organization under Junior League of Beaumont’s The ONE. Through this partnership we have contributed $5,000 to the Beaumont Farmers Market for ongoing costs including advertising and outreach and we have a dedicated committee of volunteers manning the market every Saturday. Swing by their booth to learn some more about their market and to support their mission–gifts are tax-deductible through their 501(c) (3) status.

Our contributions to the community would not be possible without your support of our League and its fundraisers, so we have you to thank for the ability to continue our work. Let’s continue the good cheer this year! Let Main Street Market be your one-stop shop for clothing, gourmet foods, children’s items, jewelry, and more! You’ll find unique merchandise from over 60 carefully selected vendors from Texas and beyond. Listen to live music and other entertainment, participate in our bingo luncheon, and enjoy a visit from a special someone. Best of all, you’re helping to give back while doing it!

MAIN STREET MARKET

Junior League of Beaumont is gearing up for the finest shopping event of the season. Main Street Market is one of our leading fundraisers for our community and we cannot wait to share this experience with you! Join us December 1st through the 3rd at the Beaumont Civic Center, with a jam-packed schedule including Ladies’ Night, Breakfast with Santa, and a Bingo Luncheon. The magic truly doesn’t stop there!

Main Street Market kicks off on December 1st, with doors open from 4:00-9:00pm for Ladies’ Night! Bring your girlfriends and spend some quality time shopping at more than 70 amazing vendor booths! During this special evening every $25 you spend will be entered into our Dots for Diamonds raffle. This year’s Dots for Diamonds grand prize is a pair of diamond stud earrings, graciously donated by Charles S. Nacol Jewlery Company.

Don’t let Ladies’ Night fool you, there’s plenty of fun for the Gents as well—be there at market open for this year’s Whiskey and Wine Pull! Last year the whiskey pull was emptied out in just 24 minutes and featured coveted and top-shelf bottles of Weller Antique, Blanton’s, Colonel E.H. Taylor, and Eagle Rare, among others, while the wine pull had favorites such as Caymus, Cakebread, and Rombauer wines.

December 2nd, grab your favorite bingo dauber and your lucky penny and come test your luck with JLB’s Bingo Luncheon. The luncheon will start at 11:00am at the Civic Center, with single tickets available for $75. If you’d prefer to explore table options, please contact the Main Street Market committee. The luncheon will feature amazing prizes and the opportunity to explore the market before and after, with doors open from 10:00am until 8:00pm—have some fun, started on your Christmas shopping, and support small businesses all in one go!

Saturday, December 3rd has something for littles and bigs alike! Start your market day early with Breakfast with

Santa at 9am, sponsored by Infant Swimming Resource Beaumont. Kids will be able to enjoy a cheery breakfast, tell Santa what they want for Christmas, make a fun craft, and take a professional photo with the man himself! Tickets are $25 per child. The fun doesn’t end there—Saturday is our Designer Purse Raffle at 4:45pm. You do not have to be in attendance to win but can’t win without purchasing a ticket. Tickets are on sale now through our amazing JLB members and will also be sold throughout the entire event. One $25 ticket allows for 10 entries!

This year’s designer purse raffle features two gorgeous bags from Louis Vuitton and Gucci. The Louis Vuitton Néo Néo Bucket Bag is valued at $2,030 and the Gucci Marmon Small Maclassé Shoulder Bag is valued at $1,650. Either would make an amazing addition to your closet and holiday wardrobe.

The Junior League of Beaumont loves hosting this event and we cherish seeing Main Street Market grow each year, with everyone coming together to support small businesses and further our League’s ability to provide for nonprofits and community organizations. We can’t wait to enjoy this holiday season with you in the most exciting way possible!

Market Hours:

Thursday, December 1st 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Friday, December 2nd 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday, December 3rd 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in beautiful Southeast Texas!

