December 2014 LeagueLink

J U N I O R L E A G U E O F O K L A H O M A C I T Y, I N C .

Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

DECEMBER 2014

Mistletoe Market Success PLUS: JLOC MEMBER RUNS BOSTON MARATHON

President’s Letter Hello, Friends.

Kristi Leonard

MISSION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Happy Holidays!

I love this time of year when we celebrate friends, family and faith. We count our blessings, give thanks for what we have and give to those who don’t. This year, I am especially thankful for the bright women on the 2014-2015 Board of Directors.

Each of these women has unique talents that help shape the future of our League. I appreciate how hard they are working to make this a productive year.

Thank you to Mike Knopp, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation, for sharing with the Members the great things happening along the Oklahoma River during the October General Meeting. It is exciting to see OKC emerge as a leader in the national rowing community.

Thank you to Mistletoe Market Chair, Laura Steen, and the entire Mistletoe Market Board for presenting a stellar 2014 Market. From the decorations to the vendors to the shifts, no detail was overlooked. It was a remarkable event, and I am proud of our Members for ensuring that our 21st annual Market was a success!

Thank you to TLDC Chair, Alexis Lux, and her Committee for providing healthrelated trainings to our Members. We have learned how to create container gardens, how to ‘embrace the quakes’ at a League-only class at Barre3 and how to spot the signs of eating disorders among our friends and families. I can’t wait to see what TLDC has in store for us in 2015!

Finally, thank you to the Members for working so hard to promote health and wellness in our community. Everyone working in League projects has dedicated herself to improving the lives of our fellow citizens. You should be pleased with your efforts thus far.

As we look towards the holidays, please make plans to attend our Holiday Open house on Wednesday, December 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. I am honored that Sustainer Amy Gray has graciously offered to host the event in her beautiful Nichols Hills home. Come enjoy fellowship with your fellow Provisionals, Actives and Sustainers as we celebrate the season together.

Once again, thank you for your service to our League. Without you, JLOC would not be recognized as a leader among other nonprofits in Oklahoma City. I am excited to see what the next few months will bring as we continue to promote our health and wellness focus in our community.

Thankfully yours,

VISION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. will empower volunteers to impact our community and enrich lives.

FOCUS Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

W W W. J L O C . O R G

2 DECEMBER 2014

Kristi Leonard President 2014-2015

Contents

DECEMBER 2014 LINK VISION

To inform members and increase awareness of Junior League of Oklahoma City projects and events.

EDITOR Deanne McGehee ASSISTANT EDITOR & BUSINESS MANAGER Leah Jackson SUSTAINING ADVISOR Lyn Watson COMMITTEE MEMBERS Kristin Ferate, Kristen Gaddis,

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PRESIDENT Kristi Leonard

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PRESIDENT-ELECT Nazette Zuhdi ADMINISTRATIVE VP Jenifer Randle BYLAWS CHAIR Blair Bradley COMMUNICATIONS VP Kristen Ferate COMMUNITY VP Mandy Heaps FINANCE VP Erin Fong FUNDRAISING VP Amanda Kirkpatrick-Lawler MEMBERSHIP VP Jamie Maddy

2015 GMM Schedule

PROFILE

[ p e op l e ]

JLOC Member Leslie Buford Runs Boston Marathon Girls On The Block

NOMINATING CHAIR Pam Campbell SUSTAINING ADVISOR Cindy Riesen COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

Lillie-Beth Brinkman, Clytie Bunyan, Terry Cline, Nicole Dobbins, James Farris, Debbie Forshee, Douglas Gibson, Stanley Hupfeld, Randy Lewis, Jack McBride, Dan Martel, Mel Martin, Matthew Mollman, Monique Naifeh, Mikio “Kio” Nihira, Lindsay Parks, Paul Ryckbost, Charles “Chuck” Spicer, Jr., Sandra Payne, Joe Strunk- Strunk, Pete Winemiller

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FOCUS

[ pr oj e c ts ]

Amachi Inside the Workout: Barre3 Healthy Practices for Survivors of Domestic

COMMUNITY PROJECTS/PROJECT MANAGERS

Violence

A SOLDIER’S STORY Lauren Sesock AMACHI: BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Meghan Dunn EAT BETTER, MOVE MORE Stacy Lopez FAMILY FITNESS NIGHTS @ OKC EDUCARE Tony Parks-Payne HEALTH LITERACY Natlie Browne HEALTHY PRACTICES FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE

Krystal Murer & Lori McConnell “HEALTHY YOU” PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT Whitney Rainbolt

League Link is published 5 times a year by the Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc.

