Summer Spinnings 2024 - Volume 88 Issue 5

PASSING the of

GAVEL GROWTH

BEAUMONT

SAT., JUNE 8

Baptist Cancer Network

Julie & Ben Rogers Cancer Institute 3555 Stagg Dr. Beaumont, TX

ORANGE

SAT., JULY 13

Orange Baptist Campus Hospital Lobby 608 Strickland Dr. Orange, TX

“As a physician committed to advancing the well-being of Southeast Texans, I wholeheartedly endorse the Gift of Life’s mission of saving lives through its Men’s Health and Prostate Cancer initiatives that provide free medical services and cancer prevention outreach for underserved men.

As a prostate cancer survivor, I am honored to serve as Gift of Life’s program advocate and encourage all men to ‘get checked.” Santos Soberon, MD -

PORT ARTHUR

SAT., JUNE 22

Port Arthur Health Department 5860 9th Ave. Port Arthur, TX

KOUNTZE

SAT., JULY 27

Hardin County Health Department 1135 Redwood St. Kountze, TX

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 Members and Supporters of the Junior League of Beaumont,

As we come to the close of another remarkable year, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and joy as I welcome you to this final 2023-2024 edition of Spinnings Magazine. This year has been a testament to the power of community, the spirit of generosity, and the joy of coming together to create positive change.

Reflecting on the past twelve months, I am overwhelmed with pride and appreciation for the incredible support and dedication each of our members has shown. From successful fundraisers and impactful community projects to countless hours of volunteer work, those contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. It is their unwavering commitment that has allowed us to continue our mission and achieve so much this year.

This has been a year filled with fun, camaraderie, and meaningful accomplishments. We’ve celebrated milestones, forged new partnerships, and strengthened the bonds that unite us as members of the Junior League of Beaumont. Each event, each initiative, has been a chapter in our shared story of service and community building, and I am so proud to be a small part of it.

As my tenure as President draws to a close, I am filled with immense gratitude for the opportunity to have led this extraordinary organization. It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside such passionate, dedicated women who inspire me every day with their passion and generosity.

In this edition, you will find reflections on our achievements, heartfelt thankyous, and a glimpse into the excitement and momentum for the coming year.

As we prepare to pass the torch to our new President, Cheri Dickerson, take a moment to celebrate the incredible journey we’ve shared and look forward to the many adventures that lie ahead.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for a year of support, fun, and unwavering dedication. Your passion and commitment are the lifeblood of our organization, and it is because of you that we are able to continue making a difference.

With deepest gratitude and warmest regards,

Sara Norman President, Junior League of Beaumont

2023-2024

board of directors

President ...........................................................

President-Elect

Treasurer ..........................................................

Treasurer-Elect

Communications Council Director ..............

Community Council Director

Membership Counci Director

Planning Council Director .............................

Corresponding Secretary

Recording Secretary ........................................

Past-President

Sara Norman

Cheri Dickerson

Kate Eckhart

Nadine Daigle

Amanda Heironimus

Mallory Cross

Lauren Thieme

Anna Papa

Amanda Newmann

Kellsey Fairchild

Katie Baker

Sara Norman

Why I JLB

JLB members explore the importance of friendship and social expansion

Welcome Active Members

JLB welcomes our new Active members

Make-A-Wish

JLB members make Jenna Gordon’s dream come true by helping her start freeze-dry business

Leadership Corner

Check out what our JLB Leadership team is currently reading, following, and listening to

The MASH

Beat the summer heat by visiting these cool places in town

JLB Grant Recipients

JLB gives $106,149 to vital Southeast Texas Nonprofits

Letter from the Editor

Spinnings Editor, Bethany Longmire, reflects on this year’s journey

Leadership Beaumont

Lindsey Sorrell discussed her experience participating in Leadership Beaumont

Members Spotlight

Get to know three of our JLB members

Transitioning Youth

Check out what our Transitioning Youth committee has been up to and see what their future holds

May Dinner

Read about the award winners at this year’s May Dinner event

Board Reflection

Members of the JLB Board reflect on the many successes this year

The O.N.E. 24-25

JLB partners with Stable Spirits for the 20242025 O.N.E. project

Jewel Award Winners

Congratulations to 4 JLB members who were recognized as this year’s Jewel Award winners

Camp JLB

See what roles our members will be taking on for the 2024-2025 year

Neches River Festival

Meet the four young ladies that will be representing JLB at this year’s festival

April Mini Meetings

Check out photos from our April mini meetings

Provisional Corner

Read about the success of our Provisional projects

Berry Chantilly Cake

Bring this red white and blue recipe to your 4th of July festivities

on the cover

Current JLB President, Sara Norman, passes the gavel of growth to our new 2024-2025 JLB President, Cheri Dickerson.

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

SUBMISSIONS

Do you have an idea for a story?

Would you like to be a or guest writer?

Send ideas or articles for consideration to the 2023-2024 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 2023-2024 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.

T#WhyIJLB

Through their efforts, JLB has identified 4 primary reasons our members feel fulfilled in the League and continue to be involved:

1. Leadership Development

2. Professional Networking

MIn this fourth and final installment of our series, we will close out with a look into how our members broaden their social circle and make lasting friendships within the Junior League.

Actives, Provisionals, and Sustainers were asked about the friendships that they made through joining the JLB. The stories they shared were heartwarming stories that revolve around a main theme: JLB members show up when they are needed most. A majority of Provisionals come into JLB not knowing many members, if any at all. In fact, 31% of Junior League’s current membership do not consider Southeast Texas hometown. As such, it is the bonds that they form in their first years of the League that make them believe that Southeast Texas is “home” and that fellow JLB members are their “framily.”

Lindsay Brake stated, “The League really rallied around

3. Community Impact

4. Social Expansion

AgroupofJLBmembers

In

a world where genuine connections can be hard to come by, the Junior League of

Beaumont stands out as a beacon of friendship, support, and purpose.

[my family] when we flooded during Harvey… it was such a blessing to be on the receiving end of JLB. As a [Beaumont] transplant, I rely on my ‘framily’ more than most.” In addition, JLB members who have called Southeast Texas “home” have also made friends that became family. Lindsey Sorrell reflected, “ Michelle Matheson, Bethany Longmire, and I all met as Provisionals. Fast forward two years and I was Maid of Honor and Bethany was Matron of Honor at Michelle’s wedding. We were all like the missing puzzle pieces we needed. It’s like we’ve known each other our whole

lives.” Maegan Collins shares the same sentiment as Lindsey. She underwent an extensive neurological operation during her Provisional year and her newfound friends Lasan Gilder became her “brain” and Sharita Gardner became her “spokeswoman” for the rest of the year and will continue to be lifelong friends. Consequently, the famous “Wine Club” was a small group initiative with some of the 2017-2018 Provisionals that continue to meet to this day and has become a highlight of their friendships.

Social expansion continues for many members once they have finished their introductory year within the League. There have been many community events where members are there for each other, such as Krystal Sanchez’s performances through the Beaumont Community Players. She expressed that she joined the JLB to mirror everything she loved about being a former military spouse, “We were each other’s chosen family, we served the communities in which we lived, and we supported each other.”

