JLCD League Lines

Celebrating Recruitment Events

2009-08-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

This summer, the Membership Development Committee coordinated several wonderful recruitment events at the Clearwater Main Library, Jimmy's Fish House, and home of JLCD members. Thank you Kelly Borota, Diane Gobo, Jenna Franklin and Sarah Miller for opening your homes to members and prospective members.

Members and prospectives enjoyed fellowship, wonderful food and information about membership. The Membership Development Committee provided detailed information through a slide show. Thank you to everyone for making these wonderful events.

These events give us the opportunity to mingle over the summer, and share the value of being a member of the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin

First Social at Red Bamboo Medi Spa was Awesome!

2009-07-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

The Red Bamboo Medi Spa on McMullen Booth at the Northwood Plaza sponsored our first social on June 25, 2009. Over 50 members enjoyed complimentary appetizers, beverages, a tour and a complimentary gift bag with over $250 of gift certificates including a massage and facial.

A Huge Thanks to Red Bamboo Medi Spa for sponsoring this event!

First Information Session - a wonderful event

2009-06-17T07:20:00.001-07:00

Our first information session at the Clearwater Main Library for prospective members was wonderful. The event was well advertised...annoucements were seen in the Clearwater Beacon and heard on local radio stations. Five prospectives attended to learn about JLCD and the new provisional course.

There are other recruitment events that are scheduled for this summer. Please RSVP to let us know you are coming!

It's time to RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS!!!

2009-05-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

The Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin is only successful because of our members. OK, this may seem obvious, but it does take a village to fulfill our mission.

This year, please save the dates for these important recuitment events. The membership development committee also requests that you RSVP, either on-line or to jlclwdun@aol.com.

The recruitment events are:

Information Sessions

June 16—Clearwater Main Library, 6pm
July 29 –Happy Hour at Jimmy's Fish House

Salad Suppers
August 4—Belleair at the home of Kelly Borota at 6:30pm
August 6—Dunedin at the home of Jenna Franklin at 6:30pm
August 11—Oldsmar at the home of Sarah Miller at 6:30pm
August 18 –Palm Harbor at the home of Diane Gobo at 6:30pm

Palm Harbor couple renovate RCS Grace House kids' room in Clearwater

2009-05-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

From the St Pete Times, May 14, 2009

Note: Diane Gobo is a current member and former President

Marc and Terry Banning of Palm Harbor have learned a lot in three years of volunteering at RCS Grace House, but this might be the biggest lesson: Much more can be done if you ask others to work with you. "We believe that if you show someone how to help others, they will," Marc Banning said Wednesday.

He was speaking at the dedication of a newly renovated children's activity and donation room at RCS Grace House in Clearwater. Grace House, part of the nonprofit Religious Community Services, has 13 apartments at 1552 S Myrtle Ave. for families with children who would otherwise be homeless.

"We appreciate everybody," said Terry Banning. "It was just so overwhelming — complete strangers offering to help us." The Bannings and the help they recruited donated materials and labor and worked for eight weeks to renovate the run-down building. It got a new air conditioner, new windows, plumbing fixtures, shelves, cabinets, flooring, light fixtures, fans, paint, murals and butterfly plants. Just about everything is new except the small chairs, refinished with multi-colored paint and painted butterflies.

The Gillian's Rainbow Room & Butterfly Garden is dedicated to a bright, vivacious and engaging little girl, Gillian Gobo, who lived across the street from the Bannings. She died in her sleep of unknown causes in February 2008 when she was nearly 2 years old. She had a slight fever that afternoon, but no other symptoms.

"We knew we wanted to do something special for the family," said Terry Banning. "We were very close to the family and very close to Gillian." The Bannings own a lumberyard, Banning Lumber and Millwork in Largo, and they started volunteering at RCS Grace House three years ago. They adopted one of the apartments there for homeless families and they encouraged their employees to volunteer. The Bannings and their employees provide maintenance, cleanup and more for one of the three-bedroom, 1 1/2 bath apartments.

When Gillian died, the Bannings looked for a new project that they could accomplish in the young girl's name. Marc Banning noticed that the Junior League had donated the children's activity/multi-purpose room years ago. It was unorganized and had grown dilapidated.
Diane Gobo, Gillian's mother and a nurse anesthetist, is a past Junior League president, so Marc thought updating and renovating the room for children would be the perfect project for remembering Gillian.

Her father is Dr. Dean Gobo, a neurosurgeon with Morton Plant Mease. The Gobos have two older daughters, Emily, 10, and Victoria, 9. "Our family feels so honored to have this place in honor of Gillian," Diane Gobo said Wednesday. "We cannot thank Terry and Marc enough."
"Hopefully, this will raise awareness of RCS," said Dean Gobo. "This room is about renewal and rebirth."

Gillian loved the outdoors, the moon, stars, plants and flowers.
If Gillian could have been there Wednesday, she no doubt would have loved the butterfly garden and its new inhabitants. Butterflies in paper packets were distributed throughout the large crowd, many of whom contributed to the project. "How can they breathe?" asked Emily Gobo.
When the packets were opened, Victoria's butterfly landed on her paper packaging and stayed with her. Finally, she put it in a box. Diane Gobo said her daughter will release it at home, in the front yard near the wisteria tree they planted in Gillian's memory.

Theresa Blackwell can be reached at tblackwell@sptimes.com or (727) 445-4170

Tampa Bay Magazine

2009-05-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

In their May/June 2009 issue, Tampa BayMagazine named Art Harvest as the best art festival in their Best of the Bay issue. This is quite an honor, and one, I believe (as I am sure you all will agree) is well deserved.

Thank you to all that volunteer to ensure Art Harvest's success!

Salon Day for Foster Children

2009-05-04T12:44:00.001-07:00

“Savvy Salon” DIAD a Huge Success!!- by Nola Johnson

The stylists at “Savvy Salon” in Clearwater were our gracious hosts on Sunday, May 3rd from 12-6 p.m. for FREE haircuts and styles for children in foster care in Pinellas & Pasco counties. Salon owner, Maryann Hauser, and nine stylists were on hand for a six-hour “hair marathon” as they cut and styled hair for 64 foster children aged 3 to 21!

“We wanted to give back to the community and thought this would be a great way to do it. We are thankful for the opportunity to do something that the children need but can’t always afford, in a fun environment”, said Maryann. One group from a local foster home brought in handmade cards of thanks for the stylists, with words of appreciation like “Thank you for doing my family’s hair. I appreciate what you are doing. It was nice of you to do that for us”. It was a very heartwarming experience to see the “before and afters” and the smiles on the faces of the children when they saw themselves with their new hairstyles. They each walked a little taller on their way out!