Mistletoe Market Preview Party

Challenge

2014-2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Suzanne Singleterry KIDS ON TRACK Kathryn Chandler OCCC ADULT LITERACY Audra Doty-Bromagem PROM NIGHT AT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Nichole Glover BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE Jenny Dunham THE READING RAINFOREST Candice Rennels VARIETY CARE HEALTH & NUTRITION LITERACY Jenna Hudson VARIETY PACK Jenifer Stehr WHIZ KIDS April Waggoner

[ e ve nts ]

JLOC Board Members Take the ALS

Courtney Jordan, Holly Moore, Tori Raines, Chandler Walters, Fareshteh Hamidi

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN /TOP CHEF Sabrina Froehlick &

SCENE

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ET CETERA

[ va ri ous ]

Make Your Holiday Shopping Count Bookshelf Healthy Holiday Recipe: Asparagus Soup

ON THE COVER:

Santa visits Mistletoe Market. Photograph by Shirley Kay Consedine.

HEADQUARTERS

The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. 1001 NW Grand Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Phone (405) 843-5668 Fax (405) 843-0994 www.jloc.org FUNDRAISERS

Financial Development Mistletoe Market

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Scene [ events ]

A Good Time Was Had By All

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Mistletoe Market a Huge Success

By Liza Cryder

hank you JLOC! This year’s Mistletoe Market was a huge success and while the numbers aren’t final, it looks like we had more shoppers than last year! The Market Board couldn’t have done it without the support of every volunteer in the League and all of our generous sponsors, so thank you to each and every one of you!

Our 21st annual Mistletoe Market kicked off Wednesday, November 5 with a Sip, Shop & Mingle Preview Party held at the Cox Convention Center in downtown OKC. With nearly 800 people attending this year, the first 250 through the doors received reusable swag bags filled with goods from local businesses. Shoppers enjoyed food from 10 different local restaurants, including Pie Junkie and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, live music from Born in November, featuring C+, cocktails and of course shopping! Nearly 100 vendors

Children were able to decorate a cookie during the Breakfast with Santa event.

4 DECEMBER 2014

from across the country filled the exhibit hall, showcasing food, clothing, home décor, holiday decorations, jewelry and so much more. And if the vendors weren’t enough, at the center of it all was a silent auction raising nearly $8,000!

Mistletoe Market is the Junior League of Oklahoma City’s largest fundraiser, and with record numbers for ticket sales and money raised in the silent auction, it’s fair to say a good time was had by all for a great cause!

Mistletoe Market was a great one for many reasons. One of which is the numerous compliments from merchants and shoppers regarding the graciousness of the Junior League of Oklahoma City Members. What a wonderful accomplishment for us to be able to say, “Oklahoma City is considered one of the nicest Leagues in the country!” We hope you enjoyed working with us at the Cox Convention Center and we thoroughly appreciate your support of

such an iconic event that provides benefits to so many agencies in the greater Oklahoma City area.

One of the fundraisers included in Market is our super soft t-shirts! Did you purchase a t-shirt and forget to pick it up?

Did you see everyone with their shirt and are jealous you didn’t get one? Please stop by headquarters between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday thru Friday, to pick one up for only $15.

Each morning, we had a very long line of shoppers waiting to get in the door and spend their money - it was a sight to see! Thank you for promoting our event and sharing your quota tickets with your friends and family. We loved seeing how many shoppers came through our doors this year!

On behalf of the Mistletoe Market Board, thank you for your support and commitment to this year’s event. We appreciate each of you so much!

Our 21st annual Mistletoe Market kicked off Wednesday, November 5 with a Sip, Shop & Mingle Preview Party.

JLOC Hits the Runway at Classen Curve’s Fashion Show

JLOC benefited from the Classen Curve’s Fashion Show held on Thursday, September 4. Members of the League modeled the latest fashions from Liberte, C/K & CO., Ruth Meyers, Red Coyote and Members of the Mistletoe Market Board pose with Santa during Market.

Lululemon. Members also had their hair and makeup done. The event raised $1,000 for our Annual Campaign, which plays a vital role in allowing the JLOC to fulfill its mission and goals each year.

Mistletoe Market 2014 saw record numbers for ticket sales and money raised in the silent auction.

 (Top) Members of the League modeled the latest fashions.

New this year, children and their families attended the Breakfast with Santa event.

(Bottom) The event raised $1,000 for our Annual Campaign.

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Scene

Junior League President- Elect Nazette ZudhiCleaver, David Brown and Junior League President Kristi Leonard.

The meeting was held at the Will Rogers Theatre in Oklahoma City.

GMM Highlights JLOC BEGINS 5-YEAR HEALTH FOCUS WITH BIGGEST LOSER’S DAVID BROWN

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he Junior League of Oklahoma City officially began its five-year focus in health and wellness during the September General Membership Meeting. The meeting was held on Tuesday, September 9, in a new location this year, the Will Rogers Theatre. Our special guest was

Edmond’s own David Brown, runner up in NBC’s Biggest Loser weight loss reality show. Brown talked about his fight to lose more than 54% of his body weight during the contest, improving his health, outlook on life and his commitment to inspire, challenge and change those who are ready to fight for their own health.