Michelle Matheson, Bethany Longmire, and Lindsey Sorrell

Lindsay Brake and Sarah Wells

Even our current President, Sara Norman, admits to being lost without her JLB friendships,

“When I first moved to Southeast Texas 10 years ago, I knew one other woman. Thankfully, a partner at my firm, Ronda Harkey (a past-president of JLB), insisted I join Junior League as a way to meet people in my new home. I can honestly say that every one of my close friends shares a love for Junior League and I would not be the woman I am today without their love and support. They are there through thick and thin, and for every life milestone: before the birth of my first child this summer, it was those women who celebrated me and threw the most beautiful baby shower. Friendships I cultivated a decade ago in JLB continue to be the strongest friendships I have, even years later.”

back up. My mom was/is my best friend. I wouldn’t say that they replaced her, but they did fill the gaps that needed to be filled so I could heal. They still check on me to this day when they know that my mom won’t be at significant events coming up…Thank you JLB for bringing me lifelong friends.” After Krystal Sancez experienced a traumatic event this past November, she stated, “The love and support from my JLB friends was exactly what I needed at the time. I don’t want to think about if I wouldn’t have had [JLB friends].”

Whether you are looking to get to know women like you or are hoping to make connections within different demographics, JLB offers a chance to find like-minded women and expand your social circle. What connects is our love for our community.

While members are there for each other during joyous occasions, they are also a source of light for each other in difficult times. Sustainer Stephanie Vanskike reflected on the time her fellow members rallied support when her home flooded during Hurricane Harvey. Clothes, cleaning supplies, volunteers, and moral support were quickly provided to her during her time of need. She stated, “When something like that happens to you, it is incredibly humbling to be on the receiving end of all the giving. The JLB has always been a blessing to me.” When Casie Harris’s son-in-law suddenly passed away in March 2023, her daughter and grandkids moved in with her family. She stated, “So many people from the League brought my family meals, the Main Street Market committee provided gift cards, Cheri Dickerson delivered snacks and supplies, and Katherine Williams gave us a baby bed. As time goes on, everyone’s lives go back to normal and they tend to forget that you still have struggles going on at home. Right before Christmas, Tea Do showed up at my house with presents for the boys.” Megan Mistric also relied on her JLB family when her mother passed away unexpectedly in 2021. Megan reflected, “It was the JLB friends that I made that picked me

There may be ideas about what kind of women are involved in JLB, and we know some may hesitate to think there is a place for them. Although in existence since 1946, JLB has evolved with the makeup of the women of Southeast Texas. Take a look at the following statistics of our current membership – it may surprise you!

Throughout this year, we hope this Spinnings series has been insightful and revealing what makes our members return year after year. In a world where genuine connections can be hard to come by, the Junior League of Beaumont stands out as a beacon of friendship, support, and purpose. Through shared values, meaningful work, and a commitment to social expansion, members come together to form bonds that last a lifetime. These personal experiences are just a handful of what our members experience and, as you can see, friends become family within the Junior League of Beaumont. Whether you’re new to town, looking to expand your social circle, or simply seeking a community where you belong, the JLB offers a welcoming embrace and the opportunity to make friends who will enrich your life in countless ways. Joining the Junior League of Beaumont isn’t just about volunteering; it’s about gaining a family and making a difference together. It is #WhyIJLB.

Rebecca Tatum, Sarah Wells, Lindsay Brake, and Casie Harris supporting Krystal Sanchez at her production.

JLB members and friend at Sara Norman’s baby shower

Megan Mistric & friends

A group of JLB members

2024 New Active Members

We were so excited to receive 84 provisional applications for our 2024-2025 year!

Provisional orientation will give prospective members a glimpse into their provisional year and all that the JLB has to offer both to them and to the community.

Message from the 2024-2025 Membership Development Chair:

Something new that we started last year to help build rapport and membership bonding prior to the year kicking off were the August socials. Mentors will invite their mentee groups out for happy hour to get to know each other in a smaller, more intimate setting.

I am honored to get to work with the ladies that said YES to serving as provisional mentors this year! Thank you to Maegan, Allie, Erin, Sam, LaSan, Valerie, and Sarah! It’s going to be a fun year.

Upcoming Dates: May 21 Provisional Orientation August 27 1st Provisional Meeting

Ally Barron Brooke Carroll Sara Carson Juliana Davila

Michelle Domingue

Jessica Thevis

Tiffany Gobert

Lauren Hallmark Taylor Herring

Suzanna Ingram

Christi Klingman

Britney White

Frankie LaGrone Tabitha Livingston

Melissa McHaney

Lacy Oliver

Ashley Ramos

Alisha Williams

Parker Raycroft

Amanda Reed Paige Reed

Daisy Reyna Baylee Romero

Make-A-Wish Foundation Grants Brenna Gordon's Wish to Start a Freeze-Dry Business

By: Brenna Rodriguez

In a heartwarming display of support and generosity, the Make-AWish Foundation recently granted the wish of Brenna Gordon, a young aspiring chef with big dreams. Brenna G. wished to start her freeze-dry business and acquire a freeze-dryer for her homebased venture. Now, thanks to the Make-A-Wish and Junior League of Beaumont teams, Brenna G. is one step closer to turning her dreams into reality.

Brenna G. has harbored a deep love for entrepreneurship. Despite facing medical challenges, her determination and resilience have never wavered. Brenna G. set her sights on starting her own freezedry business. This venture would not only enable her to share her culinary creations with the world but also raise funds to support her dream of becoming a professional chef.

Enter the Make-A-Wish Foundation (MAW), an organization known for its commitment to making the dreams of children with critical illnesses come true. The Make-A-Wish team / Junior League volunteers, including granters Brenna Rodriguez, Maegan Collins, and Casie Harris, were instrumental in making Brenna's dream a reality. They collaborated with Brenna and her family, planning and executing the wish, ensuring every detail was covered. The organizations also provided the necessary resources to kick start her business.

The Make-A-Wish team and Junior League volunteers had an incredible time granting Brenna's wish. Witnessing her excitement and joy as her wish came true was a truly unforgettable experience.

Here's to Brenna G. and her freeze-dry business, a testament to the power of dreams and the incredible support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Junior League of Beaumont. As Brenna G. embarks on this new chapter of her life, we wish her every success in her pursuit of culinary arts and her dream of becoming a chef.

Currently following: @forgoodcode for tech tips

Currently listening to: “How She Really Does It”

M ash

By Lauren Graham

SUMMER 2024 Edition

What better way to beat the heat coming to Southeast Texas than by visiting some of the newest, coolest places in town!

GOOD HABITS

Step into a world of vibrant health and wellness at Good Habits Juicery, nestled in the heart of Old Town. Founded by the visionary Kassie Campbell, this juicery is more than just a place to grab a refreshing beverage—it’s a sanctuary for cultivating good habits that nourish both body and soul. From cold-pressed juices bursting with flavor and nutrients to smoothie bowls brimming with fresh fruits and wholesome toppings, every sip and bite is crafted with care and intention. Whether you’re a seasoned health enthusiast or just beginning your wellness journey, Good Habits welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to embrace a lifestyle of vitality, one delicious habit at a time.

BUCKSTIN

Newly established in Beaumont, Buckstin Brewery is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. Founded by passionate locals, this brewery offers an array of handcrafted ales, lagers, and stouts inspired by Texas tradition. From refreshing IPAs to rich porters, each brew tells a story of the Lone Star State’s rugged spirit. At Buckstin, beer is more than a drink—it’s an experience. Join in the laughter and conversation of their welcoming taproom, take a brewery tour, or unwind on the outdoor patio. Come savor the taste of Texas at Buckstin Brewery, where every sip is a celebration of community and craftsmanship.