JLCD ladies were on hand to provide hairstyle advice, drinks, snacks, sweep floors and assist the stylists by washing guests’ hair! Thank you to members Jenna Franklin, Julie Halladay, Molly Barber, Kelley Miller, Colleen Flynn and Nola Johnson for being there to help put a smile on these sweet faces, and to the ladies and gentlemen of “Savvy Salon” for providing a wonderful service to these children and for becoming a community partner to the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin.

It was a GREAT day and we could not have made it happen without you!

Art Harvest receives a prestigious AJLI Award!!

2009-04-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

The Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin received Honorable Mention for The Association of Junior Leagues International’s prestigious “JL” Award for Fund Development at the organization’s 87th Annual Conference in Atlanta last week.

This is a very important award and we received $1,000 for our efforts. On hand to receive the award were Meg Lokey and Kandy Forenza. AJLI Present Debbie Robinson presented the award along our incoming Community Vice-President, Kathy Rabon! Thank you to Sharon Gilberg for drafting this award winning application.

First Teen Foster Summit

2009-03-28T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the pleasure of participating in JLCD's first annual Teen Foster Summit at St. Pete College. About 80 foster teens joined us today to envision how they want their lives to be. Internationally known speaker Ian Hill began the day. Ian provided tools for the foster kids to help them succeed in life. It's not where you sleep that make you who you are. After Ian, the children enjoyed a "What to Wear and What not to Wear" fashion show. Jill Holcombe, Meg Lokey, Michael Lokey and Joanna Rosse provided the "What not to Wear" versions while Laura Redmond, Kelly Borota, Gail Christensen provided the "What to Wear" Molly Lucas and Erin Ester emceed and provided the tips. I learned that undergarments showing is never a good thing!

After pizza lunch, the kids went on to the afternoon sessions including communication skill building, checkbook balancing, and how to formulate an education plan. It was exciting to hear their individual dreams!!!

Thanks to the force of JLCD volunteers for hosting a memorable event!

Can I solicit funds for another non-profit organization?

2009-03-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

As President, I am often asked by our members if it is OK to solicit donations or distribute marketing materials at JLCD events or use our mailing list for other fundraisers of another organization. The answer is NO.

Simply put, members of JLCD are supposed to be committed to JLCD's mission at JLCD events. Because JLCD members are outstanding members of our community, can you imagine what a flurry it would be if everyone brought solicitations for their non-JLCD causes?

AJLI and JLCD is an educational and charitable organization, not a networking organization. The educational component of our mission is the key to our organization of women. AJLI argued this point years ago, to successfully maintain an all women’s organization. The Junior League’s purpose is not to promote the business interests of members including other non-profit organizations.

If you ever have a question about if something is appropriate, please ask.

Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin Hosts 2nd Annual Foster Summit

2009-02-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, I had the privilege of facilitating a foster summit with foster stakeholders in Pinellas and Pasco counties. After our strategic plan last year, we decided to focus our efforts on foster families. Last year, we held the first foster summit to help us select our projects, and we have already implemented many of their suggestions.

This year, we had more attendance, and asked the same questions: What can the JLCD do to help in the short-term and the long-term? After we took notes (Thank you AMY), we then asked the participants to place a dot on their favorites---it's really voting by DOT-MOCRACY.

We received wonderful feedback from the stakeholder, and they would even like the summit to be more often than once a year!

Anyways, I couldn't have thought of any other place I would have rather been. It was a joy to see the impact we have already made on these organizations. We really fill a service they each need.

Thank you to all that helped make this happen--Nola Johnson, Debbie Smith, Terri Kontodiakos, Sharon Gilberg and Amy Connors.

Fostering Hope Special Event

2009-01-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

I thought you all may be interested---

Support Fostering Hope Florida!

Looking for a great way to get together with friends and have fun while helping foster children?
Why not come to Vintage Vanities and Retro Rags?The Vintage Fashion Show with a Burlesque Twist!!

Monday, February 2, Doors Open at 6:30pm - Curtain at 7:30pm

Where? The Show Palace, 16128 US Hwy 19 N., Hudson, FL 34667

Take a musical journey through the clothing styles of yesterday. A talented and attractive cast of dancers and actors bring to life fashions seen in classic movies, television and old photos.Your evening includes kick lines, comedy, history with a wink and the exclusive Human Disco Ball!
Vintage clothes available for sale before and after the show.

Cash Bar – 50/50 drawings

Benefiting Organizations Fostering Hope Florida and Pasco County Foster-Adoptive Association
Tickets are $15 per person. For more info, call Angela Hoerner at (727) 687-0639 or Gloria West Lawson at (727) 688-5328 or visit http://www.fosteringhopeflorida.com/.

You'll have a surprisingly good time - it is well worth the money. Besides, it goes to a great cause!! Join us, won't you?

Happy Holidays!!

2008-12-23T07:26:00.000-08:00

Holidays are a time to celebrate, and members of JLCD certainly enjoyed our share of parties. This year's General Membership Holiday Party, coordinated by the Arrangements Committee, was held at Jimmy's Fish House on Clearwater Beach. Members enjoyed fabulous treats--I particularly liked the coconut shrimp-- and reveled in our warm weather. There were also many other JLCD related parties held by individual committees, sustainers and provisionals. It was a great time to relax with our friends!

Guardian ad Litem

2008-12-09T08:12:00.000-08:00

For the January general meeting, Guardian At Litem will be joining us to educate us about this very important program. For information prior to the meeting, please visit their website, http://www.guardianadlitem.org/.

I also thought I would post this editorial from today's St. Petersburg Times.

Kids in foster care needn't fly solo Nov. 23
Guardian ad litem is lifeline for child

A recent story stated that children are appointed a guardian ad litem "to represent the child's 'best interest' when it comes to where they will live." Guardians ad litem do make those types of recommendations, but it is important to recognize that they do so much more. I am a pro bono attorney, who, like a number of others, volunteers through the 6th Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program. I have been involved with the program for the past eight years. I cannot say enough about the difference it makes in the lives of our children.

Three years ago, our local GAL Program established a Transitioning Youth Project, where lay and attorney volunteers were recruited and trained to work with youth 13 to 18 who faced aging out of foster care. We completed the GAL Program's "Fostering Independence" training. I am now a trained guardian ad litem attorney, and along with other volunteers and staff, advocate for the best interests and legal rights of these teens in foster care.

In this time of state budget deficits, the importance of the Guardian ad Litem Program cannot be understated. If anyone is interested in joining us to volunteer to help these teenagers, please call (727) 464-6528 or visit www.guardianadlitem6.org to learn more about the program and the role you can play in making a difference in these children's lives.

John E. Tuthill, St. Petersburg

Foster Angels

2008-11-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

For the past 4 years, the members of JLCD have generously provided holiday gifts to foster children. This year we still have 30 Foster Angel wish lists and we really need your help. Please email Abby Favali at abbyfavali@hotmail.com or Joanna Rosse at jojo7uf@gmail.com and we will email you a list.