LITT L E L E AGUE RS

President Kristi Leonard addresses the crowd during the September General Membership Meeting.

“Having a baby is a life-changer. ”—TAYLOR HANSON

2015 GMM SCHEDULE General Membership Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at the Will Rogers Theatre at 7 p.m. with social hour beginning at 6 p.m.

JANUARY 13 FEBRUARY 9

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APRIL 13 MAY 11

Rhett Robertson Prykryl Born February 13, 2014 Parents are Jonathan & Beth Prykryl

Ward Wilson Walters Born October 23, 2014 Parents are Marcus & Chandler Walters

Health Focus “Rows” On During October GMM

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e continued our inaugural season of health and wellness at the October General Membership Meeting on October 14. Members gathered at The Will Rodgers Theatre where Mr. Mike Knopp, the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Boathouse Foundation and Head Rowing Coach of Oklahoma City University, spoke to the audience about the history and future of rowing and water sports in Oklahoma.

Knopp said it took a lot of hard work and community effort to create and develop the Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River, where the once drainage site is now a premier Olympic Training Facility.

 (Top) Mr. Mike Knopp, the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Boathouse Foundation and Head Rowing Coach of Oklahoma City University was the guest speaker during the October GMM at Will Rogers Theatre on October 14.

(Bottom) Two Olympic rowing hopefuls for Team USA demonstrated ergometers during the meeting.

www.shirleykayphotography.com

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DIY Workshop at The Plant Shoppe

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omen of the JLOC attended a DIY workshop on Saturday, August 9, at The Plant Shoppe in Oklahoma City.

The class allowed participants to learn how to design, create and maintain a succulent terrarium.

Coffee Break

Sustainers with the JLOC met at the home of Mrs. Shirley Blaik on Tuesday, October 14 for some coffee and conversation with members of the Board of Directors and MM Board.

 (Top) Jennifer Blackwood and Whitney Hooten.

(Bottom) From left: Leah Sullivan, Jennifer Privett, Laura Sesock and Lauren Hauschild.

MEMBERSHIP REINSTATEMENT Holly Healey (S) – from Dallas to Sustainer in OKC Laura Hine (A) – to transfer to Springfield, MO Marla Van Zant (S) Resignations Ashley Bright (P) Morgan Burns (P) Dana Culton (A) Emily Embrey (P) Adepeju Faboro (P) Brittany Redmond (P) Crystal Rowley (A) Carlisha Williams (P) LOA (ALL EFFECTIVE UNTIL JUNE 31, 2015) Adrienne Elias Kelly Guinn Kimberly Thetford Heape Alisha Kaighen (A) Sormeh Slater MATERNITY LOA LaTasha Givens PENDING TRANSFER OUT Kelly Edson (A) to Denver, CO

8 DECEMBER 2014

COMPLETED TRANSFER IN Diana Endicott from Tulsa, OK Marcy Gilbert (A) from Montgomery, AL Stephanie Kazenske (A) from Fort Worth, TX Jennifer Kubes (A) from Dallas, TX Katy Lang Kristin Mantell (P) from San Diego, CA Marcy Novak Gilbert Shaina Wilkens (A) from Canton, OH COMPLETED TRANSFER OUT Kristen Baker (P) to Dallas, TX Nancy Burger (A) to Northwest AR League Randis Gallaway (A) to Midland, TX Jill Halloran (A) to Norman, OK Macey Hedges (A) to Wichita, KS Laura Hine (A) to Springfield, IL Lauren Lambeth (A) to Wichita, KS Courtney Olsen (A) to Norman, OK Julia Stroble (A) to New Orleans, LA Amanda Wente (P) to Houston, TX

CONGRATULATIONS Meredith Armstrong, baby girl Emily Campbell, baby Meghan Dunn, marriage Hillary Farrel, baby girl Stephanie Gannaway, birth of son LaTasha Givens, virth of son Jill Halloran, baby Margaux Lippoldt, baby girl Amy Parrish, baby girl Laura Sesock, marriage Chandler Walters – baby boy CARE AND CONCERN/ CONDOLENCES Meredith Armstrong, baby girl Emma Sarah Highsaw, death of mother Beverly Kanaly, death of mother Patti Leeman, death of husband Lynn Mills, death of mother Betty Jean Moler, Sustainer Emeritus Mary Truss (S), passed away Deferring Provisionals Caryn Brooks (P) Paige Dodson (P) Anika Wilson – Health Issues

“Goodnight OKC” BOOKS STILL AVAILABLE

JOIN JUNIOR LEAGUE ON SOCIAL MEDIA! INSTAGRAM @jl_okc TWITTER @jl_okc FACEBOOK Facebook.com/JLOC.IMPACT + MMKT FACEBOOK Facebook.com/MistletoeMarketOKC Please use the official hashtags of #JLOC and #MistletoeMarket so we can see your posts!