MAIN STREET MARKET

SPONSORSHIP

PLATINUM - $5,000

• 20 Main Street Market admission tickets (individual value $10)

• Table of 10 at the Luncheon (table valued at $1,500)

• 4 designer purse raffle tickets (each ticket is 10 entries, totaling 40 entries; individual tickets valued at $25)

• $200 in Merry Market Money

• Recognition in Spinnings (valued up to $300 per month) and on the Junior League of Beaumont - Main Street Market’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page

• Inclusion on signage throughout Main Street Market

• Acknowledgement during the Luncheon

GOLD - $2,500

• 8 Main Street Market admission tickets (individual value $10)

• 4 Luncheon tickets (individual tickets valued at $150)

• 2 designer purse raffle tickets (each ticket is 10 entries, totaling 20 entries; individual tickets valued at $25)

• $50 in Merry Market Money

• Recognition in Spinnings (valued up to $300 per month) and on the Junior League of Beaumont / Main Street Market’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page

• Inclusion on signage throughout Main Street Market

SILVER - $1,500

• 5 Main Street Market admission tickets (individual value $10)

• 2 Luncheon tickets (individual tickets valued at $150)

• Recognition in Spinnings (valued up to $300 per month) and on the Junior League of Beaumont / Main Street Market’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page

• Inclusion on signage throughout Main Street Market

BRONZE - $500

• 3 Main Street Market admission tickets (individual value $10)

• Recognition in Spinnings (valued up to $300 per month) and on the Junior League of Beaumont / Main Street Market’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page

• Inclusion on signage throughout Main Street Market

FRIENDS OF JLB - $250

• Recognition in Spinnings (valued up to $300 per month) and on the Junior League of Beaumont / Main Street Market’s website, Facebook page, and Instagram page

• Inclusion on signage throughout Main Street Market

Chicken Tikka Masala

Masala

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup plan yogurt for marinating

• 1 1/2 tbsp garam masala, plus same for marinating

• 1 tsp cumin, plus same for marinating

• 1 tsp turmeric, plus same for marinating

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, plus same for marinating

• 1 tsp salt, plus same for marinating

• 1/2 tsp cayenne, plus same for marinating

• Freshly cracked pepper

• 1 tbsp cooking oil

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger

• 1 15oz can tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 4 tbsp cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine your yogurt, spices, and diced chicken and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 10 minutes, up to overnight.

Heat your cooking oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat, then add the marinated chicken and fry until lightly browned; no need to cook through yet. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Add the onion and saute until soft (about 3 minutes), add the ginger and garlic and saute until fragrant (1 minute), and then add the garam masala, cumin, and turmeric and continue to saute (30 seconds).

Pour in your tomato sauce, paprika, and cayenne and stir to combine, then add your chicken back in and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Stir in your heavy cream until combined and heated through (1 minute).

To serve, spoon the chicken and tomato sauce over cooked rice and top with fresh cilantro and a side of naan.

Slow-Cooker Option:

Use the same ingredients but layered in the following order: chicken on bottom, then onions, spices, garlic, ginger, and tomato sauce. Cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to pull apart easily. Add the heavy cream, stir to combine, add salt and pepper to taste, and it’s ready to serve.

Recipe Tips:

• I’m partial to chicken breast, but many find that thighs yield a better, richer flavor

• This is usually served with basmati rice but brown or another preferred rice can be used

• Play around with the measurements of the spices to find your ideal mix

• For the slow-cooker option, searing the chicken in the cooking oil and spices first as in the stovetop recipe bakes in the flavor better, same with the onions

If you want all the tastiness without the work, check out Manish's Quick N Ezee Indian Food at the Beaumont Farmer’s Market for sauces, spices, and ready-made dishes!

Christmas Traditions

• Buying a Main Street Market table with the women of the family We of course love this! Get some girl time in, knock out some shopping, and support good causes with Junior League of Beaumont!

• Buying a gift for yourself first • Wrapping holiday books for the kids to open one per day until Christmas - Usborne Books will be at Main Street Market with a selection of holiday books for your choosing • Elf on the Shelf • Scratch-off tickets as stocking stuffers • A special Christmas meal (a family recipe or a traditional favorite) • New (matching) Christmas pajamas - Come check this one off your list at Main Street Market with a variety of styles and sizes across our vendor booths • Enjoying the live Nativity scene at church • Personalized everything - Small Town Vinyl and Heartfield Designs can take care of the work for you with the ability to personalize to your heart’s content! • New Christmas ornaments when traveling • Caroling with church friends • Ugly Christmas sweater parties • Social events galore! Holiday festivities, ornament exchanges, “favorite things” parties, New Years Eve, and more • Using Christmas cards as tree decorations • Making gingerbread houses with the kids

We asked our members to share some of their favorite traditions...

day in the life of...