We understand that this is much easier to get the kids off the website and we are still working on it. You can also call Abby at 727-365-4337.

If you know someone who can't take a wish list, but still wants to help, we can also take financial contributions to use toward the missing gifts.

2009 WEDU Be More Awards

2008-11-20T08:18:00.000-08:00

Every year, WEDU gives awards to community organizations.

This year, there are a number of organizations, including the The Progress Energy Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco and the Junior League of St. Petersburg, that recently submitted applications. In addition, there is a "Peoples choice" award, driven by votes from the general public. This prestigious award exhibits the connection and relationship the organzation has with the community and the people it serves. It also will honor the organization that most exemplifies the spirit of the community. The recipient of this award will receive a grant and a lot of related publicity and recognition.

The WEDU "People's Choice Poll" will be open for voting from November 19th through December 19th.

http://www.wedu.org/bemore/POLL.htm.

First JLCD Conference

2008-11-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

For our November meeting, the Education and Training Committee (Marcy Hawk, Beth Moser
and Nicole Sofarelli) coordinated our first ever conference at the Grand Hotel in Clearwater. JLCD members enjoyed a social hour followed by experienced professionals that shared their knowledge the following break-out sessions:

1. $how me the money!

2. Extra, Extra Read All About it!

3. Building Blocks of Event Planning

I know I sure learned a lot, and depending on the feedback we receive from the surveys, another conference may be on the horizon in the Spring!

Thanks again to the Education and Training Committee!

Another successful Art Harvest

2008-11-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

The 45th Annual Art Harvest took place this past weekend in Highlander Park, Dunedin. The week began with a Patron Party, held at the home of City of Dunedin Commissioner Deborah Kynes. On Thursday and Friday, many league members and friends spent their days and nights setting up for the big event. On Thursday evening, past Art Harvest Chairs congregated at the Park for a photo at the Pavilion (which could be the cover for the next SeaOats).

Preparations were still being made when I arrived at the Park on Saturday morning. Around 10am, customers started arriving at the Park. JLCD members withstood the rain on Saturday afternoon as the event came to a close.

Thanks to all who helped! It was a tremendous success!

Why did you join JLCD?? by Karen Gaumer

2008-10-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

I think most of us can say we joined to do something with our time that would be a valuable way to give back to others. We do this because we are the kind of women that admire family, community and the joy of giving.

So, I thought I’d share my perspective on the recent concerns for the big fund raiser we will be working on come the next several months, Moonlight in Monte Carlo. Given we are in the structural building phase of this project, we are seeing the outline before us and often times this part of the process is the least glamorous part to say the very least. What we will see going on right now, primarily is the hardest part…asking for money, asking for things like sponsorship and donations. For most of us this is the most difficult part of being a part of a charity, asking for money from others and given the state of our economy it’s even harder. What is sometimes hard to connect with is that all charities are in the very same boat we are. We are all faced with the challenge of asking folks for their buy in, whether it’s donation, participation or just verbal advertising. What we need to keep in mind is that there are folks that WANT to give and sometimes don’t know how, who, or when to give. Just because you and I don’t have an abundance to give we give our time and that’s on par just as valuable as a monetary donation. How this thought process ties in to the Moonlight event is that, well, this is not a low budget event and we need to treat it like the Oscars or the Grammys. We need to focus on those that do have the money to give and it very well may be folks outside our normal circle of friends and family, I know it might be for me but my goal will be many things. I will aim to find out who has the money to give, tactfully, then ask them if they’d like to have fun giving to charity, getting all glamorous, get their pictures taken, eat amazing food, play on the craps table, spend the evening dancing all the while they are giving to their community. Now doesn’t that sound better than just writing a check? How about asking someone to buy a ticket to give as a Christmas gift, send a friend or two to a glamorous night out and maybe volunteer to watch the kids and it goes to charity…..Think of all the grandparents that would do something like that for their grown children that need a night out. And it’s not ordinary night out……it’s a night in Monte Carlo.

I know most of us are tight for money, there’s no getting around that, I know… believe me I do but some of the greatest events had to start somewhere. Imagine we’ve gone to the greatest efforts and blown the attendance away with what we accomplish, we will not only cut in half the work for the next one, because folks, if this knocks off the socks of the movers and shakers, then we can count of the next party being half the work and much more money. I think if you inquired about the humble beginnings of Art Harvest you’ll find, the first year, we made something like $16k. No doubt they put a lot of work into it, possibly more than we do now (maybe/maybe not – we work pretty hard on this event every year) but it has grown into an animal all its own and raises $80k now. Now, our economy will not always be in the state it’s in now so even though it’s hard to see the future it’s not as hard to set the ground work for great things to come. It takes a little faith, support and hell of a lot of hard work and some of that hard work involves asking for the hardest thing out there……someone else’s money. Keep in mind enthusiasm, teamwork, excitement and good ole’ hands out sidewalk peddling are all free. But, girls, it starts with you. I ask you to become the foundation for the ground swell of enthusiasm and excitement this event needs.

What I do know is that we don’t want to loose any member of this league for financial reasons, we’re all in similar situations so get creative, find a way, be the volunteer you really want to be and find a way to get what we need and that’s money. Let’s face it folks, the goal is to give money back to the community and we have to make money to give money. I’ll finish by telling you a true story and then ask you to try it….I went to a seminar many years ago and the speaker starts by saying to the attendees…..Take you left arm, lift it straight up in the air, bend it down, reach over your head and touch your ear……the entire group methodically all take these steps and looks to this speaker to see if they’d done it correctly…this speaker says to the attendees…..”Just look what you can get people to do if you just ask…….

So, ladies, just ask……

Art Harvest Patron Party

2008-10-28T07:50:00.001-07:00

The Art Harvest Patron Party was held last night at the home of Deborah Kynes (who I heard is running for Mayor of Dunedin in the March election). Over 50 patrons attended, and enjoyed delectables from Island Way Grill (thank you Frank Chivas) and wine from Zen Zen Wines (thank you Michael Seltzer). It was a wonderful event and a JLCD tradition, and a great way to have show support and have some fun before Art Harvest.

Thinking of Art Harvest, we still have shifts available, and it's less than a week away.

Thank you to all the Art Harvest Patrons for your support.

Leadership Opportunities

2008-10-21T08:26:00.000-07:00

The Nominating and Placement Chairs certainly coordinated a great skit at the last General Meeting to demonstrate JLCD's Board positions. I know I have certainly enjoyed serving on the JLCD Board and encourage each of you to consider a leadership position next year. I know next year seems far away, but it truly is not.

The Girlfriend's Guide presents job descriptions for each leadership opportunity. If you have any questions or comments, please contact your Placement Advisor. Our Placement Advisors serve as JLCD Human Resources Department. In addition to checking to see how you are doing, they are also a very valuable resource to each league member. You certainly don't have to wait until they contact you, you can always contact them!!