RIKENJACKS

Indulge in a Taste of Success at Rikenjacks: Lumberton’s Premier Destination! Founded by the visionary minds behind the acclaimed Rikenjacks in Vidor and the beloved Madison’s in Beaumont, Rikenjacks Lumberton seamlessly blends culinary excellence with family-friendly fun. As you savor their delectable dishes, crafted with care and creativity, don’t forget to pair them with their signature drinks, expertly crafted to complement every flavor. And for the ultimate family outing, enjoy a round of mini-golf on their charming course, adding an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience. You won’t want to miss this delight that has made Rikenjacks a cherished name in Southeast Texas and beyond.

Experience the vibrant flavors of Australia at Oz Cafe. This new Beaumont-native café is a culinary journey inspired by the diverse and eclectic cuisine of the land Down Under. Owned by a passionate couple who immersed themselves in the rich culinary tapestry of Australia for several years, Aaron and Lindsie Long bring you authentic tastes and warm hospitality that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of the outback. Indulge in their carefully curated menu showcasing the finest Australian fare, from hearty meat pies to fairy bread- pair your meal with a cuppa, and you’ll be having a G’day Mate!

JLB GRANT RECIPIENTS

Our strategic goals this year focused on investing in our members and leadership development. Over the course of this year, that investment has returned tenfold. When we invested in our members, they turned around and invested in the Junior League. Through governance committees, fundraisers, and membership initiatives, our members have fully funded and supported our outward facing work: our Community Council.

We're thrilled to announce that this year, the Junior League of Beaumont has granted $106,149 to vital Southeast Texas Nonprofits, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to community betterment. This, alongside our ongoing projects, showcases the transformative power of collective action.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed through the Junior League of Beaumont, helping us create a lasting legacy of change in Southeast Texas. Together, we're making a meaningful difference!

• Shorkey Center

• Stable Spirits

• UBI Caritas

• Beaumont Family Shelter

• Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation

• Humane Society of SETX

• Art Museum of Southeast Texas

• SETX Arts and Council

• Bob Hope School

• TX Christian Professional Women’s Network

• SETX Nonprofit Development Center

• SETX Family Resource Center

• Some Other Place

• Sabine Neches Chapter Texas Master Naturalist

• Boys & Girls Club of Deep ETX

• Beaumont Art League

Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

As I reflect on this past year, I am filled with immense gratitude for our shared journey. Your support, engagement, and dedication has made every moment meaningful.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to a few individuals:

Lori Bane, whose design expertise has not only enriched our pages but brought our visions to life with exceptional creativity and precision.

Sara Norman, our League President, under whose visionary leadership we have seen a transformation in the community's perception of The Junior League of Beaumont, fostering growth and new opportunities.

Amanda Heironimus, our Communications Council Director, whose steadfast encouragement and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the direction and success of the Spinnings magazine.a

Lila Stevens, our Spinnings Sustaining Advisor, whose guidance and wisdom have helped us navigate our path to success with confidence and resilience.

My appreciation also goes out to the entire Spinnings Committee, whose tireless efforts behind the scenes make it all possible.

Here's to continued growth, deeper connections, and making a difference together. #WhyIJLB!

Sincerely,

Bethany Longmire Editor

By: Lindsey Sorrell

PLEADERSHIP BEAUMONT

When I began my 4th year as an active member in the Junior League of Beaumont, I decided my own personal theme for the year would be to get out of my comfort zone.

articipating in Leadership Beaumont has been on my “to-do” list for a long time, but it terrified me! Speaking in front of people, working with people I did not know, participating in the dreaded “ice breaker” activities; it all made me feel literally sick to my stomach thinking about it. However, I knew I was never going to grow as a leader if I didn’t take the plunge, so I did (thank you Michelle Matheson, Lana Richards, and Brenna Rodriguez for the encouragement)!

Participating in Leadership Beaumont was one of the most time consuming things I have ever done! Monthly meetings with my presentation group, monthly meetings with my graduating class, etc., it all added up and consumed a lot of time! Time management was something I had to embrace. My small group was assigned the topic of Infrastructure which is arguably one of the most complicated topics of all the ones assigned which included areas such as Education, Homelessness, Health and Well-Being and Beautifying Beaumont. Beaumont is an area rich with infrastructure: so when our group began to research what we could present on, our job became much easier than we thought it would be. We decided to discuss the Sabine Neches River Authority and their role in the Port of Beaumont, the Highway 69/96/287 and Interstate-10 interchange projects and Water and Sewage. We used the Community Investment Plan as our roadmap. We put together a program and invited speakers to present on our behalf to our graduating class including Elton Hollis, AJ Turner, and Mayor Roy West (who are all past DWTS participants). We were also responsible for scheduling a location for our class to meet and arranging food and refreshments.

The things I learned throughout my participation in Leadership Beaumont, such as being confident and learning to lead with humility, were invaluable and I was able to put them to use immediately. In my role as a Public Relations CoChair for this year’s Dancing with the Stars event, I was put in situations I was

not comfortable in, including reaching out to our Star cast, meeting with them and attending their rehearsals and interviewing them for our social media outlets. Participating in a group of individuals I did not know and learning how to interact and have more confidence when doing so helped me so incredibly much with my placement this year.

Joining the Junior League of Beaumont is one of the best things I have done-both personally, as a community member and for professional growth. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Junior League of Beaumont’s representative in Leadership Beaumont’s graduating class of 2024.

My thanks go to Sara Norman and the Nominating and Placement Committee for choosing me to represent the League. Representing the League in this capacity added significant meaning to my experience, particularly knowing that establishing Leadership Beaumont was one of our signature projects. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have participated this year to learn and grow so much more than I ever could have hoped for. I hope to inspire someone reading this who is as nervous as I was about stepping out of your comfort zone to take the leap and do it! Your future self will thank you!

member

SPOTLIGHT

Hometown Pottersville, NY Education JD from Albany Law School, Albany NY

Family Jack age 25, Mae age 22

Pets 2 rescue lab mixes, Teddy 11, Noah 6

Occupation Federal Magistrate Judge

Hobbies Reading, Gardening, & Golf

What was your favorite placement as an active? Really too many favorites to pick from but a few stand out: Glamor Gowns (it was a part of Main Street Market – we located gently used gowns for high school students); Treasurer (I know, weird, but I really enjoyed it) and of course, President.

What is your favorite thing about living in SETX? How welcoming everyone is to newcomers.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? A lawyer.

What’s your favorite way to spend a day off? I would play golf in the morning, garden in the afternoon or visa versa, and then sit on my back porch and read.

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on? Greece/Munich 1994 and then a tie for second Ireland with my sister 2015 or Scotland/London with my kids 2023.

What is a unique fun fact about you that some may not know? I was a member of the Future Farmers of America in Junior High.

What three items would you take with you on a deserted island? Music, my dogs, The Harry Potter series.

What is your favorite holiday? Christmas.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery? Buy a lake house in Schroon Lake, NY.

What would you tell someone who is interested in joining the league? Do it! Whether you are interested in making lifelong friends, serving the community or learning leadership skills, there is something for everyone.

Christine Stetson

JLB SUSTAINER

Cheri Dickerson

Hometown

Lewiston, Idaho

Education

Master of Science, Texas Tech University: Food and Nutrition

Bachelor of Science, University of Arizona: Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics Option

Family

Jason, husband of 24 years

Sam, 21, Senior at the United States Military Academy at West Point

Ava, 18, Freshman at The University of Arizona

Jake, 15, Sophomore at Hardin-Jefferson

Audrey, 12, 7th grade at Hardin-Jefferson

Jude, 10, 4th grade at Hardin-Jefferson

Pets

Rusty and Blue (dogs) and Junior and Georgia (cats)

Occupation

Registered Dietitian and occasional substitute teacher

Hobbies

Avid reader. Adventurous traveler. Reluctant exerciser. Lover of plants. Happiest in my kitchen.

