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October – November 2009
our mission The Junior League of San Antonio, Inc., is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
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president’s view
editor’s note By Paige Bitter
I am thankful for Wonder Women “I am fairly certain that given a cape and a nice tiara, I could save the world.” This fabulous and fun quote was shared with me by my good friend and JLSA sustainer, Barbara Mohs. If you know Barbara, you can totally see her wearing a cape and her JLSA tiara as she goes through her day working, taking care of her family, and generally making a difference in the lives of others.
board of directors Anna-Melissa Cavazos President Cathy Scanlon President-Elect Anne Ahlschwede Treasurer Cynthia Kerby Board Secretary Traci Meadows Membership Development Council Chair Lesley Vernor Community Council Chair Stacy Foerster Planning Council Chair Amy Smith Fund Development Council Chair Melissa Unsell Communications Council Chair Debbie Callihan Treasurer-Elect Lisa Ebrom Research and Development Chair Judy Juarez Placement Committee Chair Debbie Strus Board Member-at-Large Amber Japhet Assistant to the President Misty Kelley Bylaws Committee Chair/Parliamentarian Laura Peel Nominating Chair Pamela Toman Signature Project Chair Susan Nelson Sustaining Advisor Denise Reams White Managing Director
office staff contact info Denise Reams White Managing Director 210-225-1861 ext 302, denise@jlsa.org Carol Sheridan Financial Administrator 210-225-1861 ext 301, carol@jlsa.org Megan Galloway Membership Program Administrator 210-225-1861 ext 300 megan@jlsa.org The Junior League of San Antonio, Inc. 723 Brooklyn Avenue San Antonio, Texas 78215 Phone: 210-225-1861 Fax: 210-225-6832 Email: info@jlsa.org Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
I believe this quote also describes you – the Junior League member who gives of her time and talents to build a better community. You do this in so many different ways throughout your League service. Our League would not have been a powerful force in our community for 85 years – nor would it continue to be – without you. The results from the membership survey that members took this summer will be shared with you at our October general meeting. The information you gave us about who the JLSA is today are fascinating. Basically, we are busy women! This information will help in identifying and developing our JLSA brand for today and beyond, as well as allow us to better serve you, the member. I hope you will come to the meeting to hear more about our plans. October also is the month we have all been waiting for… it’s time to shop Holiday Olé! What wonder women the entire Holiday Olé committee members have been this year. You don’t want to miss this chance to bring friends, family, and co-workers to this shopping extravaganza that we can all be proud of because of what it does for our community. It’s not just about the shopping but about the positive community change the event provides. I encourage you to attend one of our November in-home meetings at a sustainer’s home. Our sustainers are wonderful women who allow us to host a meeting each year in their homes. This allows for smaller group meetings and discussion. The topics for the November meetings include the internal branding plan and future fundraising opportunities, and your feedback on these topics is not only encouraged but necessary. Don’t miss your chance to speak out! I loved Wonder Woman growing up: from the Barbie doll I had that looked like Lynda Carter to the TV show to the Halloween costume. She was so interesting to me because of how she could do all she did and still look good! We all know Wonder Women, and one of my favorites is my mother, who has always been a busy woman herself - working, raising a family, and volunteering. I learned from her the value of helping others, because amidst all of the many things on our to-do lists, when given the opportunity to be a superhero to someone else, the value is beyond measure. Thank you for being Wonder Women building a better San Antonio community! Authentically yours,
Anna-Melissa Cavazos JLSA, Inc., President, 2009-10
What a difference a month makes! September brought much needed rain and an end to the 100-degree heat wave, and for the JLSA, Inc., the “new year” officially began at our first general meeting. October promises to be full of excitement as well with Holiday Olé Marketplace right around the corner! In this issue of Scrawls, we are delighted to showcase some of the work of our League Historian, Rory Siefer, who is compiling fascinating profiles of our members. You will also learn more about the exciting and extensive work accomplished by Literacy San Antonio, our Signature Project. And who wants to know the results of the Metropolitan Opera Auditions? You are in luck! We hope you are enjoying the new look of Scrawls and always welcome your input and suggestions. Enjoy this issue, and get your shopping shoes ready for Holiday Olé!