The Placement Advisors each are assigned to a committee and their respective members. Here is a listing for your convenience!

MONICA MORRIS- Executive Committee
SHENA COTHRAN- ANGELS and Community
LAMBDIN FREEMAN- Arrangements, SPAC, Senior Actives
ANGIE EWBANK- Communications, Cookbook
TAMARA BLACK- Art Harvest
STACY BARNETT- Casino Night
TERRY KONTODIAKOS- Membership Development
LORA IOSA- Membership Education and Training, Scot Shop

Casino Night Motion Passed

2008-10-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

On Monday night at the General Meeting, the Casino Night motion regarding our membership requirement was approved. This motion was first created by the Casino Night committee, and then brought to Council for approval. Each Council representative brought their respective committee members' comments to the Council for discussion. At the Council meeting, Council representatives redrafted the Casino Night motion taking those comments into consideration. The Council representatives were then charged with bringing the new motion and collaboration efforts back to their committee members.

Without fundraisers, our League would not be able to support our community projects or our mission.

Thank you to each member for your support of our organization.

Disney is not the only organization that makes Dreams Come True

2008-09-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

The Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin is continuing to make dreams come true for foster children in Pinellas and Pasco Counties. On Sunday, September 28th, over 60 young ladies descended upon the League's upscale thrift store, The Scot Shop, to choose a formal dress, shoes and accessories for their upcoming homecomings, holiday formals and prom 2009. The 'Princess for a Day' event was also held in May of this year and outfitted nearly 75 young ladies with formal dresses as well as 17 young men with tuxes for prom.

Thank you to the 14 JLCD members who helped make this a dream come true!

Provisional Meet and Greet

2008-09-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday night, I attended the Provisional "Meet and Greet" at Sea Sea Riders in Dunedin. It was a great way to meet new faces. Joanna led a short meeting that focused on the preparations for the provisional project, holiday gifts for foster children. Last year, JLCD provided over 300 gifts for area foster children. I know the provisional will do a wonderful job again this year!

Communication Conduit

2008-09-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending one of our JLCD Council meetings. JLCD relies on the Council system to be the primary conduit of communication between the general membership, each committee and the Board of Directors. Each committee has a delegate on their respective Council. JLCD presently has 4 councils: membership, finance, communications and community.

When a motion is discussed and approved at a committee, it is then brought to the Council for discussion and input. For example, at last night's Council meeting, the Casino Night Committee brought forth a motion for a membership requirement. Members of the Council were sent the motion prior to the meeting, requested comments from their committee members and conveyed those comments to the members at the Council meeting. In true JLCD spirit, the Casino Night Chairs listened to each representative's report from their committee. After much discussion, consensus was reached and recommendations from the Council members were proposed and accepted.

Now what? At this point, the Casino Night Committee representative will take the revised recommended motion back to their committee members for approval. If it is approved, then the motion will go to the Board of Directors, then to the General membership for final approval.

This process allows input on all motions before it is time to vote at the General Membership Meeting. Last night was a true example of women working together to reach consensus about an individual motion.

Thank you to each participant for their dedication to making our fundraiser, Moonlight in Monte Carlo, a great success!

Done in a Meeting (DIAM)

2008-09-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

At every general meeting, JLCD collects items needed to support foster families in Pinellas and Pasco Counties. It is a great and easy way to make an important impact. Our first DIAM, Rise N Shine, was a huge success.

Thank you to all of the people who donated pajamas, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other toiletry items to Raising Hope at our last meeting. Raising Hope, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit organization established in 2004 to meet the emergency clothing and toiletry needs for children coming into Pinellas County’s foster care system. Gloria Lawson from Raising Hope will be speaking to us about their organization at the October General Meeting.

League members that contributed included:

Angie Ewbanks,Stacy Barnett, Felicia Leonard, Gwin Londrigan, Amy Connors, Jill Holcombe,
Kristine Hann, Dawn Scott, Lisa Shadroui, MeganTolliver, Amanda Warner, Ellen Kent, Janet Hudak, Susan Traub, Susan Mucci, Julie Halladay, Michelle Rooney, Merideth Hawkins, Diane Manuel, Gail Christiansen, Karen Gaumer, Nola Johnson, Kaye Foster, Julie Townsend, Erin Ester, Maggie Scott, Jenny Armanious, Molli Kirby, Missy Meek, Teresa Martin, Jennifer Sullivan, Shannon Engle, Sharon Gilberg, Anita Amin, Rodie Purcell, Patti Rivera, Shena Cothran and Marcy Hawk.

Thank you also to people I amy have excluded!

First General Meeting

2008-09-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of thoses who attended our first General Meeting of the 2008/2009 JLCD year. I certainly appreciated hearing from Ashley Rhodes-Courter, our guest speaker. Hearing and reading about her experiences, confirms to me that the JLCD has chosen a very important focus and critical project in our environment. ANGELS FOR FOSTER FAMILIES is needed more than ever, and I know we can make a difference to the system and to the affected families and children. Please stay strong, because this project will require our strength and dedication. Most significant change does not happen overnight. If you haven't purchased Ashley's book, there will be more copies available at the October General Meeting. I urge each of you to give as much time as you can for this important project!

Skating Party at Countryside Mall

2008-09-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday about a dozen volunteers from JLCD together with volunteers from the YMCA and Eckerd Youth Alternatives coordinated a skating party for 78 children in the foster system in Pinellas and Pasco counties. JLCD volunteers helped the kids put on their skates, skated with the kids, and provided a pizza party for the participants. This JLCD annual event is certainly a highlight to many of these children. Thank you to all who participated. I know your time and efforts put a smiles on the faces of all the children there.

New Provisionals

2008-09-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming our new provisionals. Their photos are posted on our website, and I counted 22! A big thanks to those of you who asked a family member, friend or acquaintance!

At the first general meeting, Actives will have the opportunity to serve as a "Buddy" to a provisional or first year active. Actives will be asked to show our new members how our organization functions and introduce her to other members....I know it will be an easy way to meet and get to know our new members.

I hope you will "step up" and serve as a Buddy to one or even two new members!

SPAC --What is it anyways?

2008-08-20T06:50:00.000-07:00

I often receive many questions regarding the JLCD SPAC committee sich as "What the heck do they do?" and "Why do we have one?"

SPAC is an acronym for State Public Affairs Committee, and JLCD participates in the State of Florida SPAC. "The Junior Leagues of Florida State Public Affairs Committee is the advocacy arm of the Junior Leagues of Florida for over 30 years, monitoring the state legislative process and addressing issues of political importance to the members.

The Junior Leagues of Florida have weighed in on various topics, including bicycle helmets for children under 16, the Environmental Growth Management Act of 1995, the '911' Emergency Medical System, child abuse, domestic violence, juvenile justice, and education.

