Announcing the First Annual...
FREE backpacks filled with school supplies, updated immunizations, dental screening, vision screening and haircuts will be available to Angelina County school-aged (Pre-K – 12) children, who qualify. Call Buckner Children’s & Family Services to pre-qualify: 936-637-3300. w w w. j u n i o r l e a g u e o f l u f k i n . o rg
T h e M o nt h ly M ag a z in e o f t h e W o m e n o f t h e J u n io r L e agu e o f Lu f k i n, Inc.
J U ly 2011 V o l. XV I , N o 133
ii July 2011
Vol. XVI No. 133
July 2011
■ ■ ■ M e e t i n G R e m i n d e r !
General Meeting Tuesday, September 13, 2011 Museum of East Texas Social time at 6:30 p.m. Meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.
Table of Contents Bulletin Board................................................................... 2 Leadership Lines............................................................... 3 May Celebration Meeting................................................. 4 Council Chat..................................................................... 5 Camp Get Fit/Kids in the Kitchen.................................... 6 Career Conference............................................................ 7 Helping Hands.................................................................. 8 Members in the Spotlight............................................... 10 Motivational Minute....................................................... 11 Provisional News............................................................ 12 Focus on the Community................................................ 13 Back to School Bonanza................................................. 14 A Walk Down Memory Lane.......................................... 15 Sustainer News............................................................... 16 Events & Birthday Calendar........................................... 17
The Board of Directors
Communications Council V. President Communications Mendi Brent Our View Editor Sharon Kruk Internal Public Relations/Website Elisabeth Grimes External Public Relations April Earley Photographer/Archivist Allison James
■ ■ ■ The Junior League of Lufkin P.O. Box 151812 Lufkin, Texas 75915-1812
■ ■ ■
JUNIOR LEAGUE w w w OF . j u nLUFKIN i o r l e a gINC. ueoflufkin.org Women building better communities R
President.......................................................... Jennifer Webster President-Elect....................................................... Marcy Weibe Secretary............................................................. Julianne Greak Treasurer........................................................... Michelle Haney VP Finance................................................................ Cindy Neal VP Communications..............................................Mendi Brent VP Membership........................................................Gina Green VP Community Projects........................................ Emily Parks Strategic Development Chair..............................Susan Belasco Parliamentarian..............................................Allyson Langston Sustainer Advisor.............................................Barbara Peterson Helping Hands Annual Chair...........................Michelle Briley
Vision Statement The Junior League of Lufkin welcomes all women who are committed to volunteerism. The League educates and challenges its members to be effective community leaders, advocates, and individuals. Trained volunteers and collaborators will address and respond to community needs with positive solutions. The League focus is to educate and empower individuals, primarily children, by providing the resources and tools that will address all aspects of their well being.
July 2011 1
Bulletin Board Please contact Allison J ames (mustangallie@rocketmail. com or 936.414.2249) for any League events that need a Photographer. Please contact Julianne Greak (jcgreak@yahoo.com) for a change of address, email address, or phone number.
Le ag ue Ba bysitters Hannah Harris Sheridan Adair Kayla Tierney Macy Rawls
15 16 16 16
639-5838 632-9313 212-2734 212-1507
Want to submit an article, suggest an idea, or have something to add to the Bulletin Board for the next issue of Our View? Please email Sharon Kruk (srkruk@yahoo.com) before the 15th of the month. We welcome your ideas, suggestions and feedback! Camp Get Fit /Kids in the Kitchen: July 25-29 at First United Metho
dist Church.
The Junior League of Lufkin appreciates the support of Lufkin Industries
Law Firm PLLC
Additional Offices: Nacogdoches, Texas and Livingston, Texas
2 July 2011
Leadership Lines By Jennifer Webster, President
I
hope you are all staying cool this summer! I wanted to catch you up on our trip to the AJLI Annual Conference in Philadelphia in May. Marcy Weibe, Emily Parks, Susan Belasco, and I attended this year. We had a wonderful time getting to know each other better and learning more about the plans for the Strategic Roadmap to bring back and share with our League. We began with the opening, which gave us direction and set the tone for the conference. The theme was “Transitions”. I plan to share with you the opening sequence at our first general meeting because AJLI has done a great job introducing the roadmap; now they are ready to move us all into the transition phase. It is an exciting time to be in the Junior League! The first evening, the Opening Reception was at Reading Terminal Market. It was a wonderful old train terminal that was turned into an open market for vendors of anything from fresh produce to books. The vendors, focusing on local cuisine, provided food and drink samples for all the attendees. This is where we had our first Philly Cheesesteak! This is also where we were educated by the staff on how to order a Philly Cheesesteak like a local. It’s not a real Philly Cheesesteak unless it has Cheese Whiz. Who knew? So, it’s Whiz With (onions) or Whiz Without. That’s it. Now you know. We also met with the Longview League, who had sent four members as well, Leslie Carlile, Natalie Lynch, Julie Woods and Leah Hickman. We made plans to stay in touch with them throughout the conference. The next day, Marcy and I attended a breakout session on the Birkman Method. The Birkman Method consists of a 298-question personality assessment and a series of related report sets that facilitate team