MAIN STREET MARKET COMMITTEE

Peek behind the curtain at the hard work that goes into one of our largest fundraisers of the year

MSM Chair Casie Harris

We actually begin working on the market as soon as placements are assigned! Our first meeting is in May and we work through the summer all the way until the day market opens. As the Chair of MSM, my primary placement duty is overseeing all aspects of the market. Our committee consists of a co-chair, underwriter, special events coordinator, drawing chair, atmosphere chair and co-chair, vendor chair and co-chair, business manager, publicity chair, and a committee member. We have an amazing group of driven ladies on the committee, and they have made my job very easy this year!

Underwriting Chair Cheri Dickerson

First meeting was in May, but I really started my part in September by sending emails to past sponsors. I am working on getting the sponsorships that help us put on such a big event. Emails, phone calls, in person. In that order. October has me contacting potential new sponsors with my goal of being fully “sponsored up” by mid-November. My job should be 100% done by MSM…but that’s not how this dream team works! I imagine I’ll be Farren’s left hand woman until all the decor is in place, assisting Karlee with vendors as they arrive, profusely thanking sponsors as they show up, and making sure Casie has the perfect ratio of LaCroix and Starbucks to stay hydrated. I’ll be support staff, if you will.

Exhibitor Co-Chair Karlee Ogden

I’m responsible for getting vendors to the market! I communicate with them to get them registered, the products they’ll be selling, and making sure they have everything they need. I started corresponding with vendors in early June and will be their main point of contact until they pack up at the end of the market on Saturday!

Business Manager Nadine Ona Daigle

I’m the business manager, so I keep track of every penny that comes in and goes out. We started over the summer and will finish after the market ends and all the figures are tallied up. I was working on MSM while out on maternity leave! I have my calendar blocked off to be present for both days of set up and all three days of the market itself. I’ve been looking forward to that week since I learned about my placement! -Nadine

Special Events Chair Danielle Spencer

My duties as the Special Events Chair are securing dance and band performers for Saturday morning and afternoon, planning and hosting Breakfast with Santa, and organizing all of the photos. I started my planning in July and I’m hoping to be finished by November 15th. From then on, I’ll just be busy keeping in touch with performers, making sure everything they need is in place.

The Week of Market:

There is no such thing as a typical day during Main Street Market week! It’s truly all hands on deck. On Monday, we do a final walk through of the civic center and make any last-minute adjustments to the layout. The pods are delivered on Monday, so the decorating can begin on Tuesday morning. Tuesday and Wednesday are focused on getting the atmosphere just right, so the spirit of Christmas is felt as soon as you walk through the doors. Vendors begin arriving on Wednesday and have to be set up by 2:00pm on Thursday. The health department arrives on Thursday to make sure all food booths are within health code. All loose ends are tied up for the doors to open up at 4:00pm on Thursday. The opening hours of the market are spent keeping the shoppers and vendors happy! We have many volunteers to assign jobs to, purse tickets to sell, and special events happening during the market. At 9:00pm on Saturday night, we have a toast and celebrate the success! - Casie

Q&A

with the MSM Committee

What is your favorite part about the market?

There are so many parts that are my favorite! My very favorite part is seeing the transition from an empty space to an amazing event. It feels good to be a part of something that our community looks forward to year after year. - Casie

I love the Dots for Diamonds Ladies’ night. My best booster club gal from Sour Lake won the earrings last year. No one deserved them more and she was pleased as could be (and unwilling to sell them, also)! - Cheri

• I love seeing the community come together to support local shops for a great cause! - Karlee

• I love getting to just walk around and check out what vendors from all over have to offer. I’m also excited to see what the local choirs, dance teams, etc. will be doing this year! Nadine

• I love everything about MSM! Christmas is my favorite time of the year! - Danielle

What do you wish vendors knew?