The State of Florida boasts 24 Junior Leagues, with combined membership of over 15,000 women. Each Florida Junior League that chooses to participate in the advocacy process sends delegates to state meetings and conferences throughout the year to research and debate the issues of the day."

Our SPAC committee members give JLCD input and help design the legislative platform for the State SPAC. Members of SPAC attend and participate in state-wide SPAC meetings and represent JLCD in Tallahassee. Our current representatives are Karen Gaumer and Colleen Flynn. Karen is pictured here at a State Task Force meeting.

You can find more information and view the State SPAC's annual report at the State of Florida SPAC Website.

Art Harvest Commitments

2008-08-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is August and Art Harvest is less than 3 months away!

Last night, Bruce and I had the pleasure of loading artist slides into the carousels for the artist selection process this weekend. Artists for AH are selected by professional jurors, not by Junior League members. There to help last night, were Michelle Anger, Jennifer Sullivan, Stacey Shy, Meg Lokey, Sarah Pickett, Gwin Londgrigan, Jill Holcombe and Joanna Rosse. Jill and Joanna came to help to fulfill their requirements, as both of them are heading to NYC for the Marathon!!!!

If you know you are not going to be here for Art Harvest (so you can't work your shift), please contact the committee before AH so they can find you fulfill your shift prior to Art Harvest. Please remember that this is currently our largest fundraiser, so we really do need "all hands on deck".

Pick up your Book Now!

2008-08-13T07:30:00.000-07:00

"Three Little Words" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter have arrived. Ashley will be our guest speaker at the first General Meeting on September 8, 2008 at Mease Dunedin Hospital.

Copies are available prior to the General Meeting at HQ next week on Monday and Thursday and then the next few weeks on Monday through Thursday from Becky between 9am-12:00pm for $10.

Please take time to read this before our meeting! I am sure you see a different perspective, and will have lots of questions!

Here is Ashley's brief bio and her website is http://www.rhodes-courter.com/.

Ashley Rhodes-Courter was born in North Carolina in 1985 and entered foster care in 1989. Over the next 9 years, she lived in 14 placements before being adopted at age 12 by Phil and Gay Courter of Crystal River, Florida.

Ashley graduated with honors from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. She was the recipient of Eckerd's Trustee's Scholarship, their most prestigious full-tuition award. She has won several other national and local scholarships. She completed a double major in communications and drama with a double minor in political science and psychology. She spent her January term, 2006 in South Africa working with a children's literacy project.

In the community, she has a job in marketing, and works with the Heart Gallery of Pasco & Pinellas and also does on-camera work. Ashley was the 2004 Youth Advocate of the Year for the North American Council on Adoptable Children and won the Child Welfare League of America "Kids to Kids" National Service Grand Prize. In 2004, she and her family jointly won the Angels in Adoption from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and was nominated by Congresswoman, Ginny Brown-Waite.

On June 1, 2003, the New York Times Magazine published her grand prize winning essay, "Three Little Words". She expanded her essay into a memoir (also called "Three Little Words") which was published by Simon & Schuster.

In 2007, she was one of 20 college students selected for the USA Today All-USA Academic Team. She also was one of the four GOLDEN BR!CK Award winners for outstanding advocacy by Do Something, and was named one of GLAMOUR Magazine's Top Ten College Women.

Ashley has been featured on Montel Williams, Good Morning America, $.99 Cool Ranch Doritos bags, and other national and local television shows. She is currently maintaining a full calendar of speeches and workshops all across the country. She has a passion to tell her story and share hope with other foster children and encourage adoption and permanency.

Salad Supper Success

2008-08-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

Kelly Borota, Membership VP, hosted our third and last salad supper to recruit new members to JLCD. The attendance was great last night, and several Sustainers (Pauline Deal, Sara Simmons, Stephany Dawson and Katie Cole) attended and brought prospective members along.

Even though Salad Suppers are now over, it is still not too late to ask someone to join our organization.

The provisional orientation will be August 25 at 6:30pm at Countryside Mease Hospital.

If you know someone that may be interested, please contact
Joanna Rosse or Abby Favali.

Thanks again to Kelly, Lisa and Stefanie for hosting the salad suppers and to the rest of the Membership Development Committee for their hard work!

By-Laws & Policies and Procedures

2008-07-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

Last night, Gwin Londrigan, Jennifer McGrail, Laura Redmond and I met for several hours creating our proposed Policies and Procedures to supplement our newly adopted by-laws (found on-line in the member's only section of the website). The committee has been working diligently to bring the proposed Policies and Proceudures to the Board of Directors and then to the General Membership for approval.

Since all of these documents seem a little complicated, I thought I would take a moment or two to describe what these documents are really all about-So, here goes.....

JLCD, like other organizations, are governed by several official documents! (paraphased from http://www.associationforum.com/)

Articles of Incorporation: An organization's articles of incorporation can be thought of as the organization's contract with the state. The articles generally identify the organization's name, legal purpose and the disposition of its assets upon dissolution.

Bylaws: The bylaws will necessarily be more specific than the articles, but may not contravene what is outlined in the articles of incorporation or conflict with the law of the state. Bylaws should not overly restrict the organization 's operations.

Policies and Procedures: Further levels of specificity should be contained in a policy and procedure manual detailing the rules governing the association 's operations. Membership processes, administrative rules, financial policies, parliamentary procedures and the like generally should be outlined in policies.

Hope this makes this "clear as mud", to use a phrase often quoted my by Grandmother:)

Choice, Not Chance- Planning Tampa Bay's Future

2008-07-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, by profession, I am an urban planner which reflects my strong interest in our community's fabric and future. We are in a special time, and have the opportunity to provide input for decisions that will affect us (personally and in League) for years to come.

Here is a description of ONE BAY and an invitation for your participation. I plan on attending and hope you will join me.

Our region’s future should be a matter of choice – not chance.

The future of the Tampa Bay doesn’t belong to any one entity. Rather, it is the responsibility of all of us to guide the type of future we want.

With this spirit, the ONE BAY effort was formed to reach out and provide a forum to work collectively toward a better future.

ONE BAY is a diverse partnership of private and public leaders from environmental, planning, business and economic development all aligned to facilitate a regional visioning process with the goal to achieve a sustainable, high-quality community now and into the future.

A process was established to collect input through a series of workshops. The next phase was to compile all the data and input received into alternative scenarios in order for our existing cities and communities to handle projected future growth in population and jobs over the next 50 years. Starting May, 2008, ONE BAY presented these alternative scenarios to the public for feedback. ONE BAY wants as many citizens of the Tampa Bay region to add their voices to this process so as to allow them to choose the future they wish for their communities.