building, executive coaching, leadership development, career counseling and interpersonal conflict resolution. If you ever have the opportunity to take the assessment, I highly recommend it. It provides interesting (expected and unexpected!) feedback into how “you” work. Through a combination of regression and factor analysis, The Birkman Method identifies the respondent’s everyday interpersonal style (usual behavior) and gives unique insights into underlying motivations and needs. Stress behaviors are identified when these needs are not met. Knowing the underlying motivations and the consequences of unmet needs give the leadership team an effective way to improve performance and reduce conflict. What Marcy and I learned about each other is that our personalities are definitely not the same, which we could have guessed, but also how our personalities can complement each other and how we can assist one another with any conflicts that may arise within the League. Of course, I am quite sure we will have no need for such skills! We also attended breakout sessions on parliamentary procedures, where we learned the intricacies of actually running a meeting, especially a meeting that might involve a heated discussion. We were able to use this new knowledge at the Annual Conference voting session that followed. Some of the discussion at the voting conference was very, very interesting…to say the least. The national level dues increase proposal was approved by a majority vote; however, the large leagues proposed two resolutions, both of which were defeated after much discussion. Marcy and I would be happy to discuss these items in detail if anyone would like to know more about the resolutions, the voting or anything else in between. We squeezed in a few minutes to visit the exhibitor showcase. Vendors included everything from jewelry to clothing to SHOES! Yay! Look for a few fun purchases to appear throughout the year. We went to dinner with the Longview League that evening. We discussed events and items that affect both of our Leagues, as well as things we had found interesting from the day’s sessions. We had a great time with the Longview ladies. They have been a wealth of information,
as well as a source of close friendship and a set of friendly faces when we attend these conferences. I sincerely hope our Leagues continue to bond through the years. The next day, I attended another breakout session on how to make the general meetings more interesting. This breakout session was moderated by Vickie Clark. She is such a treasure. If you ever have the chance to hear her speak, please take advantage of it! I am happy to report that I will be implementing all the knowledge from this breakout session immediately! I am so excited about our upcoming general meetings. Each meeting will have a stated purpose and possibly a theme, (I’m still kicking that one around), we will try NOT to go over items that you could have easily read about before the meeting, and lastly our general meetings will be interactive! You should plan to do something at each meeting, whether it is sing a song, dance a dance or tell a joke. Be ready! We were given some down time to explore the city on the third day. Unfortunately, it was pouring rain, but we braved the elements and stood in line in our awesomely fashionable rain slickers to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. We then made our way to the shopping area and visited H&M and several other shops. Yes, one of us did pay for overweight luggage on the return trip, but no names will be mentioned. We wrapped up the trip tired, but much better informed about the direction we should be taking the League and the best way to get there. We all thank you for sending us to Philadelphia and allowing us to represent the Junior League of Lufkin at the Annual Conference!
Jennifer Webster Simple Chicken Sandwich
$2.49 1106 S Timberland Offer expires 08/31/2011 Present coupon when ordering. One coupon per customer per visit. Void where prohibited. Not valid with any other offer. Good at participating Popeyes only. ©2010 AFC Enterprises, Inc.
July 2011 3
May Celebration Meeting 2011 Sustainer of the Year:
Lisa Griffin
The 2011 Sustainer of the Year was nominated by not one, not two, but three different members for consideration. During her time in the League, Lisa Griffin served in a wide variety of roles, including President. In the community, Lisa helps at her children’s schools and serves at her church. Lisa has deeply touched and influenced many lives and has served as a role model for service to others with dignity and grace. The Junior League of Lufkin could search far and wide and not find a more deserving candidate for the honor of Sustainer of the Year!
2011 New Sustainers
Dessa Glass, Michelle Deaton, Sheila Gillespie, Reba Squyres, Misty Croley
2011 Volunteer of the Year:
Susan Belasco
The 2011 Volunteer of the Year is an incredible asset to not only our League and her family, but also her workplace and the other places she volunteers. Susan Belasco takes a real interest in peoples’ lives and has a heart for everyone she meets. From her friends to those less fortunate, she truly wants to help when anyone is struggling. Susan was instrumental in her position with JLL this year and was always willing to step up and get a job done. Selfless, Understanding, Stylish, Amazing and Nobel definitely represent this special woman that we all know as Susan Belasco, our Volunteer of the Year.
2011 Scholarship Recipients Pictured are (sitting,left to right) Callie Shivers, Diboll High School, will be attending Texas A&M University; Lauren Ford, Central High School, will be attending Texas A&M University; (standing left to right) Meagan Swor, Hudson High School, will be attending University of Texas at Arlington; Jacob Johnson, Lufkin High School, will be attending Texas Tech University; Paige Parker, Lufkin High School, will be attending University of Texas. M-F: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
936-639-2346
Special thanks to Our Helping Hands Meeting Sponsor, DP Solutions! Thank you to Bruce Love for his support of The League. DP Solutions has been serving the East Texas Community since 1988. They offer a full range of IT services to meet your company’s needs. Visit them at 1508 South First Street or call 637-7977. Don’t just dream about retirement.