Our Community Partners The Junior League of San Antonio, Inc. is proud to partner with over 60 agencies annually. Alamo Area Rape Crisis Center Alpha Home Alzheimer's Association American Cancer Society American Diabetes Association American Heart Association Audubon Texas/Mitchell Lake Audubon Center Bexar County Family Justice Center Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas Boysville, Inc. Cancer Center Council Child Abuse Prevention Services Child Advocates of San Antonio Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas Children's Shelter of San Antonio ChildSafe The Christian Senior Services Cibolo Nature Center Dress for Success San Antonio Elf Louise Christmas Project Family Service Association Family Violence Prevention Services Friends of the Parks Girls Inc. Goodwill of San Antonio Habitat for Humanity Hawthorne Elementary (Reading Camp) Healthy Families San Antonio Healy-Murphy Center Kendall County Women’s Shelter KLRN Leading for Reading – Victor Ferrari Center Leukemia Lymphoma Society Main Plaza Conservancy March of Dimes
McNay Art Museum Metropolitan Opera Northeast San Antonio Community Outreach Northeast Senior Assistance Pearl Brewery – Kids in the Kitchen Positive Beginnings, Inc. Prevent Blindness Rainbow House Reach Out and Read Rebuilding Together for Christmas in April Ronald McDonald House Roy Maas' Youth Alternatives, Inc. SAMM Shelter San Antonio Botanical Garden San Antonio Eye Bank San Antonio Family Endeavors San Antonio Fighting Back San Antonio Food Bank San Antonio Kids Exchange San Antonio Museum of Art San Antonio River Foundation San Antonio Sports Foundation San Antonio Youth Literacy Seton Home SNIPSA South Texas Amateur Athletic Association Southwest Mental Health Center SPCA St. Peter/St. Joseph Children's Home St. Paul's Episcopal Montessori School Sunshine Cottage Texas Organ Sharing Alliance Unicorn Center Various Nursing Homes Vital Alliance Youth Orchestra of San Antonio
Table of Contents Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Met Opera National Council – Southwest Region Auditions (MONC) Signature Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Mayor Castro signs Literacy Declaration Fundraising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 Holiday Olé Marketplace information and list of Merchants Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14 Membership Profiles – Shannon Nisbet and Amy Dunn Smith Transfer Spotlight – Annie Kearney “Be” Awards JLSA Kids Say the Darndest Things Special Events – Lilly Pulitzer at the Shops at La Cantera Corresponding Secretary Report Sustainer Report 09-10 JLSA Annual Fund Campaign AMIGOS JLSA Bookclub Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Your League, Your Vote News & Announcements . . . . . . . 15 Flavors Recipe Dates to Remember
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community Local Singer Shares Honors at Metropolitan Opera Southwest Region Auditions
signature project Mayor Castro Signs Literacy Declaration
By Heather Welder Russo, Met Opera Publicity Chair With voices lifted in song, dreams took a step toward reality at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Southwest Region Auditions on September 26 and 27 at Saint Mary's Hall. For the 51st consecutive year, gracious volunteers of the JLSA, Inc., worked with the Metropolitan Opera National Council (MONC) to help aspiring opera singers pursue their dream of singing on the stage of the Met in New York City. Local University of Texas at San Antonio student, Rafael Moras, 22, a tenor from San Antonio, tied for first place with Rena Harms, 25, a soprano from Cerrillos, New Mexico. Both will represent the Southwest Region at the National Semifinals in New York. Finalists from that competition will compete in the Grand Finals on March 14, 2010, in New York City. (Many may remember Rafael serenading JLSA members at the first general meeting in September. Now you can say that you knew him when!) The competition began on Saturday morning when 34 promising opera singers arrived for the preliminary auditions. These operatic hopefuls performed before four nationally renowned opera judges who singled out seven to advance to the Regional Finals on Sunday. The finalists sang before a full auditorium, with the crowd jumping to its feet as the winners were announced. Andrew Darling, a baritone from McKinney, Texas, took second place, and
By Kimberly Archer, Literacy San Antonio Marketing and PR Lead
Tyson Miller, a tenor from Belton, Texas, received the Encouragement Award. Judges for this year’s competition were John Baril, Music Director of Central City Opera in Colorado; Jonathan Dudley, a distinguished vocal coach in New York City; and Gayletha Nichols, Executive Director of the MONC. Singers were accompanied by Richard Bado, Chorus Master of the Houston Grand Opera and Director of Opera Studies at Rice University. Emcee was Mark Richter, Founder and Artistic Director of the San Antonio Opera.
Literacy leaders convened from across the nation this summer at the Right to Literacy convention in Buffalo, New York. The need was clear: tens of millions of adults and children do not have the skills necessary to succeed in life. Literacy is the number one tool to change that plight, and the right to literacy must be a national priority. Such resolutions support five pillars of literacy:
economic development,” he said. Literacy San Antonio and all of its community partners are excited to be working with Mayor Castro. Effective change requires participation from ALL members of the community. We hope that all San Antonio residents will collaborate and use the Literacy San Antonio resources for advancing literacy.
1. Building the Community 2. Strengthening the Family
For those wondering how the JLSA became involved in this prestigious event, it all began with Mrs. Edgar Tobin (known as “Mag”), a lifetime member of the JLSA. Mrs. Tobin was able to secure the Metropolitan Opera auditions for San Antonio by combining her love for the opera, her strong belief in volunteerism, and her association as a founding member of MONC. The JLSA is recognized as the only Junior League in the nation involved in supporting the auditions program. The JLSA’s Metropolitan Opera Auditions Committee would like to thank all those who contributed their time and hospitality toward making this year’s event such a welcoming and successful event for the singers, the professional panel, and the audience.
Left: The 2009 Met Opera Southwest Region Finalists (l to r): Soonchan Kwon, Ellie Jarrett, Gabriel Preisser, Tyson Miller (Encouragement Award), Andrew Darling (Second Place), Rena Harms and Rafael Moras (tied for First Place).
