November 2001
Issue Highlights
League Project Helps Girls in Juvenile Detention Center
By Thomasina T. Diggs, Chair, Girls' Advocacy Project Committee
We look into the sea of young faces. They do not look like juvenile delinquents. Nor do they sound like girls that are threatening. Instead, they look lost. They sound sad and beaten down by life. They speak to the group of visiting women in quiet voices. So quiet that we gently repeat, "Please speak up. We can't hear you." These are girls whose voices have too often been muffled. Yet, when they see that we care and are interested, they open their hearts and talk about their lost childhood, their pain, their paths that landed them in detention and their hopes and dreams.
These are girls housed in the Juvenile Detention Center who sleep in cells no bigger than the closets in some of our homes. These are girls that often come from dysfunctional homes and/or the foster care system. Many of them arrested for minor offenses, such as curfew violations, fighting or running away.
The girls enter the system with heavy baggage:
- Eighty percent are victims of physical abuse.
- Seventy percent are victims of sexual abuse or sexual assault.
Many who refer to themselves as "push outs" kicked out of their homes by moms who may have chosen a boyfriend over them or who have left because of abuse may wind up on the streets and turn to prostitution to survive.
Judge Cindy S. Lederman, Administrative Judge of the Juvenile Division of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida and a JLM Advisory Board Member decided it was time to help these "lost" girls and initiated the Girls Advocacy Project (GAP). She viewed the girls' isolated time in detention as an opportunity, a "retreat" from the everyday negative influences that lead girls into the system. This "time out" can be used to educate the girls, garner their trust, inspire them, modify their behavior and give them opportunities they've never had. GAP is one of the few projects in the nation that provides first-step intervention while girls are in detention awaiting trial, placement and/or release.
Funded by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, GAP coordinators work directly a multiethnic group of girls with an average age of 15 years, and some as young as 11 years. The project also aims to assist the juvenile justice system in determining what type of gender-specific programs are needed and to provide more proactive intervention.
At the heart of GAP are weekly education group talks, occasionally facilitated by guest speakers from the community who volunteer their time. Topics of these talks include:
- Sexuality
- Independent living skills
- Health, hygiene and nutrition
- Gang affiliation
- Artistic ability
- Alcohol and substance use
- Conflict resolution
- Self-acceptance and self-esteem
- Technology and computers
- Victimization
- Violence
- Coping with illness and death
Another powerful outlet for the girls is the GAP Journal, a work in progress with entries being read by new girls entering the detention center. This creates a common thread that bonds the girls to each other and fosters a support system because of their shared experiences.
As an innovative project, GAP is gaining statewide and national attention for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable girls. The GAP Community Advisory Board was formed last year, bringing women together in support of this valued project; women who want to send a message to the girls that there are caring people in the community who want to help them succeed.
Browse the GAP website at www.gapgirls.org to learn more about our community's most vulnerable girls and how to help give them a chance for a safe, productive, and fulfilling future.
Back to top
Be Thankful for Our Freedom and the Ability to Make a Difference
The following is excerpted from the speech made by Julia Bianchi at the special October General Membership Meeting.
September 11, 2001 was a remarkable day for the entire world. It was a day when many things changed forever as a result of the deadliest terrorist attack that has ever occurred in recorded history. The attacks happened right before our eyes and were broadcast on television worldwide. Thousands of innocent civilians were killed. The world was, and still is, horrified by this evil.
The question of why bad things happen to good people has been discussed an analyzed for thousands of years. The Old Testament's Book of Job deals directly with this issue. Job was really a fairly nice man and yet he was constantly being tested. Many authors have grappled with this question, including such well-known men as Harold Kushner and Robert Schuller.
Personally, I don't think God has anything to do with these tragedies. I think it is the free will of mankind and the inherent struggle between good and evil that dwells within. I also think that it during bad times that one's faith provides hope for a better tomorrow. It is the emphasis on humankind's ability to "do good" that sustains the souls of those who are suffering. It is the pure desire for goodness that buoys us in the face of evil. I think of the suppressed people in Afghanistan who are desperately praying for peace. I am sure that the vast majority of Afghan people are good people who just want to live in peace and take care of their families. I am also sure that they are praying very hard that an American bomb will not mistakenly fall on their mud home and defenseless children.