200 Gaslight Blvd. Lufkin, Texas www.abeldtspharmacy.com • Compounding Pharmacy • City-Wide Delivery • Jobst Supporting Stockings • Mastectomy Fitting Room • Diabetic Supplies
4 July 2011
• Therapeutic Shoes • Wheelchairs/Walkers • BCBS Provider & most insurances accepted
Plan For It. Vince Treadwell, CFP® 321 S. First St. Lufkin, Tx 75901 (936) 634-6116
www.edwardjones.com Member SPIC
Serving Individual Investors Since 1871
Council Chat By Susan Belasco, Strategic Development Chair Former Advisory Chair “A pessimist, they say, sees a glass of water as being half empty; an optimist sees the same glass as half full. But a giving person sees a glass of water and starts looking for someone who might be thirsty.” – G. Donald Gale hat a fabulous year this has been! You all have worked so hard in our community by your commitment to the League in fulfilling your placements and your continued support in attending and promoting our fundraising events. As a result, over 4,000 hours of trained volunteer time, as well as direct financial support and scholarships were given to thousands of needy people in Angelina County through projects, grants and collaborations with community partners. These goals were accomplished by JLL member’s truly admirable commitment to our community. This year the Junior League of Lufkin was able to give over $32,000 in financial support to agencies in our community through the funding application process. The funding application was advertised in the local newspaper and applications were downloaded directly from the JLL website. Applicants requesting funding had to identify the project they were requesting the funds for, what geographic area the funds would serve and whether or not they received funding from any other organization. The Advisory Board reviewed all of the applications very carefully and used a rubric scoring process to decide what agencies received the funding. Letters were sent out to those agencies who received money and a letter, as well as a personal phone call, was given to those we were not able to assist. Although we were not able to help everyone with a grant, the JLL pledged to help in other ways such as Done in a Meeting projects or volunteer assistance when needed. Grants were dispersed at the Power Networking Breakfast in May hosted by JLL at The Museum of East Texas. Accepting agencies were overjoyed as they received their checks. Thanks again to all of you for your continued service to the League and to your commitment of excellence to our community. You have filled a lot of glasses this year and served them to many thirsty people. Enjoy your summer and we will see you in the Fall.
W
Junior League of Lufkin Disbursements In League Funded Projects Back to School Bonanza/School Supplies Camp Get Fit Career Conference Done in a Day Project Family Night Program JLL Relay for Life Team Middle School Volunteer Program (MVP) Placement President’s Charity Vision Screening Sustainer’s Charity Training Rainbow Room Scholarships Museum of East Texas
Community Donations Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Angelina County Health District/MyPAC Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Concerned Black Men (Summer Camp) GREAT--Gang Resistance Education and Training Goodwill Industries Hospice in the Pines National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin Volunteer Services Center
Susan Belasco
July 2011 5
Camp Get Fit/Kids in the Kitchen
R
By Laura Mikeal, Chair
egistration is now open for the 2011 Camp Get Fit and Kids in the Kitchen for students entering 3rd through 5th grade. The event is July 25th-29th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center. Cost of registration is $10.00. The Camp Get Fit/ Kids in the Kitchen program was developed to teach youngsters about health, nutrition and fitness. The children will learn the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle by staying active and making healthier food choices. Activities at the camp will include cooking, physical activity games, and fun interactive education about health and nutrition. The pre-registration deadline is July 8th. Everyone who pre-registers will receive a T-shirt. We will also accept registration the morning of camp, but T-shirts will not be available to those who do not pre-register. You may download a registration form from the League website at www. juniorleagueoflufkin.org or contact Laura Mikeal at lmikeal@lufkinisd. org. Once completed, you may mail forms to Laura Mikeal at 289 Rolling Meadows, Lufkin 75904. We hope to see you at Camp Get Fit!
Laura Mikeal
Serving the East Texas Community since 1988. st Serving the East Texas Commu Visit us at 1508 South 1 Street in Lufkin, or st Visit us at 1508 South 1 Stree Call us at (936) 637‐7977 Call us at (936) 637‐
Network & Systems Diagnostics, Support, and Rep Network & Systems Diagnostics, Support, and Repair for Business and Residential Customers needing: Residential Customers needing:
Wired or Wireless Network Sales, Installations, Re
Wired or Wireless Network Sales, Installations, Repairs or Additions; Server Consolidation, Configuration and M Computer Upgrades, Replacements and Virus/Sp Server Consolidation, Configuration and Management; Data Recovery. Migration and Mainte Computer Upgrades, Replacements and Virus/Spyware Removal; Professional Sales, Consulting, and Techn Data Recovery. Migration and Maintenance; Professional Sales, Consulting, and Technical Staff.
Proud Sponsors of the Junior League of Lufkin & Changing program for families affected by Autis
Proud Sponsors of the Junior League of Lufkin & Changing the Path – a support program for families affected by Autism.
6 July 2011
Career Conference
T
By Karol Brown, Chair he 2011 Career Conference was held at Lufkin Middle School on Tuesday, May 10th. This one day conference was held for approximately 600 of our 8th grade students at Lufkin Middle School. Activities this year included six panels of professional speakers, peer mentoring with Lufkin High School, an aerospace presentation with professionals from NASA, motivational speaker Sam Hamilton, and the new version of College Road Trip, now renamed “Life,” which was once again provided by Jim Frank. The day ended with an assembly that included information on how college can make a difference in careers and earning potential. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Career Conference a huge success, including Junior League members, Jr. Achievement members, community volunteers, and Lufkin Middle School Principal Vickie Evans. Thank you especially to Tabitha Dixon with Jr. Achievement for all your help in securing professional speakers. And a BIG Thank you goes out to my co-chair Hilary Walker; I could not have done it without you! .