ONE BAY recognizes the unique diversity of each of our communities and neighborhoods. The scenarios incorporate feedback that has been received from thousands of citizens. The outcome data and research will be offered to counties, planning commissions and government bodies to be used as deemed appropriate.

What the future of Tampa Bay looks like is the responsibility of each and every one of us. By coming together and working collectively, we assure that the future we achieve is one we can all support.

ONE BAY Town Hall Meeting

A regional visioning summit for the nonprofit community.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008 ●9:00am to 10:30am

~ A continental breakfast will be served ~

IBM Conference Center, 5th Floor 3031 N. Rocky Point Road West, Tampa

During this special session for nonprofit organizations, you will learn how our communitymay look in 2050. This is an opportunity to see firsthand the cumulative effects population and employment growth will have on our region.

It is a chance to share your ideas — and that of the communities you serve — on how to best shape our quality of life, preserve precious environmental lands, and balance vibrant downtowns, historic centers, and cherished neighborhoods for generations to come. We want you to be heard.

Please provide attendee names by July 31 to: info@myOneBay.com

For more information about ONE BAY, visit www.myOneBay.com.

National Kids in the Kitchen Cookbook Needs Recipes

2008-07-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

Junior Leagues' Kids in the Kitchen has grown into a highly respected and recognized initiative to address healthy eating and childhood obesity, thanks to the efforts of Junior Leagues everywhere.

As a logical extension of KITK, AJLI is proud to announce the development of the Junior Leagues' Kids in the Kitchen cookbook to be launched next spring. The Kids in the Kitchen cookbook will be a compilation of the very best recipes and tips from Leagues everywhere.

It is your opportunity to to participate by submitting a healthy recipe for consideration.

Please navigate to the following link to access the online recipe submission page - http://www.frpbooks.com/AJLI

The deadline for submitting recipes is September 1, 2008.

Back to School Shopping

2008-07-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

The ANGELS committee and other JLCD members enjoyed a much needed shopping trip to Wal-Mart in Oldsmar in preparation for the Back to School Fair at Clothes to Kids last night. Who doesn't like to shop???

Shopping members included Sharon Gilberg, Kristine Hann, Christine Battista, Emily Graves, Gail Christiansen, Nola Johnson and Patti Rivera.

The Back to School Fair will take place on July 26 from 8:30am - 3:00pm. We will help children select school clothes (I think 5 outfits), and give backpacks filled to the brim with school supplies. We are still in need of volunteers on July 26. Shifts are available from 8:30 -11:00am and 11:00am-3:00pm. Remember, we now have a Community Membership Requirement, so this is a great opportunity to fulfill that and give one-to-one.

For more information regarding, Clothes to Kids, here is the link to their website: http://www.clothestokids.org/

I hope you all can come out an lend a much needed helping hand!

A Clean Ship

2008-07-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

After the new carpet was installed and the paint applied, we left the office in quite a mess! This morning, Renee Foran, Gwin Londrigan, Bruce (my husband), and I emptied the two storage closets and reorganized. So, what does that mean to you?

First, your committee shelves may no longer be where they previously were. You will have to search for your new committee's home. It shouldn't be difficult as each shelf has been labeled with your committee name. More importantly, please only store perishables in a sealed container (for obvious bug reasons). Also, everything should be stored in a plastic container with a lid and labeled instead of cardboard boxes. Many of the boxes were in disrepair.

We have to keep the downstairs landing completely clear as per the Fire Marshall, so you will no longer be able to drop off your scot shop items there. I know this is an inconvenience, but we don't have another solution except to drop off your items at the shop itself.

Remember it is our obligation to be good stewards and take care of our building, so treat it like your home. Thinking of, I do not not advise carrying a drink downstairs with your arms full as I did this morning. Thankfully, it was unopened when it hit the new carpet. It saved me the embarrassment of being the first offender!!

Salad Suppers

2008-07-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

It is summer and I certainly hope each of you enjoyed a wonderful Independence Day! During the next couple of weeks, we will celebrate JLCD and welcome provisional candidates into our homes. It is a time for recruitment, a time to showcase our organization, and a time to have a little food and fellowship!

If you haven't already committed to attending, it's not too late, and I hope to see you there. Thank you Stefanie, Lisa and Kelly for opening their homes for this occasion.

The Salad Suppers will be at the following locations on the following dates:

Wednesday, July 9
Home of Stefanie Barsema, Palm Harbor

Thursday, July 24
Home of Lisa Shadroui, Clearwater

Tuesday, August 5
Home of Kelly Borota, Belleair Bluffs

A side note--Lora and Alex Iosa welcomed a July 4th baby girl, Addison. Congratulations!

Wednesday, July 9th- Home of Stefanie Barsema:1798 Marsh Wren WayPalm Harbor, FL 34683Thursday, July 24th- Home of Lisa Shadroui:2303 Grovewood RoadClearwater, FL 33764Tuesday, August 5th - Home of Kelly Borota:2826 Del Rio DriveBelleair Bluffs, FL 33770

Board and Chair Retreats

2008-06-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

On the past two Saturdays, the JLCD's Board of Directors and Chairs for the 08-09 league year participated in educational trainings. We started the day with a fun ice breaker where we were surprised to learn about our favorite people and things. I personally learned that if you say "Bring it on" is your favorite movie, then you risk ridicule. It is indeed one of my favorites so I guess I deserve that:)

We were excited to have Dr. Linda Andrews-Crotwell teach us many new things. Our serious topics including learning about our individual personalities, how to communicate with others (harder than you may think), team work, conflict resolution, how to facilitate and plan meetings and league operations. Lunch, arranged by Marcy Hawk was brought in by one of our tenants, Picnics-to-Go.

Another important item we discussed was our "Member's Bill of Rights"

The Right to Be Respected
The Right to be Heard
The Right to Try, But Fail

Please remember these as we go forward in a new year!

ANGELS

2008-06-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

I was invited to attend a meeting with Diane Manuel, Emily Graves, Christine Battista and representatives from Safe Children's Coalition (the agency responsible for implementing foster care until July 1 when Eckerd Youth Alternatives takes over). Eckerd Youth Alternatives was founded by Jack and Ruth Eckerd, who both recently passed away. Anyways, just FYI, Ruth was one of our members.

Don't worry, the people we met with will still be there--their employer will just change. It was a productive and passionate meeting. We discussed DIAD and other short term project needs. I know that Community ANGELS committee will put together a great plan for this upcoming year. The committee has been charges with implementing DIAD/DIAMs, short term projects and investigating a long-term project for our league. As you all know, and probably don't need a reminder, but community projects takes all of us to make successful!!!

Thanks for inviting me to tag along!!

1265 Bayshore Boulevard

2008-06-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

You might recognize this title as the address of our "Headquarters", Scot Shop, Picnics-to-Go and the Hair Shadow. Ten years ago (approximately) league headquarters relocated from Clearwater to Dunedin with the purchase of this site. It is about 7,000 square feet and is located on the Pinellas Trail (behind us) and has great views of the water.