3. Ensuring Self-Determination 4. Improving the Workforce 5. Transforming the Literacy System The Declaration for Literacy (written at the convention) proclaims that all Americans have a right to literacy and calls on communities and leaders in all sectors to work together to expand literacy in the United States. Convention delegates concluded that to ensure prosperity for the nation and self-determination for the individual, changes at the national, regional and local level must take place. San Antonio’s Mayor Julian Castro was the first mayor to sign the Declaration for Literacy. “I didn’t sign the Declaration to be the first to do so. I signed it because I believe the destiny of every city is tied to the education of its workforce,” Castro explained. He also emphasized the connection between literacy and a strong economy. “As mayor of San Antonio, I see the connection between an educated populace and a strong workforce, and the city’s ability to attract future
September was National Literacy Month and monumental events were held throughout San Antonio and across the country to raise the importance of literacy and the progress being made towards significantly and permanently addressing illiteracy. Mayor Julian Castro was the first mayor to sign the Declaration for Literacy.
Below: Singers await the District results in the Hospitality Room, graciously coordinated by the JLSA, Inc., volunteers.
Mayor Castro joined members of the Literacy San Antonio Coalition in their last planning meeting to deliver a Community Literacy Plan for San Antonio.
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fundraising
fundraising Holiday Olé Marketplace Merchants All Star Dips – Gourmet/spices for dips, spreads, and dressings. Dip chillers to keep dips cold or hot.
Heart 2 Heart – Gifts and accessories for women and home.
Pink Armadillos – Features hip and cool “Mom” clothes and accessories. We also have great teacher gifts!
Amy B’s – Unique, trendy, “in style” women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. We have the hot looks from the east to the west coast!
Holifield Designs – Unique, hand-designed, and oneof-a-kind accessories for the individual and for the home.
Pollonia Imports – Beautiful hand-painted pottery from Poland that is as functional as decorative.
Hollywood Ranch, The – Uniquely designed and monogrammed children’s apparel.
Posh Couture for Kids & Moms – Adorable clothing, gifts and accessories for infants and children.
Home Fields, Inc. – 3-D replica football/baseball stadiums and NASCAR tracks.
Puppies and Pigtails –Children’s custom, one-of-akind clothing.
If These Walls Could Talk – Custom-designed, beautiful home décor to adorn the walls in your home.
Richard Lindsay Designs – Classic American jewelry with a touch of the New West. Gold, silver and precious stones.
anniegogglyn – anniegogglyn, a trendy women’s/girl’s boutique from Alamo Heights featuring clothing and accessories from the hottest L.A. brands! B.K. Swaze – Fun selection of spooky Halloween items, tin ceiling panels, seasonal wreaths, garlands, candlesticks, and other home décor. Bath Junkie, La Cantera – Custom-blended bath products and bath accessories.
In-Courage – Fun, unique gifts for everyone in your family!
Bead Lady Boutique, The – A true ladies’ boutique with a bedazzlement of accessories and gifts that are fashion forward and appealing to all. Uniquely hand-created wire-wrapped serving pieces and household gift items.
Just Kidds & More – Unique children’s clothing and accessories to make your angels look heavenly!
Beijo Bags – Designer handbags and accessories.
The 16th Annual Holiday Olé Marketplace is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for October 21-24, gather your friends, and reserve your tickets for a wonderful shopping experience. In addition to featuring 80 unique merchants, this year’s marketplace offers new and amazing special events, as well as a new way to commemorate your Holiday Olé experience. Holiday Olé Marketplace is rich in history, and, for the first time, it’s being captured with a special edition ornament. The ornament features an exclusive Christopher Radko design for JLSA’s 85th anniversary, and can be purchased on the JLSA, Inc., website. This is the first installment in a planned annual ornament series, so don’t miss your chance to claim a piece of Holiday Olé history!
Bless Your Heart Giftique – Girly and fabulous jewelry, clothes,Yellow Box shoes and gifts, all at a glorious price! Bombat Washer Co. – Washer games (collegiate and non-collegiate) – Texas-sized fun for the entire family! Boy Howdy Boytique –Classic toys, gifts, and décor for the boys and young men in your life. Buckle It – Custom, one-of-a-kind belt buckles and accessories made to fit everyone’s unique style. Bunnies and Bows – Whimsical, collegiate and Greek pillowcases, toddler pillows, night-shirts, and tooth pillows all personalized on site! Charissa Seipp Interiors – One-of-a-kind design swags & wreaths for your home.
New members create decorations for our Holiday Olé Marketplace.
Holiday Olé Marketplace shopping hours Holiday Olé Marketplace 2009 features Special Events On Wednesday, October 21, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m., enjoy VIP shopping with an Olé attitude at the Preview Party. Tickets include wine, beer, margaritas, and delicious Latin-themed appetizers. There will also be a “Lost Husband’s Lounge,” great music, a not-to-be missed silent auction, a chance to win one of five $1000 shopping sprees at Lee Michaels jewelry, glass signing by Lolita, plus many more surprises! This event is sponsored by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Silver Eagle Distributors, GLI and Azul Margarita. Tickets are $50 each or two for $90. Don’t miss this premiere Holiday Olé event! Follow a great night of fun with private shopping Thursday morning at Ready, Set, Shop! presented by Frost Bank. Held from 9 a.m. until noon, tickets include a continental breakfast and Holiday Olé mimosas. Purchase your “Holiday Gold” box presented by The Capital Group for an exclusive opportunity to receive special merchant discounts. Glassware artist, Lolita, will also be available to sign her beautiful creations. Tickets are $35 per person.