The question of why they hate us is a complex issue. The terrorists and those President Bush calls the "evildoers" have been taught to hate. They hate us for our freedom and they hate us for our ability to choose. They hate our diversity and our freedom of expression. They are threatened by multiculturalism. The truly shocking aspect to me is that the suicide terrorists lived among us for many years. They had the benefit of experiencing our way of life. They ate at McDonald's and Dunkin' Donuts, mailed packages from Boxes Plus, flipped burgers on their backyard BBQs and rented cars from Hertz. Despite an immersion in our culture, they still hated to a depth that most Americans are simply unable to comprehend. What we need to keep reminding ourselves is that it is not Islam that hates us or which teaches its followers to hate. It is a small group of determined people who happen to be fanatical sect of a particular religion. One of the best analogies was made on the television program The West Wing where the comparison was made that "Islam is to terrorism as Christianity is to the KKK."
Finally the question of whether life will ever be the same is relatively easy. We all know that life goes on but each one of us also knows that we will always remember September 11. Our lives will be different. We will probably have to give up some of the freedoms and conveniences that we have always taken for granted. Positive things also will occur as a result of the tragedy. Hopefully, we may be willing to take a bit more time with one another. The Miami Herald reported that there will be a baby boom in nine months since many people sought solace with one another following the tragedy!
In terms of the Junior League, we need to take this time and think of it as an opportunity. Think of the freedom we have to come together this evening as women in a group setting. The women in Afghanistan and other places must convene in secrecy. Now is the time for us to celebrate and cherish our freedoms.
Now is the time for us to celebrate that we are the most charitable people in the world. The relief effort is critical, however, we also need to continue focusing on those in our own community. Now is the time to be thankful that we have the ability and the resources to give time and money to those less fortunate. Now is the time to be thankful that we have the freedom and the ability to make a difference in our world.
Back to top
New Bylaws Part of Streamlining Process for JLM
By Holly Battle, President-Elect
This month we will have the opportunity to vote on some bylaw changes that will help streamline the way JLM does business. In an effort to listen to your concerns about time constraints, we are implementing the following changes:
Combining the Membership and Membership Outreach Committees. Since these two committees already work together very closely to bring in new members and also host events for potential members, it only made sense to combine them. Chairs Keith Landon and Nancy Allen are very happy with the way the two committees are working together. The bylaw change reflects this combination of these two very important committees.
Eliminating the Executive Committee from the League structure. How will this work? The Board of Directors will function as the governing body for the Junior League. Each Vice President will have a council composed of committee chairs. Your voice is heard through your chair and the council vice president. This will eliminated the redundancy of the monthly Executive Committee meetings and the Board of Directors meetings and make more time available for each vice president to focus on her council. Not to worry though, a small group of officers will be available to make any emergency decisions between the meetings of the Board should the need arise. The bylaw changes listed are simply to replace the wording Executive Committee with Board of Directors.
Please take the time to read the bylaw changes by clicking here. We will be voting on them at the November General Membership Meeting. Your vote is very important so please plan to attend.
Back to top
JLMarvelous!
- Leslie Hoyt and Allison Steilberg, recent transfers into JLM, asked if they could help with Golden Palm Gift Market and have jumped in feet first. Thanks for your enthusiasm!
- To Jennifer Pfleger and Leslie Hoyt, who transformed our Palm Café from dust to greatness!
- To Inn Transition North committee members Erin Dolan, Edeline Dureny and Gloria Pastoriza for their hard work and planning for a successful weekend movie event for the children of Inn Transition North.
- A very special thank you to Betty Wohl, her son Allen, and Do Isriel for organizing an incredible outing to Kendall Ice Arena for the kids involved in Project Reach!
- Also, a big thank you to Jorge Seijas and Kendall Ice Arena for their overwhelming generosity towards the Junior League our Project Reach - Big Brothers Big Sisters! They put huge smiles on the faces of 10 boys and girls (and the Junior League volunteers) that will last a very, very long time!