• I wish the vendors asked questions about Merry Market Money when reading their contract. It is confusing to some, and we want things to be clear for everyone. - Casie

Vendors should know how much exposure participating in the market gets them. Not only at the market but in the weeks leading up to it. - Cheri

• I hope they know that we’re doing our best to accommodate everyone! - Nadine

What changes have you implemented or witnessed with MSM?

• Every year, MSM implements changes. Each committee works to try to make changes to improve their year. I will say that I”m super excited about our new logo and bingo luncheon! - Casie

I believe my placement is a new one. Previously, underwriting has been done by the chair and co- chair. It’s a big job. Many hands make light work. Also: Bingo for luncheon! I can’t wait! - Cheri

• Our amazing co-chair, Christina Lokey, has worked on a new logo that is so perfect! It’s very modern, fun, and timeless! - Karlee

• I haven’t been in the League or in Southeast Texas that long, but already I’ve seen the efforts to streamline processes and modernize them at the same time, e.g., setting up online purchases for attendees and online payments for vendors. Nadine What skills will this placement provide you with and how will those skills impact your career or personal life?

• This placement has given me a leadership position that has required me to truly delegate and trust that people are doing their part. With that being said, I think this placement has helped me hand over the reins to things in both my personal and professional life. - Casie

Skill…asking people for money. I’ve always been uncomfortable with it, but I figure, hey…the worst thing they can say is “no thanks!” No hard feelings. My HJ Athletic Booster Club supporters had better be ready for me next! I’m coming in bright and merry and ready to fundraise! - Cheri

• MSM involves working with numerous people (who all have their own work and personal obligations) to put together a multi-day event within a few months, which requires us all to be detail-oriented, efficient, creative, flexible, and generally on our toes•all things that I carry over to work (at Germer PLLC) and home (as a new mom)! Nadine

• Do it!!! It’s a lot of work, but you will form lifelong friendships. And you definitely won’t stress about getting your hours! - Casie

Give MSM a shot! Even if it’s not your thing. It wasn’t mine…5 years in community for this gal! It’s fun so see how the league earns all the money that goes into our wonderful community projects. - Cheri

• I would say to complete your MSM shift(s), come and browse on one•or all three!•days, feel free to ask any of the committee members any questions, and let your placement advisors know about your interest! Nadine

What advice would you give to JLB members interested in joining the MSM team?

M ain S t R eet M a RK et Vendor Favorites

Don’t show up empty-handed to your next social engagement. Hazelnuts, and nuts in general, were ancient symbols of good luck and fertility and have remained a common Christmas tradition. Because they’re characterized by three distinct parts (outer husk, shell, and inner nut), they were often interpreted as a sign of the Trinity. Continue the tradition this season with a nut trio tin from Holiday Farms—and while you’re there, pick up some of their famous divinity and fudge!

20 SPINNINGS | MSM 2022

CHRiStMaS

tOte

Carry your wine in style this season as you pop from fete to fete. It doesn’t get much cuter than these insulated wine totes, available at SassyTrendz alongside the hottest in everyday and holiday fashion.

Find this item and more online at: https://www.sassytrendzboutique.com/ collections/lit-handler/products/christ mas-lights-wine-bottle-tote

MOMMY & Me SweateRS

These coordinating sweaters are just too cute, from Luxe and Lavender—if you can’t match at Christmas, when can you?

Find this item and more online at: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj-m1qkOVS7/

SOUtH lOUiSiana GUMbO MiX

‘Tis the Seasoning! You can’t beat the taste of Louisiana Crawfish-Man’s cooking, so save yourself some precious time this winter and get a head start on a gumbo, étouffée, or jambalaya with their packaged mixes full of authentic South Louisiana flavor.

Find this item and more online at: https://www.louisianacraw fishman.com/product/gum bo-mix/

aStROS biG 3 fRaMed faCSiMile

How ‘Bout them Astros! Find the perfect memorabilia of their 2022 World Series win at RGO Sports, including signed photos, balls, and jerseys. More of a college football fan? Get ready for the offseason (National Championship even?) with a variety of items to support your favorites!