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Thursday, October 22
Noon – 8 p.m.
Friday, October 23
9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, October 24
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for a single-day admission and $12 for a multi-day ticket. Be sure to take advantage of the special earlypurchase discounts available until October 17. Remember, special event tickets can also be used for admission to Holiday Olé during market shopping hours. Please visit www.jlsa.org for additional information on Holiday Olé Marketplace shopping hours, merchants and ticket prices. Members must purchase their tickets online before October 18 in order to receive fundraising credit. Holiday Olé Marketplace is YOUR event. This is your chance to have fun and shop our amazing merchants, all while supporting the community programs and projects of the League. The Holiday Olé Marketplace Committee is looking forward to seeing you October 21 through 24.
Cherchies Specialty Foods – Specialty food products to satisfy everyone’s palate. Including: Soups, Chowders, Bisque, Mustards, Preserves, Hot Pepper Jellies, Seasonings and Seasoned Pretzels and Peanuts. Company’s Comin’ – Gourmet soups, casseroles, dips, and cheese ball mixes. Cookie Jar Bakery & Gifts, The – Sweet and savory treats, cookie jars, cookie cutters, cookbooks, baking tools, and ceramic gifts. Cowgirl Junkie – Funkiness and style for your home or fashion fix! Crooked Antler, The – Over-the-top holiday and gift items! Davis Mountains Nut Co. – Gourmet nuts and gift baskets. Discovery Toys –Developmental , educational games, toys and books for children of all ages. Safe and fun! Ellie Lance – Charming your memories with fashion accessories for everyone on your gift list. Farm Divas, The – Custom art pendants, jewelry, tees, gifts, and such. Farm junque that is vintage inspired. Fiddlin Frogs – Furniture, Fashion and Frills! French Farm, The – Gourmet products and gifts imported from Europe. Funshine Music & Prints – Personalized CDs and full color prints make YOU the STAR! Our fun gifts are for children AND adults! Gift Solution – Unique women’s clothing, accessories and Yellow Box shoes. Always your favorites at the Gift Solution!
Kathy Tobler Silver – Lovely American sterling silver from the late 1800’s to 2009. We are passionate about silver!
Rusty Bucket, The – Unique European new and vintage finds for your home. Seasons Best – The Velvet Hanger – Wearable art and treasures. Shop ‘Til U Drop –Today’s women’s trends!
Kelly’s Closet – Exciting and fun clothing, gifts, and accessories.
Simply Home Design –Shabby chic picture frames and magnet boards to add a dramatic statement to any room of your home.
Leighelena – A full line of handmade enameled accessories and jewelry.
Sporting Traditions – Unique men’s gifts – hunting and fishing accessories, sports memorabilia and sporting art.
Leslie & Co. – Come enjoy gifts, home décor, floral, fall and holiday decorations including Old World Christmas. Limoges Lady, The – Authentic hand-painted porcelain Limoges boxes imported from France. Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics – Fun, fresh, new and amazingly fragrant goodies for bath, body, hair and skin. Lynette’s Closet – Celebrate “girl power” with sassy clothing, fun and funky jewels, and lots of fabulous finds! Marnie Rocks – Lifestyle brand for stylish, discerning women across the country. M.D. Anderson Children’s Art Project – Cards and gifts featuring designs created by pediatric patients from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Mi Casa Tamales – Homemade Texas-sized tamales made with fresh spices. Mexican imports and gifts. Mills Gourmet – A beautiful array of soups, pepper jellies, mulling spice, cheese balls, etc. All reasonably priced. Minky Dink Designs – We design and manufacture in Texas and sell the softest standard/travel pillowcases, throws, and other gift items. Monogrammed Gifts – Personalized accessories such as mirrored compacts, pillboxes, card cases and much more! Moonpie & Felicity Rose – Uniquely fun handbags and jewelry. Nancy’s Gifts and Children’s Wear – Unique clothing and accessories for children. Nari Nari – Exotic accessories and fabulous finds from Nepal – women’s wraps. Nutcracker Lady, The – Large collection of wooden nutcrackers, ornaments, wreaths and other nutcracker accessories. Out On A Whim – Fun, funky holiday and gift items. Pandora de Balthazar – Antique linens, goose down pillows, duvets and spa items. Paper and Polka Dots.com – Fun, whimsical and unique selections of baby and children’s gifts, accessories, clothing, shoes and toys.