H

ave you bought your copy yet? Need a gift? JLOC’s latest publication, “Goodnight OKC,” is the perfect gift for kids in a classroom to share or for your children or grandchildren to develop their reading skills while celebrating our amazing city. Remember, all proceeds from this book go directly into our Junior League projects to support our community partners.

Buy your copy online at www.jloc.org or at these local retailers: BEST OF BOOKS CINNAMON BEARS FULL CIRCLE BOOKSTORE GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM MARISSA’S ROOM OKLAHOMA NATIONAL MEMORIAL MUSEUM

THE LEARNING TREE

ON A WHIM

UPTOWN KIDS

THE FLEURISTE

WOODY CANDY CO.

www.howellgallery.com

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JLOC “Kicks Off” Health Focus during OKC Energy Game Board Member Jenifer Randle shows her support of the OKC Energy.

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he JLOC kicked off a new focus in health by attending the OKC Energy’s final game of the season on Sunday, August 24, at Pribil Stadium. “Soccer is a wonderful sport that exhibits the highest levels of physical and

JLOC President Kristi Leonard and family celebrate her daughter’s birthday at the Energy match.

mental fitness,” said Junior League President Kristi Leonard. Despite high temperatures more than 60 JLOC Members turned out to support the new franchise and the League’s new five year focus in health and wellness.

Laurie Nordstrom attends the OKC Energy game with other JLOC Members.

FALL GARDEN TRAINING: “THRILLER, FILLER AND SPILLER” A fall garden training was held at Headquarters on Saturday, September 27. Elizabeth Richardson, owner of Adorn, showed participants a variety of gardening techniques to enjoy continued blooms through frost. Participants learned the key to a great container garden is having a “Thriller, Filler and Elizabeth Richardson, owner of Adorn, showed participants how to plant a container garden.

10 DECEMBER 2014

Spiller,” as they selected greenery and flowering plants to pot.

From left: Heather Messer, Summer DeFehr, Kayli Christensen, Jaclyn Christensen, Whitney PorchVanHeuvelen, Elizabeth Richardson and Jamie Manoles.

Governor Mary Fallin Reads “Goodnight OKC” at 2014 Septemberfest The Junior League of Oklahoma City joined Governor Mary Fallin at the 18th Annual Septemberfest in Oklahoma City Saturday September 6.

The Governor read the children’s book

“Goodnight OKC” to attendees during the festivities of the day. The Junior League created the book to mark the end of a 10 year literacy campaign.

 Governor Mary Fallin reads the Junior League sponsored book, “Goodnight OKC” during Septemberfest.  (Top) Governor Mary Fallin and Junior League of Oklahoma City President Kristi Leonard.

(Bottom) JLOC Members set up a tent and promoted the League’s new health focus during Septemberfest.

Families Get Crafty During Fall-Themed Pinterest Party THE JLOC HELD A FALL-THEMED PINTEREST PARTY ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 AT HEADQUARTERS. DURING THE CRAFT TRAINING, CHILDREN DECORATED PUMPKINS WHILE THE ADULTS MADE BURLAP WREATHS.

Katie Blaik James Real Estate Broker Associate

KEESEE & COMPANY, INC.

6421 Avondale Dr., Suite 209B, OKC, OK 73116 405.842.8841 office 405.842.1775 fax OKCKatie@gmail.com 11

Scene

JLOC Board Members Take the ALS Challenge Board Members take the ALS Challenge at Headquarters on Friday, August 22. The Junior Leagues of New Orleans and Fort Worth put us up to the challenge. President Kristi Leonard along with her Board Members then challenged the Junior Leagues of Norman and Tulsa, as well as the AJLI Board of Directors. The ladies also made a personal donation.

STAR & ABC AWARDS 12 DECEMBER 2014

From left: President-Elect Nazette Zuhdi, President Kristi Leonard, Membership VP Jamie Maddy, Administrative VP Jenifer Randle and Communications VP Kristen Ferate.

ABC AWARD

STAR AWA R D

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

Wendi Shipp

Vanessa Peterson & Kate Ward

Community Coordinator

Kids on Track

OCTOBER

OCTOBER

Sheena Karami

Stacie Evans

READ Chair

Variety Pack

JUNIOR GROUPS BRING MEMBERS

TOGETHER

ELIZABETH RICHARDSON elizabeth@adornokc.com

The JLOC created Junior Groups this year, which pairs up Members based on common interests. Join one today! Here is a list of the current Junior Groups:

405.255.1730

www.facebook.com/adornokc

WOMEN IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP BOOK CLUB PLAYDATE RUNNING FUN IN FITNESS (GROUP CLASSES) CRAFTING/KNITTING COOKING GENEALOGY If you would like to join any of the groups or have an idea for a new group topic, please contact Alexis Lux at alexislux@gmail.com or (405) 312-6355.