Karol Brown
Injuries & Illnesses Injuries & Illnesses Injuries & Illnesses Antibiotics & Shots Injuries & Illnesses Antibiotics & Shots Antibiotics & Shots On-Site Digital X-Ray Antibiotics & Shots On-Site Digital X-Ray On-Site Digital X-Ray Injuries & Illnesses Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment On-Site Digital X-Ray Injuries & Illnesses Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Injuries & Illnesses Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Antibiotics & Shots Lacerations & Broken Bones Antibiotics & Shots Lacerations Broken Bones Injuries && Illnesses Antibiotics & Shots Lacerations & Broken Bones Lacerations & Broken Bones On-Site Digital X-Ray Urgent On-Site Lab On-Site&Digital X-Ray Urgent On-Site Lab Injuries Illnesses Urgent On-Site Lab Antibiotics Shots On-Site Digital X-Ray Urgent On-Site&Lab Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Antibiotics & Shots Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Nacogdoches On-Site Digital X-Ray Lacerations & Broken Bones Lacerations & Broken Bones 936-560-9898 Injuries & Illnesses Lacerations & Broken Bones On On-Site Digital X-Ray North Street Across Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment Urgent On-Site Lab Urgent On-Site Lab Walmart in the NacogdoAntibiotics & Shots Urgent On-Site Lab ches Market Place Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment
Lufkin 634-DOCS (3627) Between Sam’s and Tractor Supply
Livingston 888-634-DOCS (3627) On 190 Across Walmart Livingston
Lufkin Lacerations & Broken Bones Nacogdoches Livingston Nacogdoches 634-DOCS (3627) opens 7 July888-634-DOCS 2011 Livingston Lufkin Nacogdoches Lacerations & Broken Bones 888-634-DOCS 634-DOCS (3627) opens On 190 Acro On-Site Lab Urgent Sam’s Asthma Treatment Between and& AllergyUrgent November On-Site Digital X-Ray Lufkin
Helping Hands 2010 – 2011 Helping Hands Campaign Partners
Thanks again to our 2010-2011 Helping Hands Campaign Partners!
Corporate Partners
Platinum Hands - $10,000 Brookshire Brothers
Gold Hands - $5,000
Memorial Health System of East Texas The Journey Magazine Urgent Doc
Silver Hands - $2,500 First Bank & Trust
Purple Hands – Advertisers
Abeldt's Gaslight Pharmacy Alexander, Lankford & Hiers, Inc. Laser Hair Removal Therapy & Facial Aesthetics Beard Fine Jewelers Broford, Ltd. / Popeye’s Dream Homes and Drafting Home Theater Concepts Dr. Brian Humphreys Edward Jones Miraculous Solutions Morgan Insurance Agency-Terry & Susan Morgan Outback Steakhouse Donna Quarles Photography Roderick of Texas Studer Orthodontics Texas Custom Catering Texas State Bank The Very Thing! Zeleskey Law Firm, PLLC
The Junior League of Lufkin appreciates your generous support, which Sustaallows iner Parus tners to give back to the women and children in our community. Blue Hands - $1,500 DP Solutions Johnson Pools & Spas Langston Construction Lufkin Industries
Red Hands - $1,000
Bettye & Murphy George Foundation Temple-Inland, Inc.
Green Hands - $500
Abeldt's Gaslight Pharmacy Bancorp South The Children's Clinic of Lufkin, P.A. Commercial Bank of Texas Junior League of Lufkin Sustainers Lufkin Dealers Auto Auction Winston & Denman Timber Woodland Heights Medical Center Zeleskey Law Firm, PLLC
Thank you Sustainers for your monetary contribution to our Annual Campaign:
Sustaining Hands ($1,000) Lisa Griffin Mary K. Grum
Serving Hands ($251 -$500) Rebecca Chance Mary M. Henderson Liz Jeffrey Kathi Johnson Lynda Langston Kim Wright
The 2011-2012 Helping Hands Campaign will start soon and we hope to count on you for continued support. Yellow Hands - $250
Supporting Hands ($250 and Below)
A Wild Hair Salon The Advanced Financial Group Alvis-Brookshire and Associates, Merrill Lynch Angelina Hardwood Sales-Trey & Brigettee Henderson Bartlett, Baggett & Shands Insurance Borgfeld & White, P.C. The Center For Sight Wes Combs, CRNA Hester & Hester Architecture Laser Hair Removal Therapy & Facial Aesthetics Whataburger
LaJune Bradley Dot Brookshire Anita Caraway Lorelle Coleman Dianne Croom Llewellyn Frazier Andrea Friesen Kim Kassaw Theresa McKewen Kelley Moore Mary Moore Nancy Reily Janice Ann Rowe Thalia Tierney Jetta K. Westerholm
8 July 2011
Summer Special
Members in the Spotlight
Can you guess the JLL member? By Elisabeth Grimes, Internal PR
1. I have two wonderful sons and a great husband. I am a Realtor at Gann Medford Real Estate. I bet you didn’t know that I used to be the Coca Cola Cowgirl!