- Thank you to Liz Sarachek, Lynn Sands, and Julia Brown for organizing an awesome sailing trip with Shake-a-Leg Sailing School for the Project Reach kids.
Movers & Shakers
Sustainer Anne Helliwell has been elected to serve a four-year term on the Board of Trustees for the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. Congrats Anne!
Little Leaguers
Drake McAlister Austin was born on September 13, 2001, weighing in at nine pounds and measuring 20 inches. Proud parents Brooke and Steve Austin are joyously celebrating his arrival!
Back to top
AJLI: Membership Dues are Tax-Deductible
By Michele Battle, V.P. Finance
Recently, several Junior Leagues had asked AJLI if their membership dues were still tax deductible. The answer is yes. Both Junior League of Miami and AJLI membership dues are tax-deductible.
AJLI's tax attorney wants to assure all Junior League members that dues to the Junior Leagues are fully tax-deductible since Junior Leagues are tax-exempt Section 501(C)(3) organizations, and the member receives no substantial personal benefit in return for her dues. Newsletters and members-only meetings and functions are not considered substantial personal benefits. Dues to AJLI (which are included as part of our JLM dues) are also tax deductible since AJLI is also a tax-exempt Section 501 (C) (3) organization and members receive no substantial personal benefits.
Back to top
Member Input Needed for Fundraiser Proposals and Presentations
By Debbie Corbishley, V.P. Development
The JLM Development Council is asking for member input as to what fundraisers we undertake next year. If you have an idea for a new fundraiser or ways to modify or strengthen existing fundraisers, please email me or call me at work before December 6th. (I am expecting another child in late December, so please be on time, since I will not check emails or office voice mail for a few weeks!)
We will want projections for budget (expenses and revenues), sources of funds, use of volunteers, committee size, and member financial expectations by January 15th. Long term fundraiser proposals will need to let us know how long it will take to establish the fundraising source and when we can expect a profitable return. Fund Development Presentations will be open to the membership, so even if you do not propose a new fundraiser you are welcome to join us and ask questions or comments on January 24, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. at JLM headquarters. Help us make money efficiently and effectively to support our mission of volunteer training and community projects.
Back to top
Be Prepared to Support New SPAC Initiatives
By Holly Ebbert, SPAC Representative
At the November general membership meeting, we will be asked to cast our votes in support of two public stands recently approved by the State Public Affairs Committee at the Fall Conference in Tampa:
Public Stand on Infant Crib Safety: The Junior Leagues of Florida believe that the design and construction of an infant crib must ensure that it is safe, and a parent or caregiver has a right to believe that an infant crib in use is a safe containment in which to place an infant. Therefore, in order to reduce the occurrence of injuries and deaths to infants as a result of unsafe cribs that do not conform to modern safely standards, the Junior Leagues of Florida endorse laws which would make it illegal to manufacture, remanufacture, retrofit, sell, contract to sell or resell, lease or sublet, any full- or other sized crib that is unsafe, and support programs to encourage public and private collaboration in disseminating materials relative to the safety of infant cribs to parents, child care providers, and those individuals who would be likely to sell, donate, or otherwise provide to others unsafe infant cribs.
Public Stand on Children's Health Care: The Junior Leagues of Florida support the funding and implementation of quality comprehensive medical health care programs for children based on the needs of the local community.
For more information on either of these public stands, please contact Hebbert613@aol.com
Back to top
Board to Give Meeting Credit for September 11 General Meeting
Because of the national tragedy of September 11th, the Board of Directors has decided to give meeting credit to all Active members for the General Membership Meeting scheduled for that date. We should all be very proud of the efforts our members have made to support various relief activities and organizations. This meeting credit is the JLM's way of thanking you for your support of our country in its time of need.
Back to top
Straw Ballots Wanted!
By Morgan Park, Nominating Chair
The Straw Ballot asks for recommendations for leadership for the 2002-03 League year. Although that seems like a long time from now, it is actually right around the corner!
Straw Ballots are due on November 30th, and every single JLM member is encouraged to submit one to the Nominating Committee. Straw Ballots provide you with the opportunity to give your input in deciding next year's leaders. Please do your best to submit one. Self-submitted nominations are extremely encouraged and will be given strong consideration. Click here to make some nominations now.