 (Top) The Knitting Junior Group met at Headquarters on Sunday, August 17. From left: Lorna Swinney, Daniella Knighten, Paula Wackenheim, Janet Daugherty and Mei Cheng.

sklove@me.com www.shannonlovephotography.com

(Bottom) The Book Club Junior Group held its first meeting at Headquarters on Saturday, August 30. The club members read “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn.

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Profile [ people ]

JLOC Member Leslie Buford Runs Boston Marathon

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By Holly Renee Moore

LOC Member Leslie Buford has been running for over 30 years. She first fell in love with the sport in fourth grade when she had to run a mile for the Presidential Physical Fitness Test.

“I placed third among everyone

14 DECEMBER 2014

in the grade with a 7:14 mile.

Being hypercompetitive yet highly uncoordinated, I felt like I finally found a sport that I was good at and enjoyed,” she explains.

Leslie has enjoyed running consistently since then, but she hadn’t really thought about becoming a marathon runner until a few years ago.

“My running buddy called to invite me to join her and her husband in the San Antonio Marathon, and I thought it would be a fun experience. I signed up with the intention of being a ‘one and done’ marathoner.

That was six years and 12 marathons ago,” she laughs.

Leslie says she really got “marathon fever” when she first ran the Boston Marathon in 2009.

“The crowds are amazing,” she says. “About one million people turn out to watch the marathon, and it is 26.2 miles of street parties. You and your fellow runners are the guests of honor! Kids want to slap your hands, you are offered drinks of all flavors, and people are dressed in costumes and have some pretty awesome signs. If it is

hot outside, the spectators will buy popsicles for the runners and hose you off. Once you are in the final stretch, the crowds are six people deep, and it is so loud your ears are ringing. It definitely helps you make it to the finish line!”

She has run the Boston Marathon five out of the past six years, missing only 2013, the year of the tragic bombing.

“I actually didn’t qualify to run that year, due to the fact that it was extremely hot in 2012, and my time suffered. Not qualifying gave me a new appreciation for how hard it is to compete at a high level each time and to not take it as a given I will qualify each time,” she explains.

When she competed in the marathon this past spring, Leslie said there were several ceremonies throughout the weekend to honor the 2013 bombing victims, including a moment of silence prior to the start of the marathon.

“The city had also put pots of daffodils all along the finish line,

“I signed up with the intention of being a ‘one and done’ marathoner.

That was six years and 12 marathons ago ...” and spontaneous memorials sprung up at the site where the two bombs went off. There was a lot of peace and love that weekend,” she says.

“The best way that they honored the victims was allowing the race to go on and allowing the crowds to do their thing.”

In addition to the 12 marathons she has competed in, Leslie has run four half marathons, and six 25k races. Earlier this year, she competed in the Houston

15

Profile Marathon, where she earned her fastest race time of 3:15:56. She also plans to run the Dallas White Rock Marathon this December, and she will be running the Boston Marathon again in April 2015.

Leslie says that when she is training for a marathon, she runs about 65 to 70 miles per week. In addition to running, she also weight

“I use the time to think through problems at work, to zone out, and to just focus on my body’s ability to run and enjoy nature.” trains three to five days per week.

“I have the two best training buddies in my cocker spaniels, Betsy Ross and Carlie Brown. We go on at least two walks a day, seven days a week! They guilt trip me with ‘sad dog face’ if we miss a walk,” she laughs.

With all of that training, it would definitely be easy for most people to get burnt out, but Leslie truly loves the sport and everything that comes with it.

“I love when I can feel my body get into its rhythm, and I love that I can control how hard or how easy I make my run by adding speed or distance,” she offers. “I love having the streets virtually to myself in the mornings, and I love how my body slices through the air, especially on cool days. I love competing, especially when I can beat many of the men!”

With JLOC’s new health focus, Members may be looking for ways to become more active and healthy.

Leslie believes running is a great

16 DECEMBER 2014

way to do this.

“Running is a full-body workout.

It is also relatively easy to start – you only need a good pair of shoes and running clothes to get started.

Running outside is free, so it is economical as well. You have the ability to control your workout so you can adjust the level of difficulty as you go,” she offers.

Leslie believes that running is beneficial both physically and mentally. “I’m a Type-A personality and get stressed out frequently,” she says. “Running helps me get centered and focused to start my

day. I use the time to think through problems at work, to zone out, and to just focus on my body’s ability to run and enjoy nature. I think it is healing for mind, body, and soul.”

She also sees running as a great way to make friends. “I have friends that I still keep in touch with from my high school cross country team and have met so many people here in OKC through running,” she explains. Leslie runs with OKC Landrunners, but JLOC has also recently started a Junior Group focused on running for any interested Members.

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Profile

GIRLS ON THE BLOCK Valerie Aubert SUSTAINER

What’s your favorite “cheat treat” around the holidays?