Find this item and more online at: https://www.rgosports.com/prod uct-page/astros-big-3-framed-facsimile

Ingredients:

• 2 + ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• ½ tablespoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup butter, softened to room temperature

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 large egg

• ¼ cup molasses

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sugar Coating:

• ¼ cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Add the egg and beat until incorporated. Then add molasses and vanilla and beat on low until combined. Gradually add in the dry ingredients and beat until just combined.

Cover the bowl with plastic cling wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, up to overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a half sheet baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Transfer coarse sugar into a small bowl. Then, use a cookie scoop to scoop out 1-2 tablespoons of cookie dough at a time, and roll into 1-inch ball. Roll the cookie ball into the bowl of sugar to fully coat it. Place on the lined baking tray, spaced 2-3 inches apart. You will have to bake in multiple batches, or freeze some uncoated cookie balls to bake later.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool down completely. If the cookies have a dome to them and are not very crinkled (this can happen if your cookie dough has been chilled for too long), just before transferring to a wire cooling rack, gently press down on them using the back of a spatula so flatten them out a bit and create the crinkle effect. Then, transfer to the cooling rack to cool down completely.

RECIPE SOURCE: https://www.aheadofthyme.com/soft-and-chewy-ginger-cookies/

PHOTO SOURCE: https://www.savorynothings.com/soft-molasses-cookies/

Soft chewy ginger cookies packed with ginger, molasses, and cinnamon spice is the most warm and cozy cookie ever. These holiday cookies stay soft for days.

Kracker Jack Kids

Dress your kids to the nines this holiday season with the help of Kracker Jack Kids! They offer adorable matching and coordinating sets for infants and children as well as a variety of fun accessories.

Houston Candle Company

Who doesn’t love a handcrafted candle? Whether as a gift or for personal use at home you can never have too many candles! Houston Candle Company offers a variety of amazing scents in assorted styles and shapes—cowboy boots, pumpkins, and crosses to name a few. They even feature men’s fragrances! Stop by their booth to find your favorite.

The Mustard Seed House

Looking for the perfect decoration, stocking stuffers, white elephant gift, or something for yourself? The Mustard Seed has you covered with tote bags, serving dishes, jewelry, and much more!

All Star Dips

Using only top of the line ingredients, All Stars Dips features easy-to-make yet delicious dips. Their dips contain all-natural herbs and spices with no preservatives, MSG, or gluten and need only to be mixed with 1 cup of sour cream and 1 cup of mayonnaise to create a dangerously delicious party dip that will leave your guests begging for more!

MAIN STREET MARKETVendors

Holiday Farms

Located deep in the Heart of Texas, Holiday Farms is a family-owned and operated business since 1987 specializing in divinity, fudge, pralines, brittle and other delectable goodies for folks with discriminating tastes.

Shader Productions

Looking for that perfect piece to complete your look? Shader Productions features high-end fashion jewelry and has the season’s must-have chic pieces as well as timeless classics.

Louisiana Crawfish Man

It doesn’t get more authentic than Louisiana Crawfish-Man’s mixes, whether you choose gravy, gumbo, etouffé, or jambalaya—or pick up an autographed gift box that contains them all! You can also purchase cookbooks featuring renowned recipes from the Real Cajun School of Cooking and from Lafayette and New Iberia favorites.

Lavender Falls

A lavender farm based out of Vernon Parish, Louisiana, Lavender Falls specializes in natural, plant-based, and safe beauty and wellness products. Their goal is to create handcrafted products that are as healthy as they are effective and as natural as they are powerful, prioritizing certified-organic and wildharvested ingredients with no fillers or harsh chemicals. Their best-sellers include lavender body butter, aloe vanilla face moisturizer, lavender pillow mist and linen spray, and their organic insect repellent, Skeeter Guard.

All of Us Soup and Dip

Veggie dips, soups, cobblers, and more! Featuring old plantation soups, bread, cheese balls, and delicious dip mixes, All of Us has a variety of delectable items to choose from. Their goal is for your family to leave the dinner table with two things: a full belly and a big smile—and their happy customers can attest to their success.

Cigar Club

Looking for a stocking stuffer or a prized stogie? The Cigar Shop offers an extensive inventory of cigars and can help you find the perfect choice for your flavor profile. They also have cutters, lighters, humidors, tamper kits, cigar sliders, ashtrays, and many more accessories.