What has been your favorite placement? My favorite placement was chairing Healthy Behaviors. As an RD, I am passionate about health and nutrition, and that was a perfect platform for me to share my knowledge. I also love teenagers - they keep me laughing! I love the camaraderie of being on a committee - you really get to know people when you spend that much time with them.

A genie gives you three wishes - what are they ?

1. It sounds cliche, but World Peace. Have you seen the quote “if the moms were in charge, there would be no war”? When you have a kid that signs up for active-duty military, the news hits differently.

2. Communal living with my friends. A shared front porch, a huge garden, and help raising the herd of children we all have.

3. I would love for my husband and I to enjoy good health long enough to see our children succeed.

Describe your perfect day. I wake after a night of uninterrupted sleep (if you are over 40, you may know how fleeting this is). Coffee and reading in bed followed by a great workout - Jason makes me breakfast. I spend the morning doing self-care: massage, hair, pedi. I meet my girlfriends for lunch. We are transported to the river where we float all afternoon and eat cherries. Dinner is with my people; my mom has flown in to make dinner - she’s the best chef I know. We laugh, maybe play the Generations trivia game. I go to bed exhausted and fall asleep five pages into a great book. Yeah. That all sounds perfect.

What’s the best vacation you’ve ever been on? Every summer I retreat to Idaho for as long as I can. My family has a lake place in the Panhandle and I’ve gone every summer of my life. I love it so much and am so grateful my kids have had this same experience. Every year is the best year.

What is a unique fun fact about you that some may not know? My kids tease me about this, because I was a one-time attendee-- but I went to State for track in high school. I tease them back because none of them have done it. It’s a fun running joke- pun intended.

What is your all time favorite food? Hands down- salad. It goes with my love language- if someone is going to take the time to layer flavors and textures, make homemade dressing, and chop up all the things: you know they love you.

What would be the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery? Buy all the books and plants on my wish list.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Italy. I took a trip for my 40th birthday and loved it.

What would you tell someone who is interested in joining the league? There’s no time like the present! It’s never too late to invest in yourself and in this amazing community that we live in. We truly are women on a mission: I believe there isn’t anything we can’t do when we all work together.

JLB PROVISIONAL

Lauren Hallmark

Hometown Orangefield, TX

Education

Bachelor’s degree from Lamar University

Family married to husband Ty for 14 years and have 2 boys - 12 year old Scout, and 7 year old Bohdi.

Pets

Two dogs - a gigantic Golden doodle named Hennessy and a stray named Guinness

Occupation

Real estate agent

Hobbies

I love to cook anything and everything - I used to make my Dad eat all of my recipes when my mom was out of town. Back when I was a stay at home mom, I started a salsa company called Fresh. I ended up winning the 2014 HEB Texas Picks contest. Feeding people is my love language. I’m also a sports mama, and enjoy going to tennis and all of our sports games.

What made you decide to join the Junior League of Beaumont?

I’ve thought about joining for a while, I just didn’t know if I would have the time or energy to put into it. Now that my kids are in school full time, I decided to join with a friend and see what it was all about. I’ve always been passionate about volunteering and I thought it was a great opportunity to do more in the community.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?

“Just go with it”. I’m an over thinker and perfectionist - I over analyze everything. Usually I have the most fun when I just go for it. It is advice that I’ve enjoyed trying to instill in my kids as well.

How do you like to relax after a long day?

I like to come home and do my routine - do homework with my kids and get them settled. Then I’ll cook a nice slow dinner, have a bath, and drink a glass of wine. I’ll close out the night by watching a movie.

Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?

My favorite trip to date was for my 10th anniversary when we went to the Bahamas. We were able to swim with hundreds of sharks and it was an amazing experience. I can’t wait to go back and share the place with my kids.

What are some of your favorite restaurants in town?

I love Carlito’s, Ko and Taz. I think Taz is severely underrated and always recommend it to folks. I really love anything Asian. Ko is such a fun, familyfriendly place. We like to go and enjoy their s’mores.

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

My kids. I really came into myself when I became a mom and realized what was important to me. I love doing all of the small stuff and giving them experiences. I can’t imagine my life without being a mom. It really makes your heart so fierce and drives you to be a better person. Especially knowing that your kids are watching.

What is one thing you will never do again?

I will never drive a long road trip - ever again! We decided to drive to Colorado and it took 20 hours. I will never ever do that again to myself or my kids - do not recommend.

If you could share a meal with anyone, who would it be?

Probably my dad - one last time.

Who would you want to play you in a movie?

Anne Hathaway - I love her bangs and style - she is so timeless.

TRANSIT

March Event

Date: Wednesday, March 27

Location: JW Patio

Topic: Grad/Senior Dinner

Overview of Event:

JLB Sponsored three area foster seniors for this event, showering them with gifts as they begin their new lives in work & college. They also provided dinner from JW Patio. This was a small, casual event where we were able to shower the graduating girls. Our committee came together to purchase the gifts for the girls and it was a very special night for everyone and a sweet end to our league year.

May Event #2

Date: Rescheduled to May 22

Location: Market to Hope

Topic/Overview of Event: This will be an informational dinner in collaboration with Healthy Behaviors and Service Squad. We had 17 foster youth and caregivers scheduled to attend. We are planning to provide dinner and invite some informational speakers about healthy diet topics. This dinner will also provide a private tour of the Market to Hope facility and highlight other resources in the area that foster families could use if needed.

May Event #1

Date: Wednesday, May 15

Location: The Laurels

Topic: Southeast Texas Heart Gallery Launch

Overview of Event: This was a special evening with dinner to view beautiful photographs of children awaiting adoption from the foster care system. The Heart Gallery is a traveling Art Show of life-size pictures of children in foster care looking for their Forever Homes! This was a special evening with dinner and guest speakers hosted by the Texas Family Care Network. This invitation-only event was held at the Laurels on Calder Avenue on May 15th. Keynote speaker Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott spoke about her key role in supporting legislation for funding for foster care agencies and their importance. Notably for our region, out of 11 foster care contracts awarded throughout the state, Texas Family Care Network was the only SSCC (private foster care agency) to receive a contract.

Speaker: Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Mr. and Mrs. Dade Phelan

IONING

Communications Council

• Logo Rebrand

• Website Redesign

Finance Council

• Resurgence of Lagniappe

• Record - breaking DWTS

• Raised $566,731 in revenue & donations

• Value of Hours = $265,754

• Total Monumental Value = $832,485

Planning Council

• 26 Conference Seats

• Outside Leadership Training

Community Council

• Governor’s Office Accolades for Brainstorming at the Border

• Largest physical donation in Market to Hope History

• Provisional Project Reach & Impact

• $106,149 in Grant Awards

• Total Community Investment = $145,494

Membership Council

• Member Benefit at Primary Meetings

• Over 8,900 Volunteer Hours Served

• 23 New Actives & Crazy Number of Applicants

Scholarship:

Our scholarship requests an essay describing how the applicant and the organization(s) for which the applicant volunteered benefited from the applicant’s volunteer work, future goals regarding voluntarism, and future educational/career plans. They also submit a letter of reference from at least one organization where the applicant demonstrated her commitment to voluntarism and a letter of reference from the applicant's high school principal, assistant principal, school counselor, or teacher.

We were blessed this year to receive 14 scholarship applications. All were great applicants but two stood out the most. Nominating and Placement couldn’t decide so we requested the finance council to allow for two $1,000 scholarships, they granted it!