Homemade chocolate fudge and Aunt Bill’s candy.

What’s your go-to healthy option for the holiday season?

Fresh cranberry salsa.

What’s a fun way to balance those extra calories with a healthy lifestyle?

Listening to holiday music while walking- of course I love to walk even when it’s cold.

Please share a favorite holiday memory (doesn’t have to be

Lauren Lembo PROVISIONAL

What’s your favorite “cheat treat” around the holidays?

Hands down my Mom’s iced sugar cookies!

What’s your go-to healthy option for the holiday season?

Homemade pumpkin bread.

What’s a fun way to balance those extra calories with a healthy lifestyle?

Growing up my family would always take strolls in the neighborhood park to collect walnuts and pecans to eat throughout the holiday season.

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Please share a favorite holiday memory (doesn’t have to be health-related, just a fun memory!)

I live for decorating my parent’s Christmas tree back in Texas every year which always ends with me climbing on my Dad’s shoulders to put the Angel on top. The Angel will be an interesting feat this year, because I will be eight months pregnant! It might be time to start a new tradition, or use a ladder!

health-related, just a fun memory!)

I have a bunch as was always my mom’s favorite time of year.

Probably one would be the year I got a big outdoor playhouse.

My dad and his best friend brought it into our backyard in pieces and assembled it after I went to sleep Christmas Eve. I’m told when I saw it Christmas morn, I said ‘there must be a Santa Claus ‘cause there’s no other explanation.’ I didn’t think my dad could ever have done it. Of course I still believe in Santa!

9119 north western avenue oklahoma city, oklahoma 73114

thefleuriste.com 405.843.8700

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Focus [ projects ]

Inside the Workout: Barre3

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By Kristen Gaddis

ver dream of being a ballerina or at least having the body of one? Our JLOC small fitness group plied their way through a Barre3 class in Midtown to see just what it takes. From toning, lifting and lengthening to strength and balance, Barre3 is an amazing hybrid workout that combines the disciplines of Pilates, Yoga and Ballet.

If you are looking for the same sense of community you get at JLOC, then throw on your yoga clothes and grab

some friends to try this new workout for yourself.

“Oh I loved it,” said Kaydee Cunningham, who made it out with our small fitness group. “The instructor was great and really worked with all levels. My legs were shaking the whole time! The instructor called them the Barre Earthquakes.”

Barre3 truly has a workout for everyone. No matter if you are 20 or 75, workout religiously or are just getting started, their instructors have modifications personalized for each

Members of the Fun in Fitness Junior Group met for a Barre3 class on Wednesday, October 1 at the Barre3 studio in Midtown.

20 DECEMBER 2014

Members followed a vigorous pace moving through a sequence of postures designed to shape and lift the entire body.

individual. Don’t let health restriction or being a mom hold you back. Two of their three locations offer childcare and Barre3 can tailor a workout for sports injuries, pre and postnatal.

Barre3 is about building a foundation for a healthy life, not just another fad workout.

Barre3 offers an introductory three classes for $30 so if you aren’t sure about the investment or benefits, sign up and give it a try. You will feel what Barre3 can do for you. Members enjoy all kinds of perks such as online classes, great recipes and healthy tips. Barre3 is the solution that will help you shed unwanted pounds, build strength and transform your entire body. Let your inner ballerina shine!

Barre3 combines the ballet barre with yoga and Pilates.

Amachi

BY MEGHAN DUNN

T

he Junior League’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters has allowed Members to touch the lives of area children through its school based mentoring program. Volunteers go through an extensive matching process to match them with the perfect Little Sister to mentor on a one-on-one basis during the school day.

Volunteering with BBBS can be fun and fulfilling. Volunteers get to develop an ongoing relationship with their little sister.

Volunteers also have the opportunity to help shape a child’s life for the future by empowering them to achieve more by helping them build their self-confidence.

JLOC Member Paula Schick has been matched with her little sister Ashley for three years and loves being part of the Amachi Program.

“I just like the fact that we can all touch each other’s lives by doing little things together, by just being there and showing children how important they are,” Schick said. “We can also mentor to them, that they can do so much themselves to make their dreams come true if they work and study hard.”

While Schick loves to do many activities with her little sister, they really enjoy making cards and small gifts for all of the people who are important in her life.

“I believe that when kids have confidence in themselves that they are good and competent people, it makes all the difference for them and these are the reasons why I love to do Amachi,” Schick said.

Like Schick, Project Manager Meghan Dunn has been matched with her little sister for three years too.

“Over the past three years, I have enjoyed meeting with my little sister,” Dunn said. “It warms my heart when she says that Tuesday is her favorite day of the week because that’s when I come to visit her. As she entered middle school this year she was very anxious about going to a new school. I have loved seeing her thrive in middle school this year. I have a tendency to get “busy” but I am always happy to set aside a few hours of my Tuesday to visit my little sister because I enjoy seeing her and I am seeing the positive difference having a mentor is making in her life.”