Sportschest, L.L.C. – Male gifts presented in a festive collegiate atmosphere. Star Bar Design/Blends – Fabulous home décor, furniture and decorative pieces. Fresh, exciting, one-of-akind jewelry designs. Stella & Dot –Celebrity-coveted, fashion-editoradored, couture design jewelry. Affordable luxury at its best! Stephen’s of Colorado – Stephen is a designer of distinctive outerwear and accessories – gloves, hats, shawls, wraps, vests and jackets. Discover why many dignitaries and celebrities wear Stephen’s designs. Talaya’s Collection – Designers of the “Scripture Jewelry” featured in Texas Monthly. Fine sterling and 14K gold for both women and children. Texas Photomontage – Prints and 3-D artwork of vintage signs and landmarks of San Antonio and other Texas cities. TK Imports –Copper art, plates, vases, and sinks. Italian pottery and home décor. Under Wraps – Designer gift wrap, gable-style boxes and coordinated gift wrapping accessories at or below wholesale. Unruly Girls Club – Gotta see! Ritzy junk, bling-in wearable art and jewelry. Find the “Jezebel” in you! Wash Tub Boutique – Latest fall fashions and accessories, beautiful home décor and great gifts for all. Where’d Ya Get That? – Baubles and bibs to sassy digs…the latest trends for women and children. Wildgoose Mfg, Mail Order & Gallery Store – Luggage, leather goods, wildlife art, knives, antler décor, hand-carved boxes, fossil platters and bowls. Gifts for men and women. William K. Stidham – The Sacred Heart Series – Iconic paintings of people who have shifted the planet with Heart Energy! Wine Delites – Packaged drink mix for your blender, makes a frozen wine drink. 3 flavors and free samples! Wiseman House Chocolate – Fine handmade chocolates including truffles, almond toffee, bark, mocha crunch and sipping chocolate.
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membership Membership Profile By Rory Siefer, JLSA Historian
Working with the Family Service Association
Shannon Nisbet “As a little girl I realized that if I’m here taking up space in this world, then I need to take this chance to make a positive difference.”
Best JLSA Project: Summer Camp at Boysville Favorite Family Meal: Pork Tenderloin
Advice to New Members and New Actives
Status: Sustainer Resident Favorite Restaurant: Teka Molino As a child I wanted to be a... doctor
Self-proclaimed outspoken, sarcastic, funny, and all-around classy woman, Shannon Nisbet is making a major impact on our San Antonio Community, and I for one was glad to get the chance to hear her best stories. As a fifth generation South Texan, Shannon grew up with volunteering in her blood. Her mother, sisters, and aunts were all a part of the Junior League of San Antonio, so it was only natural that she too would join – it was family tradition. “Back then the Provisional Class was required to come to the Bright Shawl every Wednesday afternoon and waitress for the Rotary Club. That’s where I met my best friends Betsy and Janet, cutting limes and lemons, and being a waitress. So no complaints from the incoming provisional class!”
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF SAN ANTONIO
“Even though I was somehow voted ‘Most likely to send my child to boarding school’ in college, I have to say that being a mother is one of the most life-changing jobs I’ve ever had!” JLSA Provisional Year: 1999 Status: Active Elite Favorite Flower: Iris As a child I wanted to be a... teacher Best JLSA Project: SA Works Favorite Family Meal: Stuffed Bell Peppers Favorite Colors: Purple & Red
Moving the Nisbet Home to the Bright Shawl When I asked Shannon which project at the Junior League had been most difficult for her, she responded without hesitation, “Moving my father-in-law’s office building to become the new Junior League headquarters!” Now how many of you have walked past those offices and wondered the history behind them? Well I’m happy to report that the building has a story too. Shannon was a big part of the installation and renovation of her father-in-law’s old office building, to help make a headquarters for the Junior League. While they did run into snag after snag, there was great satisfaction when the project was finally complete, and still to this day she is proud of their work.
JLSA Provisional Year: 1979
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Shannon was born with a heart defect and had a very close call as a young child. Ever since that event she’s felt deep down in her heart that she is here to make the world a better place, in any way she can. She has spent over 18 years with the Family Service Association here in San Antonio and the development work she does there is phenomenal. In the past year alone they served over 50,000 South Texas families. One special holiday project helps supply over 3,000 people in need with clothing, beds, and household items. Shannon wanted to make sure that these kids get the chance to feel special for at least that one day a year. Don’t miss out on finding out more about her work there: www.family-service.org.
membership Membership Profile Amy Dunn Smith
Shannon believes that the League gave her the chance to hear different viewpoints and, in a way, broaden her horizons. Her advice to the “newbies” of the bunch is to, “Investigate all the League has to offer. The Junior League is a vehicle to let you make a difference in the community, so take advantage of this chance, and find a way to help someone in need.” Shannon has promised more, “off the record stories,” if I take her out for a glass of wine, so maybe I’ll have more events to share. In closing I’d like to share her answer to my last question, “If you had one wish, what would it be?”
“I would like for all people to treat one another with the respect and dignity that they deserve - no matter what walk of life you come from.”
Choir, ROTC, and Art History. Though these three activities don’t seem to immediately go together, I learned that in Amy Smith’s past, they have all played an important role in what she does today both professionally and personally. Amy and I sat down for lunch at Canyon Café this week, and I had a chance to learn about her experiences with life, the League, and creating a balance with newborn baby boy Joaquin, or “Quino” for short.