Our two scholarship recipients are Loni Briggs & Grace Ann Herford.

Loni Briggs

Loni attends Hamshire-Fannett High School and has been a huge volunteer since she was in middle school. Loni and her mom started their own nonprofit in August of 2019 called Petal Power. This organization repurposes flowers from weddings, funerals, special events and donates them to first responders and nursing homes. Loni believes that most of the flowers would have been thrown away and now are repurposed to bring smiles to others.

Loni has also held a donation drive for her mission trip to Liberia with her grandparents. Her grandparents are leaders in International Gospel Outreach which owns a school for pastors and a clinic in a small village in Liberia, West Africa. Loni worked as a triage nurse, taking the medical history and gathering information from the villagers before they saw the nurses. Before leaving for the trip she raised over $1,300 to purchase supplies.

Loni will be attending Spelman College with a double major in psychology and health sciences. She wants to travel the world and offer mental health services to the less fortunate & work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner & hopefully open her own clinic back here in her hometown.

Grace Ann Herford

Grace attends Vidor High School and graduating Summa Cum Laude as she is ranked #3 in her class. She is currently serving as 2nd Lieutenant on their drill team, Vice President of Interact Club, and active member of National Honor Society, Key Club and French Club.

Grace is one of the co-founders of Kids for a Cause, a service organization which serves and gives back to underprivileged children in our community. Kids for a Cause raises money annually through Cocoa for a Cause which benefits Blue Santa and other local charities. In the 6 years of her own involvement in the program they have raised over $14,000. In 2021, Kids for a Cause was able to partner with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, another local non-profit, and they did not just bring goods but were able to help put in labor. Grace was able to get her hands dirty and spent the entire day cutting wood, sanding it, and building it into a bed for a child to sleep in. At the end of the day, they produced 13 beds and once the shop was cleaned they got to disburse the beds out into the community.

Grace is attending Texas A&M in the fall to pursue a five-year integrated degree that will allow her to obtain her bachelors in business administration and master’s in financial management. Her goal is to become a successful business woman that will afford her to continue being a servant leader in her community.

Michelle Domingue Provisional of the Year

Congratulations to our Provisional of the Year, Michelle Domingue! Michelle's dedication truly shines through her outstanding accomplishment of completing 40 community project hours, far exceeding the required 8. With perfect attendance at all provisional meetings, she's shown unwavering commitment. Her fearless leadership as a committee chair for the provisional project exemplifies her passion and initiative. Throughout the year, Michelle has been a beacon of authenticity, honesty, and loyalty, making a profound impact on us all. We are incredibly fortunate to have her transition from provisional to active status, as her future in the league promises to be exceptionally bright.

Lauren Thieme Active of the Year

Congratulations to our 2024 Active of the Year Lauren

You have accomplished so much in your ten years of service to the league.

the Year

our

Junior League of Beaumont and you are so deserving of this honor!

Thieme!

Diana Miles Sustainer of

Congratulations to

Sustainer of the Year Diana Miles! You have given your heart and soul to the

23-24 BOARD REFLECTION

Sara Norman, President:

We set some big goals for the year, and I am so proud to say we exceeded every expectation. For every council, it was a record-breaking year! I am so proud of the work we’ve done and I know this momentum will be carried into the future. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to serve as President of the Junior League of Beaumont, and I am so grateful for the chance to lead these incredible women. Congratulations on a phenomenal year!

Mallory Cross, Community Council Director:

Each chair did such an amazing job to implement opportunities that have been successful for each placement, also found ways to make it their own and bring new ideas to cement their leadership and ideals. I am so thankful for a wonderful year and I could not have asked for a better group of ladies who lead with such passion and grace.

Nadine Ona, Treasurer-Elect / Ways & Means Chair

I’m so proud of what Ways and Means and Finance were able to accomplish this year! We had so many in depth discussions about the financial vision and plan for JLB. I’m grateful to have served with such intelligent, involved women all year.

Kate Eckhart, Treasurer & Finance Council Director:

Our fundraisers absolutely smashed it this year! Both Main Street Market and Dancing With the Stars exceeded their fundraising goals with a renewed passion for our headlining events. Who knew finance could be so much fun? To all the chairs, co-chairs, and committee members of our fundraisers, and to everyone who volunteered their time to serve on finance committee: thank you for your enthusiasm, time spent away from families and friends, and dedication to the League. Your hard work is a direct reflection of the success of our fundraisers. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside each and every one of you this year.

Amanda Heironimus, Communications Council Director: Our Communication Council had an extremely busy year! We’ve successfully rebranded with a new logo, expanded our social media reach and redesigned our JLB website, all while maintaining the everyday needs of our council. I’m thankful for each council chair and their leadership throughout the year.

Anna Papa, Planning Council Director

This was such an exciting year for Planning Council to get through a backlog of very un-exciting tasks to improve both member experience and community impact. I’m so grateful for our wonderful committee leaders and the work they did increasing our revenue through rental income, giving our members impactful education opportunities with local leaders and planning for the future of our league.

O.N.E. THE PROJECT

2023-2024 | Marie

Murray

It's been a great year working with Make Ends Meet. We've gotten to see them really put their boots on the ground and focus on the mission to serve single parent families in SETX. The Angel Tree during Main Street Market was such a success that they actually DOUBLED their goal. We are excited to see Make Ends Meet continue their growth into the future.

busy

2024-2025

| Courtney Hooker

This year the O.N.E. will be working with Stable-Spirit. Stable-Spirit is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide the community with opportunities that inspire positive mental, physical, and emotional health through professionally guided interaction with horses. Many of their clients are not able to pay for services without assistance or reduced rates. Stable-Spirit has used funds generated from past fundraisers, grants, and donations to provide mental and physical health services to those needing assistance and to the care of the horses. We are looking forward to this year's partnership with Stable-Spirit and elevating them to the next level, with The O.N.E. helping. It will be enjoyable seeing them grow and helping them accomplish their mission.

Amanda Heironimus, Communications Council

Our Communication Council

year! We’ve successfully new logo, expanded our social reach and redesigned our all while maintaining the everyday needs of our council. I’m thankful each council chair and their throughout the year.

jewel

AWARD WINNERS

Erin Godina Dollars and Sense Award

Honors an active member that makes the best use of her budget, or gets the “Biggest Bang for her Buck”.

This person is a fearless leader with big goals and encouragement for her team from day one. She has done something no one has ever done- she led her committee to raise over $70,000 more than years prior! Hands down the most successful fundraiser in JLB history!! She has done a beautiful job with DWTS- she has sold not only the first 15k sponsorship but sold three of them this year!!! She also introduced a diamond raffle that helped her profit even more money for the League!

Council Director:

had an extremely successfully rebranded with a social media

JLB website, everyday thankful for their leadership

Ashley Willis Outstanding Community Project Member

Honors an active working on a community project that brings an extra level of enthusiasm, dedication and involvement to the project.

Her work to develop the relationship with JLB and Market to Hope spans two years. Through constant communication, she turned a one-off food drive last year to a pillar in HB’s annual plans and Market to Hope have continually been cheerleaders of JLB ever since. The project and relationship absolutely would not have happened without her. Not only that, on delivery day, she was the only member of her committee available to shop for and deliver the largest physical donation in Market to Hope history. She took a day off work and spent 7 hours wrapping up a huge initiative and did it all with a smile on her face and no complaints.

