1990S
1990-1991 President: Mrs. Victor Sooter
A year of major fund-raising, important administrative innovations and researching of appropriate projects for the 90’s…Project Research developed Hip! Hip! for Gray! (crafts fair and related activities for senior citizens); Mini-Grants for Teachers; and Bedside Buddies (volunteer support for pediatrics) for 1991 implementation…Latchkey distributed 16,000 packets, used peer facilitators…WHO made presentations in 30 schools…both projects continued to receive rave reviews from teachers and school board staff…Lyrical Leaguers entertained nursing home residents…Food Bank volunteers helped keep the warehouse stocked…Public Relations/Marketing handled publicity for schools’ Red Ribbon Week; developed media blitz for AJL Immunization Project; entertained community and business leaders at Chamber of Commerce breakfast; hosted meeting of mall merchants…Advisory Planning tracked AJLI Bylaws overhaul, reworked bylaws concerning restrictive status …Arrangements/Education set a festive mood for an intense year, highlights being February showcase at Briarwood Hospital. March Spring Fling and parenting speaker, Dr. John Simoneaux…May Dinner at MacArthur Village was beautiful; president received Schnack’s award; Suzonne Hunter received Sustainer of the Year award…Entre Nous format was changed with five issues and introduction Entre Entre Nous…Nominating slated for conferences: Thrift Shop Personnel Policies, Leadership Institute, President’s meetings, President-elect training, and Annual Conference in Orlando (theme, “The Challenge for Our Earth”)…Placement helped members juggle dual placements, worked with Recording Secretary to track absences, used Mardi Gras theme for outstanding February showcase – Provisional/Admissions worked New to You stockroom, provided much needed support for follies committees, presented 17 members for Active membership…Public Affairs continued networking with other leagues through SPAC; participated in September SPAC on Education in Louisiana…Sustainer Committee hosted Provisionals for coffee, had a fun luncheon, filled in at New to You during Follies…Fiftieth Anniversary surveyed membership to formulate plans for ’91-’92…Yearbooks were great…Ways & Means researched cookbook feasibility, gathered input from other Leagues and our members, recommended another year of study…Community Committee appointed by president appraised New to You committee structure changed with more emphasis on promotions, full-time store manager hired, consignment discontinued, larger location being sought; bylaws change allows for paying for all shifts; turned over $50,000 profit to membership…Board meetings became more streamlined with consent agenda and board packet prepared monthly by Administrative Vice-President…complete new computer system purchased with AJLI interfacing capabilities…YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Kent House, River Oaks, Alexandria Museum, Alexandria/Pineville Drug Abuse Clinic, Food Bank, Red River Opera, Children’s Chorus, Chamber of Commerce, Gateway, Shepherd Center, Salvation Army, Boys & Girls Clubs, Arthritis Foundation…President represented League on community boards; Briarwood Advisory Board, CCDC, Central Louisiana Mental Health Coalition, Chamber of Commerce, Louisiana College Education Advisory committee…President appointed members to sit on boards of Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central Louisiana partners in literacy, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Symphony, Renaissance Home for Youth, Red River Opera, River Oaks Square, Volunteers of America, and YWCA…all Follies Chairmen did an exceptional job of maintaining positive moral during a difficult year; membership and community interacted in Meet the Director Party, and two spectacular productions of “Broadway Magic” for a profit of over $80,000…”Broadway Magic” profits truly set the stage for a new decade of wonderful project possibilities and superior training for our members.