Should you have any questions about the Nominating process, please call someone on the Nominating Committee: Lorrie Borden, Holly Ebbert, Sara George, Allison Holly, Rubye Nell Johnson, Barbara Kelly, Stephanie Kirby, Lyn Pannone, Alison Robinson, or Morgan Park. We would be glad to answer any questions, and remember-all discussions are kept completely confidential. Click here to see JLM members with past leadership experience.
Back to top
Condolences
Our deepest sympathies to JLM active Sarah Artecona and her family on the death of her esteemed mother Judge Lenore Nesbitt.
Back to top
Inn Transition South Progresses...
By Liz Spivack and Stephanie Demos-Brown, Co-Chairs, Inn Transition-South
We've made it through the permitting process and are very excited to have broken ground on Inn Transition South. Born in 1992 after Hurricane Andrew, this dream is finally coming true. The facility is in a great location, west of Cutler Ridge Mall in the South Miami Heights neighborhood.
This project, in partnership with Miami-Dade County and the Greater Miami Neighborhood, will result in a complex of 56 single-family units for victims of domestic violence and homeless families. All six of the buildings have been laid out. They've already begun putting in the underground electrical and plumbing on two of the building, with the air conditioning to be installed next. They've also started digging the foundation, which is great news, because now the work will move along at a faster pace.
We'll be updating you monthly on our progress and look forward to your involvement and participation in this signature JLM project! Look for our table at the November 13th GMM to see the layout and design of the facility.
Back to top
JLM Withdraws from Computers Connecting Families
By Flora Perez, Legal Coordinator
As some of you are aware, the League has withdrawn from the Computers Connecting Families Project, which was proposed by the Mental Health Association of Dade County and approved by League members at the March 2001 meeting.
The principal proponent of the Project at the Mental Health Association is no longer affiliated with the Mental Health Association. In addition, the Association had to unexpectedly move from its principal offices, and understandably has been focused on making the transition into its new facilities. Unfortunately, as a result, the Project did not progress as either the Association or the members of the Computers Connecting Families committee had hoped.
In order to ensure that the League takes full advantage of its volunteer efforts, the Board decided to withdraw from the Computers Connecting Families Project and to reassign the members of the Computers Connecting Families Committee to different committees. In corresponding with the Mental Health Association we expressed our continuing support for the Project and the Association and encouraged them to submit a new project proposal application to our Program Development Committee.
Back to top
Council Spotlight: The Planning Council Needs You
Member Input Vital for JLM's Future!
By Meredith Mills, Vice President - Planning
What exactly does the "Planning Council" do ? What's a Member-at-Large? Don't feel bad if you've had these questions. I have asked these questions myself over the years that I've been in the Junior League.
Well, this is the article for you then I'm going to attempt to answer these questions and give you an overview of how the Planning Council works and what your role is!
I know what you're saying, "I'm not on a committee that works with the Planning Council I'm on XYZ Committee". Well the truth is as a member of the Junior League of Miami, you have a vital role in planning for the organization's future.
All good companies and organizations think ahead. That's the only way to stay current with an ever-changing community. The members of the Planning Council are the women in charge of the "forward-thinking" of the League. The Planning Council is ultimately responsible for the Strategic Plan, drafting it, updating it and making sure the League is doing what we've planned. The current Strategic Plan was written in 2000 and goes thru 2005.
Now this doesn't mean we've stuck it in a box and we'll pull it out to look at it in 2005 NO !!!! This is a living document that we use as a guideline in determining action steps that are taken. One of your Members-at-Large is working this year on checking off what we've accomplished on the Strategic Plan, what we're actively working on, and frankly what we've missed and need to get going with ! Her efforts will guide decisions that are made by you the General Membership and the Board on projects we undertake, membership issues and fund raising.
While I'm on the topic of Members-at-Large let's address that question of what they do. These 4 women who are elected to these positions for a two-year term are YOU, THE MEMBERS, representatives on the Planning Council. They often work on projects at the request of the VP Planning or the President-Elect, but they also are on the Council to make sure that any plans made for the future are in line with what the membership wants. This year I am pleased to be working with Susan Bonner, Rubye Nell Johnson, Joelle Helstein and Rosy Toussaint. I encourage you to talk to any of them as the year progresses with thoughts about the League , it's projects, fund-raising activities, requirements,etc.