Contributions

Community Projects

• Melissa Byrd

• Tania Castelan

• Sharon Bissell

• Lauren Cavett

• Becky Mason

• Lila Stevens

General Fund:

• Cheri Dickerson

• Brooke Morrow

Michelle Matheson Innovators Award

Honors an active that improves her placement/position by doing something new or unique with it.

During her budget hearings last year she told Sara she just didn’t know what she was going to do with Abolish... Volunteering at the Harvest House, while important, is hard for many committee members. When she realized that she could think outside the box and do something totally different... she did. She created the “Brainstorm at the Border’’eventfeaturing speakers from all over Texas. She got the JLLake Charles involved. KELLYE TURNER at the GOVERNOR’S OFFICE knows our names, location, group... I’d love to repeat this event at a League meeting next year: that’s how great I thought it was. She has refreshed & revived Abolish & excited to see what she does on the board next year!

Christina Crawford Outstanding Community Impact

Honors an active or sustainer who has significantly impacted our community by volunteering outside of the JLB Outstanding Community Impact.

This woman is always there not only to support JLB but also to support tons of nonprofits in our area. She has helped with NRF, Symphony, Oaks Historic, Beaumont Heritage Society, and plenty more. She has always shared beautiful things about Beaumont and fully embraced all of Southeast Texas! She constantly has her door open for JLB- whether for meetings, a quick chat, or guidance.

Annual Fund

• Karen Collins

• Melanie Heartfield

• Rebecca Holland

• Allison Hughes

• Mary Sue Stout-Carrington

• Kathryn Fuller in Tribute of Cathy Spidle

• Ida Pyle in Tribute of Rosine Wilson

• Laine Morrison in Tribute of Sara Norman

• Sarah Matheny in Memory of Allison Nathan Getz

• Nancy McGrade in Memory of Catherine Edwards

2024-2025 Placement

Camp

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President

President-Elect

Treasurer/Finance Council

Treasurer-Elect/Ways & Means Chair ............................

Cheri Dickerson

Communications Council Director

Community Council Director

Membership Council Director

/Nominating Chair

Planning Council/Bylaws Chair

Corresponding Secretary

Recording Secretary

Past-President

DANCING WITH THE STARS COMMITTEE

DWTS Chair ........................................................................

DWTS Co-Chair

DWTS Business Manager

DWTS Atmosphere Chair

DWTS Public Relations Chair

DWTS Public Relations Co-Chair

DWTS Star Liaison

DWTS Stage Manager

DWTS Star Reveal Chair ...................................................

DWTS Table Sales ...............................................................

DWTS Committee Member

DWTS Committee Member

DWTS Committee Member

Membership Development Chair

Membership Development Co-Chair

Provisional Mentor

Provisional Mentor

Provisional Mentor .............................................................

Provisional Mentor .............................................................

Provisional Mentor

Provisional Mentor

SUSTAINER CHAIR

Sustainer Chair

Sarah Wells

Nadine Ona Daigle

Courtney White

Ashlee Garrett

Michelle Matheson

Allison Wright

Rebecca Tatum

Brooke Morrow

Casie Harris

Sara Norman

Megan Mistric

Regina Miller

Lindsey Sorrell

Megan Kingrey

Ashley Carter

Suzanna Ingram

Betsy Henslee

Kristen Davidson

Marissa Baze

Brooke Carroll

Katherine Williams

Sheena Fowler

Lacy Oliver

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Stephanie Cassels

Maegan Collins

Allie Kelley

Erin Godina

LaSan Gilder

Samantha Leifeste

Sarah Brown

Valerie Lewis

Amanda Yarbrough

Digital Cheetah Development Chair

Digital Cheetah Development Co-Chair

THE O.N.E. SIGNATURE PROJECT

The O.N.E Chair

The O.N.E Co-Chair

The O.N.E Committee Member

The O.N.E Committee Member

The O.N.E Committee Member

The O.N.E. Committee Member

Aily Powell

Amanda Yarbrough

Daisy Reyna

Lauren Hallmark

Courtney Hooker

Megan Pounders

Michelle Domingue

Lindsay Brake

Meredith Youngson

Misty Kaman

The O.N.E. Committee Member Andi Tieszen

SPINNINGS COMMITTEE

Spinnings Chair

Spinnings Co-Chair

Spinnings Staff Writer

Spinnings Staff Writer ..............................................................

Spinnings Staff Writer ..............................................................

Spinnings Staff Writer

Resource Development

Resource Development

HEADQUARTERS COMMITTEE

Headquarters Co-Chair

Headquarters Co-Chair ...........................................................

EDUCATION & TRAINING COMMITTEE

Education & Training Chair

Bethany Longmire

Juliana Davila

Nina Victores

Margaret Victores

Denise Neef-Fiore

Rachel Cuevas

Paige Reed

Aily Powell

Brooke Morrow

Lauren Bailey

Kate Thorne

Education & Training Co-Chair ............................................ Brandi Lopez

FUND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Fund Development Chair .......................................................

Fund Development Co-Chair

YEARBOOK CHAIR

Yearbook Chair

Kellsey Fairchild

Shelby Kelly

Ashley Case

NOMINATING AND PLACEMENT COMMITTEE

Nominating & Placement Chair

Allison Wright

Nominating & Placement Co-Chair Mallory Cross

Nominating & Placement Committee Member Kennetha Alvarez

Nominating & Placement Committee Member Mattie Beaver

Nominating & Placement Committee Member Kate Eckhart

Nominating & Placement Committee Member Amanda Heironimus

Nominating & Placement Committee Member Nicki Messina

Nominating & Placement Committee Member ............ Amanda Newmann

Nominating & Placement Committee Member ............ Ashley Willis

SERVICE SQUAD

Service Squad Chair

Service Squad Co-Chair

Service Squad Co-Chair

Service Squad- BCM Liaison

Service Squad- Make-A-Wish Liaison

Service Squad Committee Member

Service Squad Committee Member

Arquelle Gilder

Kaylee Henry

Phelicia Williams

Laura Wyman

Lana Richards

Amber Hicks

Amber Villareal

Service Squad Committee Member ................................. Amanda Reed

Service Squad Committee Member ................................. Amanda Gardner

Service Squad Committee Member Andrea Smalley

Service Squad Committee Member

Service Squad Committee Member

Service Squad Committee Member

Ashley Brands Willis

Ashley Billot

Callie Johnson

Service Squad Committee Member Christie Cooper

Service Squad Committee Member Esmeralda Kiner

Service Squad Committee Member

Jessica Cook

Service Squad Committee Member ................................. Marie Murray

Service Squad Committee Member ................................. Parker Raycroft

Service Squad Committee Member Rene Ford

HEALTHY BEHAVIORS-PROJECT 5210

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Chair Amy Jerry

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Co-Chair Alicia Doss

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Elyse Broussard

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Melissa McHaney

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Brenna Johnson

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Christina Sifuentes-Ayla

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member ....... Melaney Villery-Samuel

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Tiffany Shelton

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Christi Klingman

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Ally Barron

Healthy Behaviors/Project 5210 Comm. Member Frankie LaGrone

TRANSITIONING YOUTH

Transitioning Youth Chair Brandi Verdine

Transitioning Youth Co-Chair Alá Abbott

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Ashley Ramos

Transitioning Youth Committee Member .............Tania Castelan

Transitioning Youth Committee Member .............Karley Zummo

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Heather Wise

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Shalon Guidry

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Sarah Gibson

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Claire Brown

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Sara Carson

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Ariana Bates

Transitioning Youth Committee Member Sharita Gardner

MAIN STREET MARKET COMMITTEE

MSM Chair ....................................................................Danielle Spencer