As with any other substantial physical asset, is is necessary to take care of our building. This takes a huge amount of effort on the part of a very few people. Over the past year, Georgine Brancato has worked tirelessly reviewing and updating our insurance (way more difficult than I could ever imagine), scheduling maintenance (a never-ending task), and getting the building painted and the carpet replaced. Georgine is transferring her responsibility to Gwin Londrigan, our current Finance VP, but has volunteered to help complete the monumental tasks that have been going on during the past few months. Please pass on your heartfelt thanks to Georgine!

The carpet is scheduled to be installed on Wednesday and the locks will be changed this Thursday. Because of all of the preparation required for paint and carpet, things are a little discombobulated (to say the least). If you are missing something, please be patient or check the storerooms.

We also need volunteers next Saturday afternoon to help organize and put things back together! Please let me know if you can make it. We'll meet around 3:00pm.

Taking care of our building is also a responsibility of all of those who enter. If you have meetings, please remember to TAKE OUT THE TRASH, turn down the AC, turn off the lights, and wipe down the tables.

Thanks for protecting our most important physical asset!!!!

Sweating to Make a Difference!

2008-06-15T16:16:00.001-07:00

JLCD members participated in a "Done in a Day" (DIAD) to help build a playground in the Lake Belleview Community in Clearwater, Florida. This playground will help children in a disadvantaged community learn social skills, build self-esteem and get some exercise. The playground serves Belleair Elementary School, a Title 1 school which serves many foster children.

Marcy and Laura (Marcy's mother) Hawk, Michelle Anger, Christine Battista, Nola Johnson and Chloe Harriman came out to sweat (it was extremely hot) and perform several hours of manual labor! (If I missed you, thanks for coming and please let me know).

Councilmember Carlen Petersen was also there in her official capacity and dedicated the playground during the official ceremonies to Arturo Huerta-Cruz. Spc. Huerta-Cruz is Clearwater's fallen soldier who died serving his country in Iraq two months ago. The ceremonies were extremely emotional, and there was not a dry eye on site. His parents and other unit members were extremely thankful for the dedication in his honor, especially on Flag Day.

Thanks to everyone that participated in the first DIAD of the year. I hear Nola Johnson is working to get a formal "DIAD" application on our website. So, if you know any community organizations that would like our assistance and have projects or programs that benefit foster children, please direct them to the website~

As always, thanks again for spending your time helping to make our community a better place.

New Paint at Headquarters!!

2008-06-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Georgine Brancato, Kelly Borota, Marcy Hawk, Nola and Bryce (Nola's son) Johnson, Bruce (my husband) and I met at Headquarter to take down photos, remove items from all surfaces to get ready for the painter coming tomorrow. So, if you need something, it is probably in the Children's room!! Thanks for all for coming out to help! You can always count on League member to help at the last minute. As Confucius say "Many Hands Make Light Work"!

DON'T FORGET TO COME OUT TO THE ROSS NORTON RECREATION COMPLEX TO HELP BUILD A PLAYGROUND ON SATURDAY!

New Board Holds First Meeting

2008-06-04T16:08:00.000-07:00

On Monday night, the JLCD Board of Directors convened for its first meeting. I am often asked, "what exactly does the Board do and what are its responsibilities?". So, I thought I would take a few minutes and explain some basics.

First, Board members have certain fiduciary responsibilities or "duties"to JLCD. Duty of Care requires that officers act reasonably in respect to the management of JLCD's affairs. Duty of Loyalty prohibits Board members from using their position to further their own interests. And, Duty of Obedience requires that Board members ensure JLCD is following By-Laws and Procedures and adheres to applicable laws.

In addition to those duties, the Board also wears two hats (both white or Junior League red in our case): a management one (oversight of committees and councils) and a governance one (like providing strategic direction, ensuring financial sustainability, etc.)

Here are ten basic responsibilities of non-profit boards from http://www.boardsource.org/ to further explain.

1. Determine the organization's mission and purpose. It is the board's responsibility to create and review a statement of mission and purpose that articulates the organization's goals, means, and primary constituents served.

2. Select the chief executive.

3. Provide proper financial oversight. The board must approve the annual budget and ensure that proper financial controls are in place.

4. Ensure adequate resources. One of the board's foremost responsibilities is to secure adequate resources for the organization to fulfill its mission.

5. Ensure legal and ethical integrity and maintain accountability. The board is ultimately responsible for ensuring adherence to legal standards and ethical norms.

6. Ensure effective organizational planning. Boards must actively participate in an overall planning process and assist in implementing and monitoring the plan's goals.

7. Recruit and orient new board members and assess board performance. All boards have a responsibility to articulate prerequisites for candidates, orient new members, and periodically and comprehensively evaluate their own performance.

8. Enhance the organization's public standing. The board should clearly articulate the organization's mission, accomplishments, and goals to the public and garner support from the community.

9. Determine, monitor, and strengthen the organization's programs and services. The board's responsibility is to determine which programs are consistent with the organization's mission and to monitor their effectiveness.

10. Support the chief executive and assess his or her performance.

Oh, and we have fun too!!! If you have any questions or want to learn more, please do not hesitate to ask, and of course, Board meeting are open in case you want to stop by!!

JLCD Website Updates and Email Blasts

2008-05-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

I spent some time this morning (although not near as much as Lisa Harris, Stevie Moore and Kandy Forenza) learning about the mechanics of our website. In order to have a effective website, the Communications Team needs your help! Every committee will have a page on the Member's Only portion of the website where they can post committee specific information such as upcoming Agendas and Meeting Minutes.

Our software also allows us to send E-Mail blasts to our members (as I am sure you already know). If you have an email blast you would like to send or something to post, please contact Stevie Moore (Communications Committee Vice-Chair).

Just remember our basic guidelines--no personal or company solicitations and it must be League Business related.

It does take everyone to make our website the best it can be!

Art Harvest on a Roll!

2008-05-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

I understand that the Art Harvest Committee has already had their first meeting to get ready for our 45th Annual Art Harvest on November 1 and 2, 2008.

They have divided into subcommittees to conquer the event which includes artist coordination, marketing, children's tent, volunteer, operations, merchandise, and sponsorships.

They have already distributed application for artists. You can find one on our website.

They also have selected the feature artist, PJ. Commerford. Her art is colorful and whimsical appealing to the "urban sophisticate". To find out more, and to get a glimpse of what our merchandise may look like, here is the link to her website. http://www.artbypj.com/

Wow. I can't believe it is our 45th Art Harvest. Art Harvest has been our continual project and our fundraising mainstay. It is that reason that there are two requirements from our members for this spectacular event. Please mark you calendars now, for you are expected to be there at least 4 hours during that weekend (Friday-Sunday). Members are also now required to sell a program ad, obtain a sponsor, sell $50 worth of chance to win tickets, become a patron (or work an additional 4 hours). If you already know your sister is getting married that weekend, please contact the committee early so you can complete your shift before the event...