Believe me, the Planning Council wants to know your feelings about all aspects of the League. We may not be able to solve the problem or address the issue immediately but we can incorporate your thoughts into future plans. Bottom line, we don't operate in a vacuum, we need you feedback.
We also need your support. The Training Committee tries to plan trainings that meet members needs for education and fun. This committee works very hard at preparing events that help all of us become the "trained volunteers" that the League is known for. I encourage all of you to take part in these trainings and if you have an idea for an event please share it with the Training committee.
The primary reason that many of us joined the Junior League of Miami was to have an opportunity to make a difference in the community. The Program Development Committee works hard all year with community agencies to encourage them to submit project ideas to the Junior League. I just had an opportunity to attend a Informational Meeting held by Program Development and I was amazed at all of the organizations who sent representatives. When all the proposals have been submitted it's the Program Development committee that works to bring the proposals that fit within our Focus Areas to the membership.
HERE'S WHERE YOU PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE ! Please plan to attend the Program Development Presentations in January. This is the best way for you to give feedback on project ideas and state which ones you think are the best. Believe me, YOUR FEEDBACK IS VITAL!
Now that you've read all of this (AT LEAST I HOPE SOME OF YOU ARE STILL WITH ME!!) I hope that you can see that THE PLANNING COUNCIL NEEDS YOU!! YOUR FEEDBACK, YOUR IDEAS AND YOUR THOUGHTS. WE DON'T OPERATE IN A VACUUM!
Do me a favor, pull out your copy of the strategic plan (from that drawer that you threw it into) or click here, and just read thru one section of it. See if we're sticking to it. After all, as members we all created it and if we follow it I truly think that we can be VOLUNTEERS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE in our community.
Back to top
Provisionals Get Behind-the-Scenes Look at Inn Transition North
By Vicky Colross and Lynn McCowen-Schwab, Provisional Committee
On October 22, the Provisionals and their mentors were fortunate enough to meet with Judge Deborah White-Lebora, an inspirational Dade County Judge assigned to the Domestic Violence Division. This meeting, which took place at the North Miami Public Library, was a motivating look inside one of the League's flagship programs: Inn Transition North.
The meeting gave the Provisionals a chance to see exactly what their time in the League will help accomplish. Buses took our group to Inn Transition where we were met by a staff member who told us the history of the facility, and explained exactly how each resident is chosen and what is expected from each lady. First and foremost, Inn Transition is a home for women, with children, who desperately want to start a fresh life free from violent spouses.
The mothers who live at Inn Transition have already gone through the Dade County system for battered women and are recommended for a placement at Inn Transition. Once accepted, these women are required to pay a portion of their income- whatever it may be- and must make a commitment to this residence. There, they are taught skills that will help them get a job, balance a checkbook and other care for their children- things we take for granted.
After the tours, Judge White-Labora spoke to the women about how she became involved with domestic violence issues. We all learned how valuable she has been to our community, especially within the last decade. She also explained the legal process that these women face while trying to protect themselves and their children.
The last part of our meeting focused of a resident of Inn Transition who shared with us her personal experiences. We heard firsthand exactly how the facilities at Inn Transition help mothers who literally have no other alternatives. They learn how to become independent women who can support themselves and their children. This informative, yet touching account of this resident's time at Inn Transition made each of us feel extremely proud to be associated with such a worthwhile cause.
Back to top
Sustainer News: Get Ready to Step Out for the Holidays
By Rosemarie "Poodie" Floyd, Sustainer Chair
It's time for the announcement of our Holiday Party, so mark your calendar. Can you believe that 17 people actually volunteered to assist? Your Holiday Party committee includes Rosemarie Floyd (Chair), Mary Babcock-Pahules, Barbara Buhler Erdman, Nicky Hubbard, Mary Frances Irwin, Suzanne Jones, Ruth Myers, Marilyn Patterson, Connie Plunkett, Jacqueline Poliacoff, Christy Powell, Jeannett Slesnick, Linda Smoak, Linda Stringos, Denise Tyre, Betsy Tilghman, and Cathy Zuckerman.