A
B
Michelle Haney
2. I am an Event and Construction Coordinator. I have two beautiful daughters and I am the President of the St. Cyprian’s PTO. I bet you didn’t know that certain sounds drive me crazy!
Caron Cook
3. I am the proud mom of twins and have a wonderful husband. I have been the office manager at Alexander Electric for over 11 years. I bet you didn’t know that my husband and I used to work for Nascar legend Darrell Waltrip! 4. I am a 10th grade English teacher at Lufkin High School. I have 2 sons and a great husband. I attended West Orange –Stark High School and Texas State University. I bet you didn’t know that my favorite placement was Charity Ball – Auction Display!
C
D
Samie Montes
Ashley Bowers
5. I am mom to 2 great kids. Growing up, I wanted to be a doctor, however, once I started school at the University of Texas, I realized that I did not have the memory to be a doctor! I bet you didn’t know that I have a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering! 6. I am a mom to 2 great kids with my husband Stephen. I attended Lufkin High School and Texas Tech. My favorite League placement has been Internal PR and Website. I bet you didn’t know that when I get nervous I pick my nails!
E
Jean Lucas
7. I am an Account Executive at Townsquare Media and have 2 wonderful kids with my husband Scott. Right or wrong I stand behind the decisions and statements that I make. I bet you didn’t know that I have a green thumb! 8. I have a wonderful husband and two great kids. I am the Dance and Cheer teacher at LMS. I love to decorate cakes, but don’t ask me to help pick out clothes or jewelry. I’m a graduate of Texas A&M with a degree in Molecular & Cell Biology. I bet you didn’t know that I can’t stand for my food to touch on a plate!
F
G
H
Marcy Weibe 10 July 2011
Julianne Greak
Crystal Perry Gann
Motivational Minute
M
By Lindsey Goforth, Family Nights Chair otivation?!?? Well, lately my motivation has been dripping like the sweat from my temples and down my back as I watch five and six year olds play T-ball. However, as I watched our T-ball era come to an end this year, I was inspired by a small situation that made my
heart smile. Out on the T-ball field, you have dads living vicariously through their sons, mommas cheering and even cussing (under their breath, of course) and little ones trying their best just to please the coach and the fans. And then there is the one who is oblivious to the details of the game. Out in right field he stands, kicking up dirt and watching the action at the playground across the fence. This little one is different, though, because he has special needs. Special needs, but he wants the same love and pat on the back when running back into the dugout. He wants the same chance to run the bases and possibly make it home. These special needs are being granted without anyone else even knowing. His parents come to every practice, every game, and bring snacks just like the other team members. No, this little player is not great. In fact, he seldom knows what to do with the occasional ball that rolls his way. However, he is supported by his team. His support includes his coaches, teammates, parents and even the therapist watching in the stands. On this day, my motivation was lifted five feet off the ground by this player’s daddy. His dad will never know the encouragement he
gave me as I watched him pick his son up and toss him into the air when he jogged across home plate. This dad knows his son is different. He knows he won’t be the star of the team, but he shows up to each practice and each game. He shows up to support the other players and cheer on his son. What courage it must take to be a dad wanting so badly to have his son fulfill all the dreams that all fathers wish for their sons, but knowing that in all likelihood, those dreams won’t come true. It made me think. What would I do? I was blessed by a healthy little T-baller who loves the game and the competition it brings. But, what if I wasn’t? What would I do if I knew my son wouldn’t be picked in any draft and might even be looked at by the other team as an easy out? Would I have the courage to be proud of what God has given me and still put myself out there for the world to see my “not-so-perfect” family? This sweet family that I speak of has chosen to do so. And for that, I am proud. I am inspired. I am motivated. I say thank you to them for reminding us that kids are kids. What a joy it is to see the other kids on the team support the little one that often brings an out for each inning, to support the friend that loves life and loves just being on the team. So, I ask all of you: are you willing to put yourselves out there and show your weakness? Will you be willing to try and learn something in the challenge? I’m going to try. Maybe, just maybe, I will inspire someone like the proud daddy did for me, jumping up and down for someone else as they stumble across, first, possibly second, maybe third, and Lord willing, home plate!