The Amachi program provides ongoing one-on-one mentoring to directly impact the children of OKC.

Services include but are not limited to:

www.LauraLynnsHomeCare.com

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Focus

Healthy Practices for Survivors of Domestic Violence VOLUNTEERS BEGIN NEW PROJECT

BY KRYSTAL MURER

T

his fall, JLOC volunteers began a new project with the Oklahoma City YWCA - Healthy Practices for Survivors of Domestic Violence. It invites residents at the YWCA battered women’s shelter to participate in bimonthly sessions aimed at offering tips for establishing healthy habits. For both the women and their children, JLOC volunteers provide opportunities for physical activity, an art project, a healthy snack and information about

22 DECEMBER 2014

local health resources.

Before the project began in September, JLOC volunteers attended a four-hour orientation and training with the YWCA, which better prepared us for the scenarios we might experience while spending time inside the shelter. The orientation covered privacy, confidentiality, how to react to things the ladies share and YWCA policies and procedures.

During the sessions, the children enjoy story time or an art project

while their mothers participate in a session about a health topic. JLOC volunteers selected a health topic from the “Healthy People 2020” project and a date to present. They select a speaker or an activity for the night; pick out a healthy snack to provide and an activity for the kids. For example, one session had a focus on physical activity.

We played “Physical Activity” bingo, practiced each type of exercise on the bingo cards, enjoyed fresh fruits and veggies and decorated coloring sheets

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Volunteers (left to right): Krystal Murer, Belinda Tricinella, Ilana Sharpe, Leah Rausch, Jessica Hunt, and Allison Lawrence.

of veggie characters playing sports.

Having the opportunity for JLOC Members to volunteer inside the shelter provides the chance to more closely interact with the women at the shelter.

This placement is great for Members and Provisionals who are seeking a developing placement that they have the ability to influence the progression for future years.

your holidays Stop in our greenhouse for unique hostess gifts and holiday arrangements 5308 N. CLASSEN BLVD 405.848.6642 www.CALVERTS.com

23

Et Cetera [ various ]

Make Your Holiday Shopping Count

d

HIDDEN APPLE! EMAIL DEANNE MCGEHEE (DEANNEMCGEHEE@GMAIL.COM) IF YOU SPOT THE RED APPLE. THOSE WHO FIND IT WILL BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING

By Heather Davey

uring this holiday season please make sure to select the Junior League of Oklahoma City every time you make a purchase on Amazon.com.

With Amazon’s addition of Amazon Smile, that is now a reality. You shop and Amazon gives back to the Junior League of Oklahoma City. For every eligible purchase, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase price to the League at no cost to you. You shop the same products, selection, price, and convenience of Amazon.com. You can even use your existing account.

Simply go to www.smile.amazon.com to join. Sign in to your existing account or open a new account. Select “Junior League of Oklahoma City Okla Incorporated” from the charities listed. It takes less than two minutes.

Please make sure you return to www. smile.amazon.com each time you order from Amazon.

I know we all make an effort to shop local, but there are times when we

FIND THE

go online to order that perfect item we could not find locally. With the addition of Amazon Smile, you can now feel good about that choice.

Speaking of shopping local, the Junior League of Oklahoma City welcomed Kendra Scott to Classen Curve in grand style on October 15. The Financial Development Committee would like to thank everyone who made a purchase. Due to our amazing Members, the League received 20 percent of sales from the grand opening party which added $4,238.30 to the Annual Campaign.

Our partnership with the store was a huge success for Kendra Scott and for the League. Thank you to everyone that came out and shopped.

As of October 31, the League has raised $32,365.66 for the Annual Campaign. If you would like to donate to the Annual Campaign, please check out our link on the JLOC.org homepage or contact Heather Davey at 405-642-8562.

FOR A PRIZE!

The glasses were hiding here in the July 2014 issue!

CONGRATS! - - - - - - - - - - T O ----------

Matilda Clements FOR FINDING THE HIDDEN GLASSES IN THE SEPTEMBER 2014 ISSUE AND WINNING!