Holiday Party
You are cordially invited to the Junior League Sustainer Holiday Party for a delicious buffet and open bar on Saturday, December 1st from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the home of Jacqueline Poliakoff. Tickets are $50.00 per person with an advance reservation, $60.00 per person at the door. RSVP by November 19, 2001. You will receive your formal invitation soon with additional details. For more information, contact Cathy Zuckerman at (305)663-1985. Wait until you see this party; it will be worth every penny!
Holiday Project
Our holiday project this year is to help trim Christmas trees for the families of Inn Transition North. At Jackie Poliakoff's we will be decorating a tree that will be donated to the Inn Transition administration office. Please bring one ornament for the main tree. We will also be collecting cash donations and/or other tree or house decorations to inspire Inn Transition's 19 apartments into a festive mood. Suggestions include tree lights (any color), decorative balls, garland, icicles or a gift for a child or woman. They need everything so we will have a large box at the front door to receive your generous donations.
Those of you who cannot attend the Holiday Party and would like to donate an ornament or other items, please deliver it to JLM Headquarters, and Susan Lerner, Chair of the Inn Transition North Committee, will see that it gets delivered. The 19 families that reside at the facility will appreciate our efforts in making this a truly giving year.
June Brine has kindly accepted the chair for both the Book Club and the Evening Bridge Group. If you have any questions please give this fine reader a winning call at (305) 445-4945.
Bridge for Fun!
Come join the Evening Bridge Group. This group is different than the existing tournament bridge group with an informal membership. June has selected the second Tuesday of each month to play. First annual kickoff will be at 7:00 pm, Tuesday, November 13th at June Brine's home: 929 Anastasia Ave, CG. You must RSVP to hostess at (305)445-4945 to reserve a space. Before playing, we will review rules and bidding procedures for those of us who need it. Also, there will be a different location and hostess each month. We look forward to playing with you!
Golden Palm Gift Market
You should already have the Golden Palm Gift Market on your schedules. Thursday's Preview Night will be followed by a "Special Ladies Day" on Friday. Of course, I'm picking Thursday and Friday for all the goodies, however, all the days look exciting. They need our attendance in force to make this a Palm-perfect event. See you there!
From the Golden Palm Chairs:
We look forward to seeing all of you at this year's Golden Palm Market. We know you won't want to miss Friday, which is Women's Day, or Sunday, Appraisal Day.
- Women's Day presented by Burdines with a special Burdines gift bag for our sustainers (please RSVP to the GPGM hotline (305) 476-3183 if you plan to attend.
- Tea Etiquette demo and book signing by Elizabeth Knight (author of Tea with Friends)
- Houseware vendor demos with Nespresso by Alessi
- China display by Lenox- launch of new pattern "Winter Garden"
- Complimentary Day Spa demos and treatments
- Free makeovers by cosmetic vendor MAC
- Yoga by Synergy Yoga and Healing Arts
- Botox Demonstration by Dr. Manjula Jegoasothy (dermatologist)
Appraisal Day on Sunday
Sponsored by Sloan's Auctioneer's & Appraisers. For the first time ever, Golden Palm Gift Market will feature Appraisal Day. We anticipate an overwhelming response to this event so we have set up a hotline to take reservations and schedule time slots, call 305 476-3183.
SUSTAINER BOOK CLUB
First Wednesday of each month, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 7th
"Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri
Reviewer: Katie Doren
Hostess: Jeannie Pennekamp
(305) 665-6317
Wednesday, December 5th
"The Golden Bowl" by Henry James
Reviewer: Nancy Sabia
Hostess: Caryl Cullom
(305) 233-0740
Please RSVP to the scheduled hostess so that she can plan lunch.
Back to top
A Volunteer's Day at the Encore Shop!
By Jean Nee, Mother of JLM member Margaret Nee
If I had to describe my hours spent at the Encore Shop, I would say it was "pleasant fun." To start off, I was greeted and sincerely welcomed by Ester and Raisa, the team that currently works at the Encore Shop. As a new volunteer I wanted to begin slowly so I kept myself busy straightening hanging clothing and checking in donated clothing and greeting the League members as they came in to donate goods. By 11:00 a.m. the store began to come alive with shoppers. The staff and customers greeted one another in a way that made it obvious that these clients had been to the shop more times than could be counted.