Lindsey Goforth
July 2011 11
Provisional News
G
By Donna Ross, Provisional Trainer et ready, JLL! We might have to knock down some walls to fit in our new Provisional class at the meetings! I am so excited to report that we will have 28 new Provisionals joining us this upcoming year! And to that I say, “Yippee, amazing, fabulous, and all right, let’s grow the League!” The Provisionals will be starting their year as a group at the ROPES course in September and then introduced to the general membership at our October meeting. If you see any of these lovely ladies around town before then, be sure to say, “Hi!” And now, introducing the new 2011-2012 Junior League of Lufkin Provisional Class:
Donna Ross
Leslie Ainsworth
Erica Callaham
Becky Butler
Michelle McCleskey
Carolina Armstrong
Jessica Alverson
Mandy Camp
Tyler Pavlic
Jessica Brown
Missy Berry
Melissa Hannah
Mary Ridings
Cara Hewitt
Crystal Thomas
Jessica Alverson Missy Berry
Becky Butler
Leslie Ainsworth
Erica Callaham
Carolina Armstrong
Tonja Childers
Jessica Brown
Katie Henry
Diane Hineman
Monica Peters
Frances Racine Lamil Spencer Cori Weeks
Allison Horsley
Rebecca Weeks
Leslie Jinkins
Ashli Yawn
Melissa Huggins Emily May
Rebecca West
Roderick of Texas
Floral Company
Call to Place an Order (936) 639-2961 714 Largent Street • Lufkin, Texas 75904 • (936) 639-1397
Coming Summer 2011 to Downtown Lufkin
Rod Puryear Owner
12 July 2011
Focus on the Community
Pregnancy Help Center Paula Havard, Executive Director
T
he Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin has been providing free services to pregnant and mothering women since 1984. Over the course of the past 27 years, it has been our joy and privilege to provide needed resources, referrals and loving support to sexually active, pregnant and mothering women of all ages. Our goal is to equip and encourage positive responses to some of life’s difficult choices. All of our services are free of charge only because of the generous support of this giving community. From churches and charitable foundations to businesses and individuals, the gracious giving of this community has consistently allowed us to minister to the needs of women and babies. At the Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin, we understand that parenting is a difficult task, one that requires a lot of effort and energy from both mom and dad. Not everyone is excited about the news of having a child for several reasons, but most commonly because they lack time, energy, resources or a support system. We are able to provide the opportunity to earn resources in the way of diapers, wipes, clothing, shoes, lotion, shampoo, bottles, diaper bags, rash cream, pacifiers, car safety seats, strollers and occasionally baby beds and more. Through mentoring, we provide a solid support system for mothers to share struggles, challenges, successes and failures. It is our desire to walk alongside each mom to help overcome those challenges, face the struggles and failures with a positive outlook and celebrate the successes in life. We help bring joy to the journey of motherhood. While these resources are made available, it is only through participation in our Learn to Earn Parenting Education Program that women are able to earn “mommy money” to purchase the items they need from our resource room. Participation includes group classes, one-on-one mentoring sessions, watching educational videos, book and magazine reports and much more. The more our moms learn . . .the more they earn! The Junior League of Lufkin has graciously provided funds to assist in providing car safety seats and the other baby necessities (specifically diapers and wipes) to the women who participate in our on-going program. From the time a mom finds out she is pregnant, up to the time the child reaches 2 ½ years of age, she can actively participate in the Learn to Earn Parenting Education Program. The monetary impact that the Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin can have on a mom who is active in the program is averaged at an equivalent of $50 per visit. On the other hand, the emotional impact is priceless. Take for example “Kelly’s” statement: “Before being introduced to the center, I was depressed, suicidal and hopeless. Since becoming a member of this program, I’ve been stable enough to enjoy life again. I have also been a better and more loving parent. Thank you for helping mothers like me.” “Kelly” (3/25/2011)
“Kelly” is a product of our encouragement, mentorship and education . . .but mostly her own hard work! In addition to our Learn to Earn Parenting Education Program, moms have access to these other free services: • Pregnancy testing and verification for Medicaid. • Pregnancy confirmation through limited obstetrical ultrasound. • Pregnancy options mentoring (discuss parenting, adoption and abortion). • Pre-natal education on fetal development and proper nutrition. • Mentoring on relationship and other complicated life issues. • Abstinence mentoring and training. • On-campus pregnancy and parenting education for High School and college mothers. • Car seat safety classes and free car seat. • Referrals for housing, financial assistance, legal issues, drug or alcohol abuse, mental issues, help finding a church home and more. With a small staff of just two (2) full time and three (3) part-time staff members, the PHC of Lufkin is always in need of volunteers. If you would like to mentor a mom and help to bring joy to the journey of parenting, contact Paula Havard at 632-9292 ext. 104. PHC hours are M o n d a y / Tu e s d a y / Thursday from 8-6, Wednesday from 8-5 and Friday 8-1. However, as a mentoring mom, you can meet with your mentee after hours or on Saturday...whatever fits your schedule best. I have served with the Pregnancy Help Center since 1994 and currently, I can say that we are experiencing a truly exciting time of growth. Not only are we seeing more moms at the center, but we are expanding our services into local high schools, the Boys and Girls Club and the Angelina County Jail. It is a great time to be involved in such an awesome ministry, where opportunities to share God’s love are abundant.