Music and Lullabies Born and raised in Dallas, Amy attended Trinity University to focus on Art History and Business. While at Trinity she also continued her music and voice lessons (and yes, her claim to fame on the stage was a chance to be the Spirit of Christmas Past in her Junior High play). Amy still enjoys singing, but now focuses on lullabies for Quino. She loves her new role as a mom and tells me that her greatest challenge for the upcoming year will be balancing her position as JLSA Fund Development Chair and having a little one. But from everything I’ve learned about her background in Development, we couldn’t have found a better expert!
the Alamo Heights Foundation, where she helps raise money for the public schools in Alamo Heights. She’s looking forward to their 2009 Centennial Celebration. “Maybe because I wanted to be a teacher when I was little, but I get great satisfaction out of keeping the wonderful teachers around in our schools and making sure they get paid well!”
The Arts Amy met the love of her life, Thomas, while working her very first job out of college, at the Witte Museum. She noticed a cute guy in the exhibits division and they’ve been together eversince. It was at the Witte that she first got her feet wet in the world of development and hasn’t looked back since. “When I first took a position in the development office of the Witte, I didn’t even know what it was. Now, after over 12 years in the industry, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”
League Memories Amy decided to join the Junior League in 1999 because she believes that those of us who have been blessed should take the time to give back to the community. She has fond memories of working at the Rummage Warehouse during her provisional year, with a cooler of beer in tow, and wants all of us to remember that we can serve and have fun at the same time! In closing, Amy challenges the incoming provisional class to,
Discipline and Work in Development Amy’s experiences in high school ROTC helped her immensely when she accepted a position in Development at San Antonio Academy from 1998-2005. Amy’s work in San Antonio has included the National MS Society, SAMMinistries, the San Antonio Symphony, and now she is the Executive Director of
“Overcome the initial fear of getting involved and jump into anything that sounds interesting. While there is a set list of activities for you to complete this first year, look at them as a chance to have fun and enjoy the experience, because it will be over in no time.” WOMEN BUILDING BETTER COMMUNITIES 9
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membership Transfer Spotlight: Annie Kearney My husband's name is Rock (which is an old Irish family name) and he also happens to be my best friend, which is great! We have an adorable Cocker Spaniel named Jake that is just a wonderful pet, and he travels with us as much as possible. We moved from Connecticut because we wanted to be near my family and decided snow was a lot more fun to visit than to live with for the winter season. I originally joined the Junior League in Arlington, TX, with a group of girls that I went to Baylor with because we thought it would be fun to tackle our provisional year as a team, and it was fun! I am excited about being a member of the Junior League of San Antonio because I spent my youth in this city (I am proud to say I was an Alamo Heights Mule!) and look forward to being involved in a community that shaped my life. I am so glad to be surrounded by smart, spirited women with a purpose!
“Be” Awards – Looking for Our “Extraordinary” Members Do you know a member who deserves to be recognized for her commitment and dedication to the JLSA and community at large? Then nominate her to be recognized in the Scrawls and at general meetings for the “Be Authentic, Be Extraordinary” awards each month. Send your recommendations to president@jlsa.org with a brief description of why she deserves this “shout-out.” The following members have made an "Authentic & Extraordinary" commitment to the mission of JLSA over the past few months and have been recognized by their peers. Thank you! Jenny Fish Cathy Fullen Shannon Jenn Celina Montoya Marissa Nicholas Candy Nichols Miles Payne Molly Salmon Melissa Unsell Lesley Vernor
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membership Special Events JLSA, Inc., had its first special event of the 2009-2010 year at Lilly Pulitzer at the Shops at La Cantera. The event was a huge success! Lilly Pulitzer donated 10% of all purchases from that evening to the League. We were able to raise over $650! Thank you to all that came out. Be on the lookout for more special events coming up!
JLSA Kids Say the Darndest Things! My son Colin (6), while changing his shirt said, “Mom, don’t look at my nickels.” – Crystal Fuller
When my daughter Carolyn was two-years-old, she called me Amy instead of Mom. My husband asked her if she knew his first name and she said, “Honey.” – Amy Blake Our five-year-old, Gavin, has a funny habit of turning statements into questions by adding "right?" to the end of sentences. After a LONG weekend of non-stop questions, my husband informed him that there are other ways to form a question. Gavin took a moment to think about that and said, "Should I say left instead?" – Cameron Armstrong
Corresponding Secretary Report
October – November 2009
Transferred In
Resignation
Status Change
Jenine Stevenson (A) Rebecca Berry (A) Holly Pirruccello (A) Terri LaTourette (S)
Katie Rose Gloyna (A) Carol Hale (A) Gale Gregory-Laine (S) Kristen Werkowitch (A) Elizabeth Braden (A) Patricia Oliver (A) Allison Amato (A) Maria Resendiz (A) Keri Barth (A)
Madelon Highsmith (A to S) Chandler Renner (A to S) Elizabeth Grasso (A to ANR) Katya Buck (A to ANR) Jill Rabago (A to ANR)
Reinstatement Cynthia Robinson (S) Katherine Ingram (S) Kristal Statler (A) Dale Jacklyn (A)
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membership Sustainer Report • On September 24 the annual Sustainer Luncheon was held at the Bright Shawl. Each year this luncheon is a wonderful opportunity for sustainers to socialize, and this year was no different. At the luncheon, JLSA, Inc., honored our Sustainer Emeritus members for their dedication and long-term service to JLSA and the city of San Antonio. We also welcomed the dynamic and entertaining author and speaker Louise Parsley. Ms. Parsley is the author of “Revelations in a Rearview Mirror: One Mother’s Hard-Won and Hilarious Epiphanies on the Road to the Empty Nest.” The Sustainer Luncheon was a wonderful kick-off to this year’s events for sustaining members.