As the morning wore on, since I have no knowledge of the Spanish language I thought perhaps I would have difficulty communicating with some customers not so. Facial expressions, hand gestures and smiles easily broke through the language barrier. I had wonderful "conversations" with many customers and their children.
One added bonus was that I was able to advise the members of a new Encore Shop policy: members may deliver their garments on their own hangers. Members no longer need to re-hang their donations on Encore Shop hangers. The news seemed to make a few smiles widen.
Three hours passed quickly it was a very nice way to pass the time, meet people, have fun and, most of all, know I was helping others.
While I am here visiting my daughter, I have made volunteering at The Encore Shop a part of my schedule. I urge all of you to consider doing the same. I can assure you that you will enjoy the time spent with community members at one of your Junior League projects.
Back to top
Luncheon Aboard the "Grandeur of the Seas"
Save the Date: February 1, 2002
Come celebrate the accomplishments of community service throughout Miami-Dade! On Friday, February 1, 2002, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will host a reception and luncheon on their beautiful Grandeur of the Seas. The program will honor women who have made a difference in the areas of children's and women's heath, early childhood education and family violence.
Your participation in the program will fund the projects and volunteer training of the League including the Endowment Fund. The afternoon will be a relaxing, entertaining and educational. It will rekindle our hearts with the spirit of volunteerism and the will to conquer our community's challenges! Look for more details in the next Journal.
Back to top
The Golden Palm Gift Market A Unique Shopping Experience Is Here!
By Barbie Alderman and Ashley Cusack, 2001 Co-Chairs and Molly Carroll, GPGM PR chair
We've said it before and we'll say it again! TAKE 10! The Golden Palm Gift Market committee is so excited for our upcoming market that we just can't help spreading the "cheer" - TAKE 10!
If every JLM member brings 10 people to Golden Palm, we will have the most successful year yet and most importantly, meet all our goals as one of the major fundraisers for the JLM. Remember, if you buy 5 tickets, you get 1 free, so encourage your family, friends and coworkers to come out.
Event Highlights
We have great events planned each day, along with the new "Palm Café" which will be open for lunch every day. Here are just some highlights of what the Golden Palm Gift Market will have to offer. A more detailed schedule of events is listed on page 22. There's so much good stuff you'll probably want to come by each day!
THURSDAY: We are thrilled about the fabulous restaurants we have slated for our sell-out event, Premiere Under the Palms. We encourage everyone to patronize these restaurants before and after our own event, to show our appreciation for their efforts. Be sure and thank them, they are doing us a wonderful service by donating their staff and delicacies!
FRIDAY: Women's Day, A Beautiful You presented by Burdines. Featured events include: Free makeovers by cosmetic vendor MAC; complimentary day spa demos and treatments by Burdines Salon; Botox demo by dermatologist (and JLM member) Manjula Jegasothy, M.D.
SATURDAY: Family Day presented by MY GYM and South Forida Parenting Magazine. Events include: Raffles by FAO Schwarz; special appearances by Raggedy Ann and Teddy Bear Soldier; and an exciting dance performance by South Florida's own nationally recognized Hip Hop Kidz.
SUNDAY: Appraisal Day, presented by Sloan's Auctioneers & Appraisers. For the first time ever, Golden Palm Gift Market will feature Appraisal Day. We anticipate an overwhelming response to this event so we have set up a hotline to take reservations and schedule time slots; all calls will be returned within 48 hours.
You must have a reservation and a confirmation number in order to have an item appraised. Walk-ins are welcome but only those with a reservation will be guaranteed an appraisal. Please note that appraisal reservations are limited. If we run out of available spaces, Sloan's has graciously offered to give complimentary appraisals at a later date. The appraisers will only be accepting hand-held transportable items or photos of the item in the following categories: 1) Paintings, sculpture, rugs and carpet; 2) Tribal art, antique toys, collectibles, dolls and lead soldiers; 3) Decorative arts and silver; 4) Jewelry; 5) Latin American Art; and 6) Paintings.