THANK YOU ART HARVEST COMMITTEE

Gearing Up for Next Year's Provisionals!

2008-05-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

Last night, Joanna Rosse (the new membership development chair), Abby Favali (the new membership development vice-chair), Stephanie Barsema, Erin Authier, Dodee Nulty, Sarah Miller, Gwin Londrigan, Kelly Borota (the incoming Membership Vice-President, and Stacy Barnett, and of course, Lambdin Freeman graciously donated their time to discuss the provisional program's highlights and to brainstorm ideas for next year.

Kelly introduced the concept of a "buddy" program that will start in September. Every first year active and provisional will get an active "buddy" at the beginning of the year. Their Buddy will welcome them and help them navigate through the League's inter workings. It won't be complicated, we'll just draw names at September's general meeting.

Kelly also is looking for a few good women to help her form and lead social clubs. For instance, you will probably see a Saturday movie club led by Gwin (no pressure Gwin), or a Book Club or a Lunch Bunch or a Game Club or a Running Club. If you are interested in leading a club, I know Kelly would appreciate it.

Other new ideas were to make sure provisionals have name tags, provide a provisional notebook, use the website more for communication, schedule the provisional meetings in a separate week other than General Meetings, use the website to track requirements, communicate with members through new technology (like texting), and to provide mix & mingle opportunities before the General Meeting

Highlights of the provisional program included team building (especially the Ropes Course), the Angel project, Road Rally highlighting our past projects, and the membership development committee members. Last Year's committee received lots of kind words...

So, Membership Development Committee, thank you again for a wonderful job, especially Lambdin and Joanna!!!!

Please feel free to give Kelly, Joanna, Abby or myself your perspective or just click on comments and enter it here.

One more thing, it is never to early to start thinking about WHO you will ask to be a part of our great organization. Our most successful recruiting efforts are by us asking someone we know at work, school, neighborhood, etc. to join.

Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin's future needs "all hands on deck" to recruit next year's class!!!

What a Night!!

2008-05-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

Starlight Cruises was the venue of the Annual Dinner of the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin. It was certainly a time to celebrate this past year's leadership, award winners and accomplishments, and a time to look toward the future.

With record breaking attendance, and the most amount of men I have seen at an annual dinner, we started the evening with cocktails on the upper deck enjoying the magnificent view of Clearwater Harbor. We then proceeded downstairs to enjoy a diverse and tasty menu..My steak was fantastic, although I was actually delivering my incoming president's message, so I missed dessert!

Sharon kicked off our evening with recognition of the existing Board, introduction of the new Board, introduction of the new actives, recognition of Becky Cole for 20 years of service (complete with a present in a blue box and a terrific slide show containing comments from past-presidents). recognition of years of service, presentation of our annual awards, and messages from Sharon and me.

After patiently waiting until the meeting was adjourned, the dance floor was hopping---we are definitely not a shy crowd!

I have heard nothing but great feedback and this was certainly a wonderful event. Thank you to Arrangements for putting the adventure together for us:)

If you have any photos, please feel free to post or email to FeliciaLeonard@yahoo.com

2007-2008 Annual Dinner Award Winners

NOLA JOHNSON, Volunteer of the Year

DEANNA SNEDEKAR: Sustainer of the Year

KRISTINE HANN AND SARA LAKE, Provisionals of the Year

MEGHAN JUSTICE, Magnificent Member Award
LAMBDIN FREEMAN & JOANNA ROSSE, Community Impact Award
ANNE COPA, Fantastic Fundraiser Award
SHENA COTHRAN, Golden Hanger Award

AMY LOOPE & LAURA REDMOND, Planning For Our Future Award
EMILY GRAVES, Spirit of the Junior League Award

Foster Family Fun at the Highland YMCA

2008-05-11T15:38:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Diane Manuel and Sara Lake coordinated a very successful foster fun day with over 100 children and their families at the YMCA on Highland in Clearwater. The foster children enjoyed all sorts of games, a drum circle, face-painting, and of course, no event would be complete without pizza and healthy fruit. The provisional class chose to present this fun event with the extra funding from the holiday gift program.

A HUGE thanks to Diane and Sara for planning and executing this wonderful event! Thanks also to Stephanie Barsema, Jill Holcombe, Erin Authier, Marcy Hawk (and a special thanks to her Mother), Linda Griggs, Karen Gaumer, Lisa Shadroui, Leslie Hanley, Abby Favali, Joanna Rosse, Sharon Gilberg, Jen Muscato, Lambdin Freeman, Amy Connors and anyone I may have missed.

As I wasn't able to attend, please post your comments about the event.

P.S. Lambdin took these wonderful pics!

Sustainer Social

2008-05-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

Sharon Gilberg and I attended the Sustainer Social at Louise Robinson's home last night. Louise is a very gracious hostess and it was a wonderful, well attended and fun event.

Our Sustainers sustain (for lack of a more appropriate word) the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin. Although we have different membership classes, (Provisional, Active, Sr. Active, non-Resident Active, Sustainer) we are all part of one organization. One Mission. One League. Thinking of, if you are a Sustainer, would you be interested in helping on a JLCD committee?

Amy, Deanna, Stacey and Sharon

Among the many sustainers in attendance was Stacey Shy, the Sustainer President. Please join me in thanking her for her dedication and for her past year's efforts. I even understand she is Co-Chairing Art Harvest as a Sustainer next year!

Stacey and Amy Connors presented the "Sustainer of the Year" award to Deanna Snedeker for her giving spirit and hard work with the Community and Wellness Committee this year.

Also present was Jackie Addis, the incoming Sustainer President. Congratulations and welcome to Jackie! I know she has lots in store for the upcoming year.

Jackie and Kandy

JLCD's First Blog and Annual Conference

2008-05-07T15:33:00.001-07:00

While at the AJLI Annual Conference last week, it was suggested (by a conference presenter) that we create a blog as an additional form of communication. So, here goes. I'll be the hostess, but feel free to send me anything you would like to post to FeliciaLeonard@yahoo.com.

What do you think of this blog? Is it a good idea?

Thinking of AJLI Annual Conference. It is hosted every year (hence the term annual) by AJLI- the Association of Junior Leagues International. They have a great website http://www.ajli.org/ that has many resources for our members. Please take a second to check it out.

Conferences are important training opportunities for our membership.How do you get to go? Well, the Nominating and Placement Committee invites members to Area III and ODI (Organizational Development Institute) and delegates are presented and approved by the general membership for Annual Conference (last week in San Diego and next year in Atlanta)

Please let me know what you think.