Fatima Designs

With a huge selection of fashion clothing and accessories you’re sure to find what you need at Fatima’s!

Freedom Firearms and Defense

Beaumont’s newest indoor shooting range offers instruction and training for beginners to experts and features activities for the whole family. Stop by their booth to explore membership options for you and your family!

Luxe and Lavender

This boutique brings style and sarcasm together in one cute little package, offering snarky shirts, jeans that fit, and everything in between.

Get a sneak peek at some of the vendors that will be at this years event!

RGO Sports

RGO Sports provides you the best in sports memorabilia products, such as autographs, unsigned products, and championship rings from your favorite teams or athletes. Find jerseys, framed photos and prints, and replica stadiums covering a variety of sports and competition levels.

Paparazzi

Find the must-have piece for the season with these fun earrings, necklaces, rings, and more–always just $5 apiece.

City of Beaumont

Show off your hometown pride with Beaumont stickers, postcards, tees, and more from the City of Beaumont van!

Small Town Vinyl

Need a personalized gift? Small Town Vinyl offers a variety of blank merchandise ready to be customized to your liking, from tees to koozies to cups and tumblers of all kinds. They offer all types of vinyl, including heat transfer, adhesive, printed, glitter, striplock, and metallic and can work with you to create the perfect piece! They also offer boutique clothing for women and children if you don’t have time for customized wear.

SassyTrendz

A local favorite, SassyTrendz is your one-stop shop for clothing, handbags, and accessories! Find a New Years Eve dress, cozy Christmas sweaters, and perfect date night looks, and check out their great selection of menswear!

Gingham & Pearls

A women’s lifestyle brand with a coastal influence, Gingham & Pearls embraces the sophisticated comfort and tradition of the East Coast, complemented with the etiquette and charm of the South. Inspired by family, friends, and dayto-day coastal living, this shop features apparel, accessories, and home décor.

Local Loves

5Under Golf Center

Cross the golfer of the family off the shopping list at this booth with gear to fit a variety of levels of play, look into golfing lessons for you or a loved one, or schedule some fun at their Topgolf Swing Suites and Toptracer Range.

Meet a pROviSiOnal...

pRO vi S i O nal corner

Megan is a native of Southeast Texas and has been involved in her community since high school. Megan started in the world of Emergency Medicine in 2004 in a 911 dispatch center and grew within that field for 13 years before leaving her role as Operations Supervisor and entering her next chapter, motherhood. In 2018 Megan started to miss the serving heart she had grown in EMS and found herself looking for new ways to serve our area. After learning that drowning was the leading cause of accidental death in children under 4 years of age Megan knew her calling was to open Infant Swimming Resource Beaumont, a survival swim school that teaches children from 6 months to 6 years old to self-rescue in the event they find themselves in water without an adult. Since operations began in 2019, Megan has taught over 300 children the life saving skills of self rescue. With both of her children entering school age, she once again asked herself how she could help the community of Southeast Texas and she found herself joining the Junior League of Beaumont. She is excited to connect with like minded women looking to grow and serve the community.

Megan Pounders

Placement Meetings

We loved getting the chance to get to know our provisionals better during October’s smallgroup advisor meetings!

MSM MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Stephanie Vanskike

How have you been involved with Main Street Market during your time with the League?

I was first involved in Main Street Market as an Atmosphere Co-Chair then as the MSM chair. My year as Chair was quite unique in that it was the year Hurricane Ike hit, so we were unsure if we would even have a market. Our committee really came together to create an event that the community supported in many ways. We felt it was as if it kind of served as a community Coming Out Party! We even had a Tracy Byrd Tree Lighting that kicked it off!

What is your favorite Main Street Market memory? My favorite memory is of the year I served as MSM Chair. At the time the Vendor Lounge was upstairs, so I went up to check in on it and when I did I took a moment to look down upon the entire show. Our team had worked so hard to pull it all together post Hurricane so it was such a blessing to see it come to fruition.

How has Main Street Market changed over the years?