Our “Sustainer Emeritus” members at the Sustainer Luncheon
JLSA Past Presidents at the Sustainer Luncheon
• Calling all Sustainer Transfers: S.T.U.F.F. (Sustaining Transfers United For Fun) wants you! Join us October 10 for “a Day in Luling.” Enjoy tours of the Oil Museum and Zelder Mill, a lunch of fabulous Luling barbeque, as well as time to spare for shopping. Then next month we will curl up with a good book (“Saturday” by Ian McEwan) and get ready for a spirited S.T.U.F.F. Book Club discussion on November 10. Finally, get in the holiday spirit on December 8 as we gather at Club Girard for cocktails and dinner. Guests of S.T.U.F.F. members are always welcome! Contact a S.T.U.F.F. co-chair for more information:Virginia Hartz (210-8328993, virginiahartz@aol.com) or Cathy Burton (210-785-9253, ccburton@aol.com).
• Sustainer Community Service Project - Let’s roll up our sleeves and help those in need! This year is our first annual Sustainer Community Project. On Saturday, November 14, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., we will work with the San Antonio chapter of Dress for Success to redecorate their dressing rooms. Everyone can contribute, by either donating items for decorating the dressing rooms (pillows, drapes, pictures, comfortable chairs, accent tables, etc.), or signing up for an hour-long work shift. To RSVP for the project please contact Mitra Woody, Sustainer Liaison at 210-8525376, or sustainer@jlsa.org. • The holidays are right around the corner, so mark your calendars for our annual riverboat tour on Thursday, December 3. More information to follow. To RSVP for the riverboat tour, please contact Mitra Woody, Sustainer Liaison at 210-8525376, or sustainer@jlsa.org.
2009-2010 JLSA Annual Fund Campaign Off to a Great Start by Jennifer Dewar, Annual Fund Chair
The Junior League of San Antonio, Inc., officially kicked-off the 2009-2010 Annual Fund Campaign during our September general meeting. Our campaign goal this year is to raise $50,000, with 100% League participation at any level. The Annual Fund supports the effective actions of trained volunteers in the San Antonio community. Rising to the challenge of addressing the evolving needs of our community is the forefront of the JLSA mission. Gifts to the Annual Fund have a direct impact on our over 40 community partner agencies. This year, JLSA, Inc., will strive to expand our volunteer workforce through recruitment and volunteer engagement, improve the management of assets that contribute to our mission, and extend support to new community partners to further our impact on building a better San Antonio. Through the generosity of donors, the Junior League of San Antonio’s Annual Fund provides essential support to our pro-
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grams, training and operational costs. The Annual Fund gives donors the opportunity to contribute directly to the League's programs and other support needs. Dues alone cannot fund the impact we have in the community today. Please consider the impact your donation has within the JLSA. Giving Circle Levels (revised) Up to $99 Supporter $100-$249 Friend of the Junior League of San Antonio $250-$499 Bright Shawl Society $500-$999 Leadership Society $1,000+ Founders Society To donate, visit the webpage at www.jlsa.org and click on the Annual Fund logo. Thanks for making a difference in our community!
membership AMIGOS:
A Mission In Giving Others Support
Welcome Little Leaguers! • Shandelle Girdley and her family welcomed Drew Daniel Girdley on May 26, 2009. He arrived at 7 lb., 4 oz. • Kerri Hoermann and her family welcomed Wilkes Christian Hoermann on July 24, 2009. He arrived at 7 lb., 7.5 oz. • Catherine Bell and her family welcomed William "Clayton" Bell on July 28, 2009. He arrived at 4 lb., 9.1 oz. • Catie Eastland and her family welcomed Charles Allen (Charlie) Eastland on July 30, 2009. He arrived at 8 lb., 5 oz. • Judi Travis and her family welcomed Ainsley Tully Travis on July 31, 2009. She arrived at 7 lb., 7 oz. • Sheri Best and her family welcomed Cade Andrew Best on August 25, 2009. He arrived at 6 lb., 13 oz. • Sarah Hardin and her family welcomed Gregory Tucker Hardin on August 27, 2009. He arrived at 7 lb., 7 oz. • Christina Martin and her family welcomed Augustus “Gus” Martin on September 15, 2009. He arrived at 8 lb., 4 oz.
Engagements Kathe Rohlfs to Hughes Welder in July 2009.
AMIGOS Who We Are: A committee of women who are here to support, encourage, and congratulate the lives and times of our JLSA, Inc., sisters.
What We Do: We send announcements, congratulations, assistance, and sympathies to our JLSA, Inc., sisters when they need us.
What You Can Do:
Lorien Little and Marc Whyte on April 22, 2009, in Punta Mita, Mexico.
Contact us when you learn about events that affect our members’ lives, such as births, engagements, marriages, illnesses, and deaths. We will reach out and help or celebrate accordingly.