24 DECEMBER 2014

ASPARAGUS SOUP From: Tori Raines, Active INGREDIENTS 2 bushels fresh asparagus (cut into 1” pieces, remove the woody stems) 1 white onion (diced) 2-3 new potatoes, cut into small pieces 3-5 cloves of garlic (minced) 3 cups Chicken broth (could sub in veggie broth to make a vegetarian dish) Cayenne pepper Paprika Salt and pepper (to taste) DIRECTIONS In a Dutch oven (or large saucepan) over medium heat, combine garlic and onion with a splash of olive oil and ½ cup of chicken

broth. Let the onions and garlic sauté until the onion becomes transparent. Then add in the cut asparagus pieces, potatoes, and the rest of the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. After it reaches boiling temp, lower the heat and simmer the soup (covered) for approximately 25-35 minutes. Add a pinch of the cayenne (or however much your mouth can take!) and paprika, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Once the asparagus and potatoes are nice and soft, remove the soup mixture from heat. Using an immersion blender (or you can simply pour the entire mixture into a traditional blender) liquefy the soup mixture until it has a nice silky texture. Enjoy! (I promise, it looks a little bit like baby food but it is DELISH and a crowd pleaser!)

www.westminsterschool.org

25

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Bookshelf Q U E S T I O N S:

1. What book are you currently reading?

2. What is your favorite book of all time and why?

3. What is your favorite children’s book?

4. What is your “go-to” cookbook?

Sarah Grose

Grace Meyer

Mote Nickel

Active

Provisional

Active

1. “Think Like a Freak” by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner.

2. Very difficult to choose, but probably either “The Sirens of Titan” by Kurt Vonnegut, because it’s funny and creative and I love the way Vonnegut writes, or “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand, because she takes what is essentially a piece of political propaganda and turns it into an epic romance novel and I get completely sucked in every time I read it.

3. The Anne of Green Gables series. I’ve read all of the books so many times I could probably recite them from memory, and I still love them today.

4. I get most recipes off of the Internet (I highly recommend Dinner, A Love Story), but I do own (and occasionally leaf through) all of Nigella Lawson’s beautiful cookbooks – more for her words and pictures than the actual recipes themselves.

1. “Voyager” by Diana Gabaldon. The Outlander series has everything you could ask for- romance, adventure, time-travel and a hot Scot!

2. I’ll always love “Harry Potter” as it gave me a love for reading as a child. “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George J.R.R. Martin is currently my favorite series as an adult. The world Martin created draws you in, and his characters are very complex.

There is no black and white.

3. “Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch. It’s such a sweet story that holds a special place in my childhood.

4. “America’s Test Kitchen.” I’m definitely no chef, but when I feel like cooking, their recipes never fail!

1. I actually just wrapped up reading “Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity” by Katherine Boo (2012).

It’s a non-fiction piece that covers the life of the residents living in the present-day slums of Mumbai.

2. I think most everyone was required to read “The Great Gatsby,” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, in high school; but I’m sure I didn’t appreciate it fully until I picked it up in my early 20’s. Yes, it’s the most American of tales, but what captures me is the love story. What at first seems like a timeless love is soon realized as a narcissistic obsession with the past. To some degree, I think we can all relate to Gatsby, his flawed perception of love and the true sense of loss he experiences throughout

26 DECEMBER 2014

the novel. And let’s not forget that Fitzgerald is a prose magician. It’s truly a wonderful read.

3. My favorite children’s book was and is anything in the original Nancy Drew Mystery Stories series. I specifically remember enjoying “The Secret of the Old Clock” and “The Mysterious Mannequin,” though my 10-year-old girl would hardly agree with my sentiments.

4. “In A Persian Kitchen: Favorite Recipes from the Near East” by Maideh Mazda really simplifies Persian cooking and is one I use often. “Food of Life: Ancient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and Ceremonies” by Najmieh Batmanglij is more complex, but a great resource as well!

NEARLY-wEdS SPONSORED BY

ShARE YouR Big dAY!

Keisha Schultz & Matthew Landry To Be Wed: April 25, 2015 in

Oklahoma City, OK

To announce your engagement or wedding in the League Link, go to the Members Only portion of the jloc.org website and submit your requested information. The NearlyWed/Newly Wed form is located under the Forms/References tab.

If you would like to submit a photo, please send it to Leah Jackson at leah@bobjacksonlaw.com

 To announce your wedding in Brides of Oklahoma Magazine, contact us at 405-607-2902 or visit www.thebridesofoklahoma.com

JuNioR LEAguERS REcEivE $100 off YouR ANNouNcEmENt iN BRidES of okLAhomA mAgAziNE

27

Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

MISSION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

VISION The Junior League of Oklahoma City, Inc. will empower volunteers to impact our community and enrich lives.

FOCUS Women Building a Better Oklahoma City

Thank you for advertising with us!

Adorn Brides of Oklahoma Calverts The Fleuriste

Keesee & Company, Inc. Laura Lynn’s Homecare Linda C. Howell & Assoc.

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Increase your business and advertise with us!

Get on board for the 2014-2015 League Link year and start advertising. The circulation is over 1,500 and sent to not only JLOC members but also to numerous businesses and community organizations.

Special rates are available for all League Members; Actives, Sustainers and Provisionals.

W W W. J L O C . O R G

Shannon Love Photography Shirley Kay Photography Warhall Designs Westminster School

Contact Leah Jackson, League Link Business Manager, for more information at leah@bobjacksonlaw.com.

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