I think it’s gone through a great transition especially post Covid. It’s always a challenge to keep events fresh and new, but our JLBers have always risen to the challenge!

What do you love most about the fundraiser?

SHOPPING! I really enjoy seeing the various vendors from our area and outside our area. I’ve also always enjoyed a great GNO! Anytime you can #SipSip with your girls, it’s a good time!

When not serving the SETX community, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Spending time with my family and cheering for my GEORGIA BULLDOGS! GO DAWGS! We love to go RVing throughout Texas and across the states. We are always looking for a quick Texas Country music adventure too!

If you could spend your holidays anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I’ve traveled a lot over the years here in the US and in many countries including Germany, but I’ve never been to Germany at Christmas. I would really like to go during the Christmas holiday.

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

I don’t think there is necessarily one thing I cherish the most. I LOVE CHRISTMAS! All things CHRISTMAS! I love to decorate for CHRISTMAS; I love to cook for my family; I love to buy special gifts; I love to have all our family with me! I just LOVE CHRISTMAS!

JLB MEMBERS Volunteering

JLB at the Catch My Thrift Ribbon Cutting

CASA Golf Tournament

JLB purchased BCM’s new tent, spotted at Lamar Homecoming

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Transitioning Youth planned and hosted a Halloween event

Farmers Market

Ghosts and Goblins at the Botanical Garden

Megan Pounders and Brandi

Verdine Dogtober Fest

Denise Neef-Fiore The Food Bank

Arc of Beaumont Halloween Dance

upcoming HAPPENINGS

JLB meetings

Board Meetings

6:00PM @ JLB Headquarters

January 10th February 7th March 21st April 11th May 2nd

General Meetings

6:00PM Social; 6:30PM Meeting

Thursday, December 1st @ MSM; 6:00 PM Meeting

Tuesday, January 17th Tuesday, February 21st “Bring a Friend” Tuesday, March 28th Placement

Tuesday, April 18th Mini Meetings

Provisional Meetings

6:00PM Social; 6:30PM Meeting

Tuesday, November 29th @ Beaumont Civic Center

Tuesday, December 13th Christmas Dinner

Monday, January 9th Monday, February 6th Tuesday, March 7th Tuesday, April 4th

Main Street Market

December 1-3, 2022

Dancing with the Stars of Southeast Texas March 3, 2023

JLB Annual May Dinner

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Volunteer Opportunities

Every Wednesday 9:00 – 11:30 am Beaumont Children’s Museum Toddler Takeover

Month of November Harvest House Donation Drive

Saturday, November 12th 8:30 -12:00 pm Sleep in Heavenly Peace Build Day

Thursday, December 8th Transitioning Youth Beaumont Community Players – Elf & BCP Tour

Saturday, December 10th 8:30 -12:00 pm Sleep in Heavenly Peace Build Day

advertisers INDEX

Apricot Lane 18 Atarah Day Spa 09 Bill Clark 23 Corburn’s 18 Christus of Southeast Texas 02 City of Beaumont 27 Coburn’s 11 Gift of Life 03 Reaud Guest House 18

newest additions

sympathies

• Sustainer Wendy Henry on the loss of her father-in-law

• Kay Outlaw Neild on the loss of her husband

• To the family of sustainer D’anne DeMoss McGown, July 30, 2022

• To the family of sustainer Beverly Barclay Collie, June 6, 2022

• Bevie Thomas on the loss of her mother

• Kathryn Fuller on the loss of her mother-in-law

• Emily Eisen Wheeler on the losses of her grandfathers

• Sustainer Marianne Laine on the loss of her father

• Sustainer Beth Rogers on the loss of her step daughter

• To the family of sustainer and past president Rosine McFaddin Wilson

• To Leslie Wilson on the loss of her mother-in-law

Emily Rios Smith welcomes Sterling Cait Smith

Whitney West Stiles welcomes Murphy Reed Stiles

Elizabeth Broussard welcomes Sadie Louise Broussard

Laura Victores Wyman welcomes Jacob Zane Wyman

Congratulations to the new Mrs. Brandi Lopez on her marriage to Jesus Lopez

Jennifer Phelan, Director of Eastex Urgent Care, winner of 2022 Start-Up Business of the Year