MSM Co-Chair Karlee Ogden

MSM Exhibitor Chair Kristen Ritter

MSM Exhibitor Co-Chair Ashton Smith

MSM Business Manager Brittany White-Muhlenkort

MSM Publicity Chair Farren Morris

MSM Publlicity Co-Chair Alisha Williams

MSM Atmosphere Chair Kaylee Allen

MSM Atmosphere Co-Chair LaTesha Hunter

MSM Special Events Chair ........................................Kelsey Borza

MSM Drawing Chair Tiffany Gobert

MSM Underwriting Chair Krystal Sanchez

MSM Committee Member Jessica Thevis

LAGNIAPPE COMMITTEE

Lagniappe Chair Christina Lokey

Lagniappe Business Manager Lauren Graham

Lagniappe Committee Member Laurel Rugg

PROJECT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT/

CAF GRANT COMMITTEE

PRD/CAF Grant Chair ...............................................Taneé Coleman

PRD/CAF Grant Co-Chair ........................................Brenna Rodriguez

MEETING ARRANGEMENTS COMMITTEE

Meeting Arrangements Chair Ashley Misko

Meeting Arrangements Co-Chair Samantha Hemmenway

Meeting Arrangements Committee Member Brieann Edwards

ABOLISH

Abolish Project Chair (Community Council) .. Crystal McElroy

Abolish Project Co-Chair Brittany Briscoe

Abolish Committee Member Tabitha Livingston

Abolish Committee Member Baylee Romero

Abolish Committee Member Raven Pratt

Abolish Committee Member Britney White

Neches River Festival

It’s truly fascinating to reflect on the historical context of organizations like the Junior League and the Neches River Festival, both of which have deep roots in our community dating back to the late 1940s. It’s incredible to think about the vision and dedication of those individuals who sought to make Beaumont a better place during that time.

Every year, our community has the privilege of offering representation for the Neches River Festival Princesses, and this year, we had the pleasure of presenting four exceptional young women. It’s truly inspiring to witness their dedication and achievements at such a young age.

I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with each of them, and I’ve already extended an invitation for them to join their local Junior Leagues when they become eligible. I firmly believe that these young women represent the future of our volunteer force. They’ve already demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities and a commitment to making a difference in our community.

Allow me to present these exceptional individuals:

Heidi McCabe

By: Cheri Dickerson

Granddaughter of Junior League Sustainer, Sharon McCabe. Heidi’s diverse educational background and extensive volunteer service reflect a remarkable dedication to personal growth and community betterment. Her pursuit of a degree in Geosystem Engineering and Hydrogeology at the University of Texas at Austin is a testament to her commitment to environmental stewardship.

Abbi McCollough

Abbi is the niece of Junior League Sustainer, Meg Brown. Abbi’s passion for dance and environmental science is truly admirable. Her involvement in the West Brook Stars drill team and her aspirations to pursue a degree in Environmental Science and Biology at Lamar University demonstrate her commitment to combining her talents with her dedication to environmental preservation.

Macy Richardson

Macy is the niece of Junior League Active, Farren Morris. Macy’s involvement in various extracurricular activities showcases her dedication and versatility. Her aspiration to become a digital marketer demonstrates her forward-thinking mindset and entrepreneurial spirit. She will continue to pursue her passions with determination as she embarks on her journey at Texas A&M University.

Isabella Phoung May Tran

Isabella is the niece of Junior League Active/ soon sustainer, Tea Do. Isabella’s enthusiasm for volunteering and her ambitious pursuit of a nursing degree at Louisiana State University are truly commendable. Her dedication to academic excellence and community service exemplifies the values of the Junior League and the Neches River Festival.

These young women are already making a significant impact, and it’s an honor that the Junior League had the opportunity to represent them this year.There is no doubt that they will continue to make substantial contributions to both the Junior League and the broader Beaumont community for years to come.

AprilMini Meetings

By: Valerie Lewis Education & Training Chair

Big thanks to our incredible Education and Training Committee for organizing this year's mini-meetings. It provided a fantastic chance for our members to explore something fresh and foster new connections.

Pottery

Yoga @ Cattail Marsh

Wine Bingo

Bunco

Pickleball

Estrella & Permanent Jewelry Flower Arrangements

Wine Tasting Penche Pilates

PROVISIONALCORNER

Thank you Mentors!

END OF YEAR

PROVISIONAL PROJECT

Provisional Project: “Courtroom Pals”

Chair: Paige Reed

Co Chair: Taylor Herring

Liaisons: Suzanna Ingram & Ashley Ramos

Donations Committee:

Chair: Michelle Domingue

Co Chair: Tabitha Livingston

Members: Ally Barron, Lauren Hallmark, Christi Klingman, Melissa McHaney, Parker Raycroft, & Britney White

Marketing Committee:

Chair: Alisha Williams

Co chair: Baylee Romero

Members: Sara Carson & Tiffany Gobert

Design Committee:

Chair: Lacy Oliver

Co chair: Juliana Davila

Members: Brooke Carroll, Frankie LaGrone, Amanda Reed, Daisy Reyna, & Jessica Thevis

The Provisionals have completed their project “Courtroom Pals” and what a success it turned out to be! Below are some words from various individuals involved and their feedback on how it all turned out…

Year End Recap/Words from the Chair:

First, I want to thank the League for giving me the opportunity to be the Chair of Membership Development. As I told the provisionals throughout the year, everyone has their own reason for joining the Junior League. I always felt like I knew what my reason was, but then I met and got to work with this year’s provisional class, and I realized that they are my reason. There is so much I can say about this group of hardworking, dedicated individuals. From the support each of them gave to the community projects, to the commitment they showed to the fundraisers, these ladies know what it means to show up, do their part, and do it well. I want to thank them for not only making the league stronger but also for making our community brighter. The future of the league is in great hands with these new actives and we know they will be such an asset to their upcoming placements! Welcome Provisional Class of 2024 to being an Active!!

- Mattie Beaver, Chair of Membership Development

Our Provisional Class is composed of exceptional women—kind, smart, and compassionate—who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of our Provisional Project: Courtroom Pals. Their innovative ideas and strategic thinking brought fresh perspectives and led to impactful solutions. Their dedication not only enriched the project but also demonstrated their commitment to making a tangible difference in our community. This project was a collaborative effort, with each person playing a crucial role in achieving our goal of positively impacting those who testify at the Jefferson County Courthouse. At the completion of the Provisional Project, I saw many proud, bright faces, reflecting their satisfaction and pride in the meaningful work they accomplished, and will continue to accomplish as Actives in the Junior League of Beaumont.

- Paige Reed, Courtroom Pals Project Chair

“ “ ” ” ”

What a great partnership; of all the worthwhile projects the Junior League could select, they selected to totally renovate our children’s waiting room!” This room will comfort the children who unfortunately have been victimized by criminals. The Junior League has joined us in our efforts to protect our most precious asset, our children, thank you!

- Keith Giblin, District Attorney

APRIL MEETING

April 9th, 2024

Location: The League House

Theme: Volunteers Make the World Go Round

Hosted by: Casie Harris, Suzanna Ingram, Frankie LaGrone, and Jessica Thevis

Overview of Event: As our final provisional meeting of the year, we got to celebrate all the achievements this class brought to the table. Each provisional received a personalized award from their Mentor, and President Elect, Cheri Dickerson, gave an insight on what we have to look forward to under her leadership next year! The provisionals concluded their meeting with assembling the witness bags for their project. What a great way to wrap up such a successful year!