Paula Havard LANGSTON CONSTRUCTION INC. “Our reputation is building every day”
1000 S. Medford • Lufkin, Texas 75901 (936) 632-9847 July 2011 13
Back to School Bonanza By Shelli Ellis, Chair Last August several Junior League of Lufkin members drove to Longview to check out the Junior League of Longview’s “Back to School Train” and see what this event was all about. Later that evening, while at their board retreat, we were told how fabulous this event was and that we “must do this in Lufkin!” From that point on, the JLL Board began brainstorming how we could create a successful Back to School Bonanza for the children of Angelina County! Things quickly began falling into place and the First United Methodist Church graciously offered their facilities for our 1st Annual Back
14 July 2011
to School Bonanza, scheduled for Saturday, August 6th from 8am – 4pm. Buckner Children’s & Family Services has teamed with us to screen/qualify families prior to the event, as well as the day of during the event. The Junior League of Lufkin will provide 1,000 FREE backpacks filled with school supplies to children that qualify. In addition to the backpacks, the children will receive updated immunizations (donated by the Children’s Clinic and Angelina Pediatrics); have a dental screening (provided by local dentists and/or their hygienists) and receive a dental pack that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and timer (donated by Dr. Fred & Lisa Griffin). Children will also have a chance to have their vision screened and can have their haircut, too. We consider the Back to
School Bonanza a “one-stop shopping” event. We have sent home 15,000 flyers (see this page) with all the children in Angelina County and we are expecting a fabulous turnout! We still need A LOT of help though … If you (or someone you know) are a hairdresser or have training in dental or vision screening and would like to help, please contact one of our B2SB sub-committee chairs or call me directly at 631-1892 with any questions you might have regarding the event: Dental - Heather Robertson (671-9913); Haircuts – Kathi White (212-1308); and Vision Screening – Rhonda Cates (675-0235). Together, we will make a difference in the lives of the children in Angelina County!
Shelli Ellis
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Granddough Baking Company Thank you so much to Justin Kezar with Grandough Baking Company who donated the beautiful cake for our May Celebration Meeting! Grandough Baking Company has your specialty baking needs covered. From corporate gifts to birthdays and weddings, Grandough Baking Company can put the ‘special’ in your occasion! Stop by and check out all their goodies at 1705-C Feagin Drive or call 632-1005.
Roderick of Texas A big thank you to our Floral Sponsor this year, Roderick of Texas. Rod did an amazing job of making our meetings look so beautiful! Rod is working out of home until his new downtown location is ready this summer. He can be reached at 6392961.
A Walk Down Memory Lane Watch this section for a monthly 'blast from the past' celebrating the Junior League of Lufkin's history. If you have any past events to suggest or old photos to contribute, please send them to Sharon Kruk at srkruk@yahoo.com.
Congratulations to our Volunteers of the Month and Pat on the Back Recipients! 2010-2011
Volunteer of the Month Pat on the Back September Julianne Greak Keela Morgan October Emily Parks Teri Nichols November Jennifer Webster Samie Montes January Nickie Ashby Hilary Haglund -Walker February Karen Harris Mendi Brent March Susie Childers Kathryn Williams and April Brewer April Tara Watson Melissa Roberts
Visit our NEW website at advancedlasercenteret.com
121 Gaslight Medical Parkway, Ste. 100 • Lufkin • (936) 699-3141
July 2011 15
Sustainer News By Lisa Haglund Melissa and Buford Abeldt enjoyed a trip to Las Vegas for the annual meeting of the American College of Apothecaries, a national pharmacy organization. This meeting provides an opportunity to learn new trends in pharmacy and see old friends. The highlight of the trip for Melissa was getting to see Celine Dion perform. Susan Morgan reports that the 2011-2012 Lufkin Cheerleader squads are well represented by young women with Sustainer roots. LHS Varsity seniors Sarah Morgan, daughter of Susan Morgan, and Sarah Stafford, daughter of Linda Stafford, and juniors Calianne Teutsch, daughter of Cherri Teutsch, and Kayla Tierney, granddaughter of Thailia Tierney, were selected in the spring try-outs T.J. Patterson is their cheerleader coach. JV Cheerleaders, Ashlyn Coleman, daughter of Lorelle Coleman, and Chancey Sanders, daughter of Melanie Sanders, were chosen. These Freshman Cheerleaders were selected: Kelly Haney, daughter of Lynne Haney, Maci Moore, daughter of Kelley Moore, and Emily Stafford, daughter of Linda Stafford. The Sustainer Line Up continues with LMS cheerleaders: Elisabeth Alvis, daughter of Sally Alvis, Allie East, daughter of Jean East, and Anna Temple, grandaughter of Joan Temple. Congratulations to all of these young women and their families on this accomplishment. Preston Peavey Haglund was born on April 28 to Leeanne and Hunter Haglund. Grandparents are Andrea and Gip Friesen, Vickie and Marty Evans and Wayne and Lisa Haglund. He arrived 4 weeks early, and after spending his first 8 days in the Neonatal Unit at Shumpert Hospital in Shreveport, is now doing great. Hunter Haglund is working for Morgan Insurance in Lufkin. Luanna and Scott Semlinger’s son, Greg, is a CPA with the Deloitte Accounting Firm in Houston where he has been promoted to Tax Manager. Their daughter, Lauren, lives in the Woodlands and works for SNL Financial, a Virginia firm. Lauren is active in the