When you call the Golden Palm Gift Market Hotline at (305) 476-3183 or send an email, please leave your name, telephone number and indicate which category you are interested in.
Don't Miss the Discounts!
At JLM HQ pick up coupons for $2 off Golden Palm Market day tickets. Please make copies and hand out to everyone you know. Check out the listing of the participating merchants for the 2001 Golden Palm Gift Market. There will be something for everyone on your holiday gift list! Please bring your friends!
Bakers needed! The GPGM committee would like any volunteers to bake cookies, brownies or pound cakes. If you can bake any of these items and deliver them to Golden Palm during Nov. 15-18 please call our hotline at (305) 476-3183.
Q & A Regarding your Golden Palm Volunteer Shift
By Kimberly Martin, GPGM Volunteer Shift Scheduling Chair
By now every active and provisional should know when her GPGM shift will take place. Thank you to those of you who have already completed your shifts already. We owe a debt of gratitude to our volunteers who have been so valuable in getting so much of the work for GPGM done. If you still need a shift or have any questions regarding your shift, feel free to contact us: by email (absolutesolution@mindspring.com) or by fax (305) 672-1147 today!
Q. I still don't know when my GPGM Volunteer shift will take place. Where can I find out this information?
A. You can obtain this info any of the following ways:
- Email your question to us at absolutesolution@mindspring.com
- Fax your question to us at (305) 672-1147 (no telephone calls please)
- See us at the General Membership Meeting on November 13.
Q. Where do I go if my shift is on November 15, 16, 17 or 18?
A. Unless otherwise indicated on your confirmation postcard, everyone will report to the Coconut Grove Convention Center, 2700 South Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove.
Q. Is parking free and do I need to buy an entrance ticket to get in to work my shift?
A. Parking is free for everyone! If you are entering the building to work your shift you do not need an entrance ticket. All volunteers will first report to the ticket window labeled "VOLUNTEERS" to receive their name badge to enter the Market. Once inside go directly to the Volunteer Staging Area to check in. You will not receive credit unless you check in at the Volunteer Staging Area.
Q. How early do I need to arrive before my shift?
A. Plan to arrive at the volunteer staging area 15 minutes before your shift begins. Please avoid being late. If you arrive late plan to stay around longer to complete your four hours.
Q. What do I wear to work my shift and what other important information can you give me regarding my shift experience?
A. Dress comfortably and look smart. Please stay away from sport attire, i.e. workout clothes. We are meeting the public and representing the JLM. We appreciate your effort in this area! Remember to wear comfortable shoes because you may be on your feet for four hours. Also:
- Leave your purses at home or wear a small purse or fanny pack. The reason is simple we have no secure place to store your purses and belongings. Please leave your personal belongings home.
- Do not bring any children with you to your shift. This is for everyone's safety.
- Make arrangements to eat before your shift. Volunteers will have breaks during their shift but we cannot guarantee how soon or often breaks will occur. Please come prepared to begin working.
Q. What do I do if I have a real emergency and cannot be at my shift as scheduled?
A. It is your responsibility to be there or make private arrangements for someone to work in your place. In the case of emergencies (within 24 hours of your shift) you may leave a message with the Vol. Sched. Chair Kimberly Martin on her cell phone (305) 775-1050. If you miss your shift you will be assessed $75. We appreciate you making all necessary arrangements to work your shift as scheduled but do understand if a real emergency presents itself.
Q. Once my shift is over can I stick around and shop?
A. Absolutely! Just make sure you first return to the volunteer staging area and check out. Then you can stick around and shop or grab a bite in the Palm Cafe. You can also leave the Market and come back later in the day as long as you get your hand stamped.
Q. I just can't get enough.I want to help out and work an additional shift at the GPGM. How do I sign up?
A. Terrific! There are several critical periods when we will need more volunteers. Just make sure you contact us by email or fax first and we will gladly schedule you in! And, did we say "Thank You!"?
We look forward to tremendous success with the Golden Palm Gift Market and thank our volunteers for the integral part they play in this success!
Click here to buy tickets!
Back to top
|