Emily Seale to Gordon Buescher on August 15, 2009.
Contacts:
Weddings
Deaths Maurine Sasser Hausser (Sustainer) - February 11, 2009 . Barbara Loffland Middleton (Sustainer) - August 29, 2008.
Email: amigos@jlsa.org • Linda Molina, lindamolina@satx.rr.com 210-857-1557 • Marquel McCabe, marquelmccabe@yahoo.com 210-883-6954 You can also view our webpage at www.jlsa.org under Member Resources to learn more about us.
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membership Read with the
JLSA Book Club
communications News and Announcements
Recipe from Flavors Cookbook
October: “Same Kind of Different As Me” by Ron Hall, Denver Moore, & Lynn Vincent. Discussion on October 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Bravo! in The Shops at La Cantera.
November: “Forever Fatal” by Nancy Glass West (a JLSA sustainer). Discussion on November 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Mon Thai, 4901 Broadway. Nancy will be there to sign your books and discuss her novel. Everyone is welcome at JLSA Book Club events! Simply RSVP for book discussions to Christie Fryatt (christiefryatt@gmail.com). No long-term commitments necessary – just come and enjoy!
communications Your League, Your Voice By Melissa Unsell, Communications Council Chair
“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” – Rollo May We can transcend to new heights by mastering the art of communication and the breadth of communication streams available to us. I encourage you to think about how you communicate with others about the League. Do you share the positive impact you make in your local community? Do you invite others to explore our events, such as the Met Opera Southwest Regional Finals, Holiday Olé Marketplace, or Rummage Around Shopping Day at Goodwill? Think about the available avenues to communicate the impact you have on the League and to inspire others to make an impact in the local community. In the last issue, I invited you to join us on Twitter and Facebook. If you have yet to join us on these sites, you can find the links on our home page: www.jlsa.org. Social Media is quite the buzz at the moment and the Communications Council has adopted a social media policy to help you appropriately promote the League and to educate you on our existing social media sites. You may access this file by logging on to the website and visiting the Member Resources page. I encourage you to use this avenue of communication to re-
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tweet or mention the Junior League of San Antonio, Inc., on Twitter, and to use the “share” feature on Facebook to post JLSA, Inc., items in your personal news feed for all of your friends to see. Imagine how we can expand our audience and educate thousands of people on our local endeavors! Feedback is also a vital component of communication. In August, we launched a member survey in which many of you provided important feedback about our organization. We value your opinion, and we want to learn why you value your Junior League membership. We thank you for taking a few moments to share your voice.
You’ll find below, just a few interesting survey results. Number of surveys completed: 516 67% of New Members are between ages 25-34 61% of Active Members are between ages 35-54 75% of our members work outside of the home
Spicy Okra Gumbo Goodwill Julia’s Attic Member Credits Any member who is volunteering for a Julia’s Attic shopping shift should view the volunteer guidelines now posted under the Goodwill tab on the website. Two key reminders: please wear your JLSA t-shirt and closed toe shoes. You also may not shop while working at the Goodwill store in which you are working per Goodwill’s corporate policy. Thank you for taking the time to make Julia’s Attic shine! • It’s not too early to turn in your Goodwill resale donations! Check our website (www.jlsa.org) under the Goodwill tab for resale donation guidelines and drop-off locations.
2 strips bacon, cut into pieces 1/2 medium onion, chopped 1 1/2 cups cut okra 1 tomato, chopped 1 5 1/2 ounce can tomato juice Salt and Pepper to taste 2 Tablespoons Pace Picante Sauce Sauté bacon in saucepan, add onions and cook until transparent. Add okra, tomato, tomato juice, salt, pepper and picante sauce. Reduce heat, cover and simmer about 15 minutes or until tender. Serves 4.
Legal committee members needed The JLSA, Inc., leadership is looking for a few good lawyers within our League who are willing to serve on a non-placed legal committee. From time to time, we have small contracts or items we need reviewed and would appreciate some pro bono support. If you are interested, please email president@jlsa.org
Enjoy over 400 pages of enticing recipes by purchasing a Flavors cookbook! Go to www.jlsa.org for purchasing information.
Dates to Remember October
November
8
7 9-14 14
Community Open House, 9 a.m. (Bright Shawl boardroom) 10 S.T.U.F.F. (Sustainer Transfers) “Day in Luling” 13 General Meeting, 7 p.m. (Bright Shawl) 21-24 Holiday Olé Marketplace 21 Holiday Olé Preview Party, 7 p.m. (Alzafar) 22 Ready, Set, Shop, 9 a.m. (Alzafar) 26 President’s Chat, 6 p.m. (Lion and Rose, Sonterra) 27 Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (Bright Shawl boardroom)
New Member Project (Unicorn Center) General Meetings (in Sustainer Homes) Sustainer Community Service Project, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Dress for Success) 17 Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. (Bright Shawl boardroom) 23 President’s Chat, 9 a.m. (La Madeleine, Park North) 26-27 JLSA Office closed for Thanksgiving Holiday
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The Junior League of San Antonio, Inc. 723 Brooklyn Avenue San Antonio, Texas 78215
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID SAN ANTONIO, TX PERMIT NO. 144