Montgomery Co. Junior League where she was asked to co-chair the Hospitality Committee. Frances Ainsworth, daughter of Jane and Rick Ainsworth, graduated from Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA on June 4 and will attend TCU in the fall. Daughter Leigh is a senior at Trinity University and is working at the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University this summer. Their son, John, will graduate from Texas A&M in August and will begin work at Kimley-Horn in Houston in the fall. We received a lovely thank you note from Brooke Lazarine. She received the 2011 LHS Alumni Association Junior League of Lufkin Sustainer Scholarship, in the amount of $1,000. In the note she says: “This is one of the most exciting times of my life, and I am so appreciative that you could be a huge part of my journey to Texas A&M! Thank you again! It means the world.” You may have noticed that Kathy Barrett did not author this installment of the “Sustainer News”. This is my first issue to write so I have combined information sent to Kathy with news I’ve gathered. In the future, please send your news to me, Lisa Haglund, at the email address listed below or give me a call. Thank you, Kathy, for your service to Our View. Send your NEWS to: haglund@suddenlink.net or 936-634-1950. Stay cool and enjoy the summer,
Lisa Haglund
2011-12 Sustainer Board President: Vice President: Parliamentarian: Secretary: Treasurer: Fall Meeting: Holiday Tea: Spring Social: Career Conference: Spring Market: Vision Screening: Mosaic Center: Charity Ball Our View: Media: Emeritus Rep: Members At Large:
fbtet.com
w See ho
personal banking
can b e
• Convenient location • Friendly, local staff • More personal attention • Uncomplicated mortgage loans • Personal and business accounts • Timesaving online banking with bill pay • User-friendly online banking and financial calculators • 4 locations in Lufkin and 1 location in Diboll
Reach any of our bankers at 936-829-4721 16 July 2011
Barbara Peterson Bobbi Robinson Melissa Abeldt Sylvia Ricks Linda Malnar Ginger Bates and Susan Morgan Lisa Griffin Len Medford, Jane Johnson, Judy Perry Vickie Evans Mary Jane West Ginna Hudgens Thalia Tierney
Lisa Haglund Debra Moore Jetta Westerholm Patti Smithhart and Susan Sumners
Events & Birthday Calendar
J S u n d ay
M o n d ay
T u e s d ay
U
L
Y
W e d n e s d ay
T h u r s d ay
F r i d ay
1
S at u r d ay
2 Theresa McKewen Kim Wright Leslie Allen Day
Lynne Haney Amy Jo Roland
3
Melissa Abeldt Susan Simpson Allison Horsley Mallory Grubb Donna Ross
10
4
5
6 Crystal Thomas
11
12
13
Debbie Jackson Michelle McCleskey Heather Robertson
17
18
24
19
Sally Alvis Margaret Huggins Teri Nichols
20
Susan Harris Frances Racine
Linda Anderson Tina Turner
25
7
8
9
14 Vickie Evans
15
16
21
22
23
29
30
Sandra Leinart Delise McIlveene Carolin Sanders
Allyson Langston
26 Camp Get Fit
Stephanie Cook
Mary Leah Duran Carol Moore Kathy Sample Cindy Tierney
27
Camp Get Fit
Liz Jeffrey
28
Patricia Smithhart Dottie Tompkins
Camp Get Fit
Daphene Clarke
Camp Get Fit
Camp Get Fit
Libby Stapleton
F r i d ay
S at u r d ay
31 Lamil Spencer
Ross Gibbs
S u n d ay
A
M o n d ay
1
2
8
U 4 11
16
17
18 Terra Fidone Anita Boyd Paula Scherry
Vicki Gann Jonna Jones
21
22
23
24
28
29
30
31
Patress Schaeffer
6 Flora O’Quinn Elizabeth Durrett
12
Rebecca Brightwell
Angie Roper
Vicki Gann Jonna Jones
5 Linda Malnar Anita Williams
10
T
T h u r s d ay
Martha Chandler Kelli Wayland
9
15
S
W e d n e s d ay
3
Nancy Reily Angela Marcotte
14
G
T u e s d ay
Kim Herman
7
U
Lisa Griffin Melanie Rushing- Saldana
13
Sharon Rudis Rachelle Frankens
19 Kathy Barrett
25
Back to School Bonanza
Mandy Camp
20 Jane Johnson Nancy Ramsey
Jessica Brown
26
27
Jamie Zayler Katie Henry Suzy Jungmann
July 2011 17
Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE
PA I D
P.O. Box 151812 Lufkin, Texas 75915
Permit No. 45 Lufkin, TX
M i s s i on S tat e m e n t The Junior League of Lufkin is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism and to improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
Introducing the Area’s First and Only Physician Specializing in Mammography Interpretation Christopher T. Sherman, M.D., Ph.D. Board Certified Radiologist Fellowship Trained in Breast Imaging at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center At Memorial Health System of East Texas, we strive to provide exceptional care for those in our community. By offering Digital Mammography for over 3 years and now with the addition of Dr. Sherman, women can expect even more specialized care. Dr. Sherman is a Board Certified Radiologist and the only radiologist in the area to have completed Fellowship Training in Breast Imaging at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
• Extensive clinical experience in screening and diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, breast pathology and interventional procedures.
• Training in the advanced interpretation of mammography, breast ultrasound, breast MRI and in the accompanying image-guided biopsies.
To schedule a mammogram with one of our registered mammography technologists, call (936) 639-7374.
Visit us online at memorialhealth.org
• Education in the epidemiology, diagnosis, pathology and therapy of breast cancer including screening for breast cancer and identification patterns of recurrence of malignant breast tumors.