When these ladies met back in January to start their project, it was abundantly clear they meant business and we knew they were committed to doing big things. And did they ever! This class somehow managed to make over not one but two waiting rooms in the courthouse and then also donated over 60 child witness bags. They ended up collecting a total of over $5,000 worth of donations! When it came to the woman power, these ladies did not cut corners. They assembled chairs, painted walls, and decorated both waiting rooms with new artwork and furniture. We could not be more proud of each member and the commitment, hard work, and passion they each gave to ensure this project was such a success!

- Mattie Beaver and Stephanie Cassels, Chair and Co Chair of Membership Development

4th of July

by Nina Victores

Berry Chantilly Cake

Iused this recipe to make this cake for a Fourth of July party last year and it came out perfectly! I made three layers of cake and used red and blue food coloring in the vanilla cake batter to create red, white, and blue layers.

Equipment

• Stand Mixer

• Round Piping Tip and Piping Bag

Ingredients

Vanilla Cake Recipe

• 13 oz bleached cake flour

• 13 oz granulated sugar

• 3 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 8 oz butter unsalted

• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 10 oz whole milk room temperature

• 3 oz vegetable oil

• 3 large eggs room temperature

Chantilly Cream

• 16 oz cream cheese softened

• 8 oz unsalted butter softened

• 16 oz mascarpone cheese softened

• 22 oz powdered sugar sifted

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 8 oz heavy whipping cream

• 2 teaspoon instant pudding mix or any other whipped cream stabilizer. *

Berry Cake Filling

• 2 cups fresh or frozen berries

• 2.5 oz sugar

• 1 oz water

• 1 oz cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 2 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

Vanilla Cake Instructions

• Note: It's VERY important that your cold ingredients are at room temperature or slightly warmed. See video for tips.

• Heat oven to 335º F/168º C — 350º F/177º C. I tend to use lower setting to prevent my cakes from getting too dark on the outside before the inside is done baking.

• Place 4oz of the milk and oil in a separate bowl or cup and set aside

• Combine remaining milk, vanilla extract, almond extract and room temp eggs in a separate measuring cup and set aside

• Measure out dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and place them into the stand mixer bowl.

• Attach the paddle to the mixer, and turn on the slowest speed (setting 1 on Kitchen Aid mixers). Slowly add chunks of your softened butter until it is all added. Let mix until batter resembles coarse sand.

• Add milk/oil mixture into the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed (speed 4 on my KitchenAid) and mix for 2 full minutes. Do not skip this step or your cake will not rise.

• Add in ⅓ of your milk/egg mixture. Repeat 2 more times until batter is just combined. Don't forget to scrape your bowl.

• I always start by baking for 25 minutes for 8" and smaller cakes and 30 minutes for 9" and larger cakes and then checking for doneness. If the cakes are still really jiggly, I add another 5 minutes. I check every 5 minutes after that until I'm close and then it's every 2 minutes. Cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs.

• Remove the cake pan from the oven and "tap" it lightly on the counter once to remove air from the cake and keep it from shrinking un-evenly.

• Place cakes on a cooling rack and press down the dome immediately with an oven mitt covered hand. After cakes have cooled for 10 minutes or the pans are cool enough to touch, flip the cakes over and remove from the pans onto the cooling racks to cool completely. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator.

• Once the cakes are chilled in the refrigerator (about an hour for this size, longer for larger cakes), tort, fill and crumb coat all at once. If you do not plan on crumb coating the same day, you can leave the wrapped cakes on the countertop. Chilling can dry out your cakes before they are iced, so avoid keeping them in the refrigerator longer than necessary. Cakes can be frozen in freezer bags for later use as well.

Chantilly Cream Instructions

• Cream together the softened butter, cream cheese and mascarpone cheese together until smooth.

• Add in the powdered sugar and continue creaming until combined

• Whip the whipped cream to soft peaks. Add in the pudding mix to stabilize the whipped cream and whip until just combined. Add in the vanilla and almond extract. Peaks should be firm but not curdled. This happens quickly so watch your cream closely! Check out the stabilized whipped cream recipe to see other options to use besides instant pudding mix.

• Fold your cream cheese mixture and whipped cream together to make your frosting.

Berry Cake Filling

• Place the berries in a medium saucepan with 2.5 oz of sugar and bring to a simmer.

• Combine the cornstarch with the cold water to make a slurry. Pour the slurry into the bubbling berries.

• Cook a few minutes until the mixture is thick (1-2 minutes). Remove the berries from the heat and stir in the zest of one lemon and your lemon juice.

• Cool berry filling before using.

Source: https://sugargeekshow.com/recipe/berry-chantilly-cake/#recipe

* See my post: https://sugargeekshow.com/recipe/stabilized-whipped-cream/

Garth House Purse Bingo

Sustainer Tea

Mother’s Day Tea @ Book Nook Inn

Beaumont Children’s Museum

Beaumont Farmer’s Market Art

Bougie Bingo

JLB @ Bougie Bingo

Adams Elementary

Sustainer Tea

Sustainer Tea

member NEWS

JLB WEBSITE

The Junior League of Beaumont’s website has been updated!

THE ONE

For the 2024 - 2025 year, the O.N.E.will be working with Stable-Spirit.

SUSTAINERS

A heartfelt thank you to our Junior League members who are transitioning to Sustaining Members for their incredible impact! Your unwavering support ensures our mission continues to thrive and touch countless lives.

As you embark on this new chapter, carry with you the invaluable lessons learned and cherish the warm memories shared. These remarkable women have held esteemed roles including Community Council Members, Board Members, Fundraising Chairs, President, and Active of the Year, among numerous other notable achievements throughout their Junior League journey.

Thank you all for your unwavering dedication, passion, and service to our community. Your legacy continues to inspire us.

Katie Baker

AJLI WEBSITE

The AJLI website has a new look!

Pick up a copy of Spinnings, now located at:

• Alter’s Gem Jewelry

• Beaumont Children’s Museum

• BISD

• Centerstage Fitness

• Dana Johnson Team- RE/MAX One

• Exygon Health & Fitness Club

• iRule Dance Studio

• Jonathan Wyman, CPA

• Lamar University

• Mariposa School of Dance

• STRUTZ Fitness

• Victores Dentistry

• Zandy Zoos

Tea Do

Rebecca Hudson

Anna Papa

Jen Phelan

Lauren Thieme

10 YEARS WITH JLB

Celebrating 10 Years of Service with the Junior League of Beaumont! Join us in celebrating a decade of incredible dedication from our amazing members who have reached this incredible milestone with the Junior League of Beaumont.

Stephanie Cassels * Tea Do

Christi Grudier

Jen Phelan

Lauren Thieme

Amanda Yarbrough

* 5 years with JLB but 13 years with Junior League. She started in 2011 in Lufkin.

Maegan Collins

Mallory Cross

Brieann Edwards

Kellsey Fairchild

Amanda Gardner

Sharita Gardner

LaSan Gilder

5 YEARS WITH JLB

Congratulations to our incredible fiveyear members of the Junior League! We celebrate the dedication, passion, and hard work of those who have been with us for five remarkable years. Your commitment to serving our community and making a difference has been inspiring to us all.

Erin Godina

Courtney Hooker

Kristen Ritter

Rebecca Tatum

Margaret Victores

Courtney White

Ashley Willis

It is with sincere regret that the League offers condolences to the following families & JLB members:

Sympathies to Sustainer Amelie Cobb on the loss of her son, Thomas Hart Cobb. Sympathies to Sustainer Christine Darling on the loss of her Mother in Law, Jeanelda Darling.