1991-1992 President: Mrs. Ron Akins
Reflections of the past…visions of the future – 50th Anniversary celebrated 50 years of volunteer service to the community; honored Sustainers with reception at Kent House; held community reception in April; recognized Past Presidents and Charter Members at Annual Dinner; and presented a gift of $5,000 to the Alexandria Zoo and $5,000 to Rapides Parish Library’s Children’s Division commemorating our Anniversary…implemented seven community projects, four of which were new…Bedside Buddies, a pilot program providing relief time for parents of sick children, was implemented on the pediatrics floor of Rapides Regional Medical Center…Hip! Hip! for Gray! – a weekend of activities for area senior citizens. Crafts Fair returned $15,000 to senior citizen participants…Excellence in Teaching presented $10,000 to area teachers for classroom projects, principals with an awards dinner…Food Bank updated the brochure for the Food Bank of Central Louisiana, designed and donated two billboards, and sponsored the “Can Do” food train, collecting 1700 pounds of canned goods…Latchkey distributed 16,000 packets, distributed key chains at the Mall in conjunction with KZMZ radio, used peer facilitators, and presented Louie to students in grades K-6…WHO made presentations to 2nd, 5th and 8th graders…Lyrical Leaguers entertained nursing home residents…Public Affairs educated membership on environmental issues with “seat sheets” and Entre Nous articles, as well as continued networking with other Leagues in Louisiana through SPAC. Designed and distributed bookmarks throughout the state during Literacy Week … Project Research & Development continued research on teen issues and services, recommending two new projects for ’92-’93 – Helping Hands (committee to meet a variety of volunteer needs in community) and Children’s/Teen’s Services Booklet…Advisory Planning presented changes in bylaws that made maximum age for active 50 and for provisional 45 and modified admissions process…Arrangements/Education provided a relaxed atmosphere for meetings; assisted with 50th Anniversary arrangements; planned February business meeting at Briarwood, set up April mini-meetings at Alexandria Museum of Art, arranged May Dinner at Hotel Bentley celebrating anniversary, president received Schnack’s award, Gail Little received Sustainer of the Year award, and Sandra Rossby, winner of one of the Excellence in Teaching grants, and her South Alexandria Sixth Grade Center Choir provided entertainment, using special instruments purchased with the grant…Entre Nous had six outstanding issues focusing on project areas and the anniversary…published two issues of Entre Entre Nous membership newsletter…Nominating slated for delegates for six conferences, as well as Presidents’ meeting, President-elect training, and Annual Conference in New York City…Placement tracked both Active and Provisional members, used St. Patrick’s Day theme for annual project showcase …Provisional/Admissions worked Latchkey and Hip! Hip! for Gray! as well as worked on committees from October to February. 29 completed the course and were presented as new actives…Public Relations met with local media to discuss yearly calendar of events, resulting in excellent coverage of all project and anniversary activities. Presented all members with key chains commemorating anniversary and presents “hearts and flowers” to committees each month…Sustainer Committee assisted with HHG, hosted spring luncheon, and a party for Provisionals…Ways & Means continued to research new fund-raisers…Yearbook cover were designed with the new logo and distributed to all active and Provisionals…New to You turned over a record breaking profit of $69,000 to the general fund, continuing to provide funds for our projects and a much needed service to this community. Monthly incentives were presented, as well as the yearly incentive…Board packets and consent agendas were continued …new copy machine purchased; continued to expand use of new computer system …YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Kent House, River Oaks, Alexandria Museum, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council to sponsor 7 honorable mention awards in children’s art contest, Alexandria/Pineville Drug Abuse Clinic, Alexandria Ballet and Rapides Symphony for a performance of the Nutcracker for school children, Children’s Chorus, Boys & Girls Club, Chamber of Commerce, Gateways, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Graduate Safety Campaign, Crime Stoppers…President or appointee represented League on community boards: Briarwood Advisory Board, CCDC, Central LA Chamber of Commerce, Central LA Mental Health Coalition, Citizens for Public Education, Rapides Parish Endowment for Education, Louisiana College Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central LA Partners in Literacy, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Symphony, River Oaks Square, Volunteers of America, and YWCA … Reflecting on the rich heritage of the League in our community gave us a sense of pride in our past and a renewed confidence in our vision of the future as we continue to have a positive impact on this community and to train effective volunteers to continue the work of the Junior League of Alexandria.
1992-1993 President: Mrs. Charles F. Nunnally, III
Leadership…In our past, our present, our future…implemented eight community projects, two of which were new, Helping Hands, where our members could reach out with their volunteer skills for short term help to other non-profit agencies…Children’s & Teen’s Services Directory, a concise compilation of all social and healthcare related services for children and teens to be distributed for use as a reference by parents, educators, healthcare professionals, etc … Bedside Buddies, a program providing relief time for parents of sick children, was implemented on the pediatrics floor of Rapides Regional Medical Center and the pediatrics floor of St. Frances Cabrini Hospital…Excellence in Teaching, presented $500 grants to area teachers K-8 for classroom projects, provided training in preparing grants, and honored the recipients and their principals with an awards banquet…Hip! Hip! for Gray! celebrated a weekend of activities for area senior citizens, activities included Bingo, a style show, seminars, a Senior of the Year Award and a crafts show for seniors that returned almost $27,000 to its senior citizen participants…Latchkey distributed over 16,000 informational packets that included a Louie Latchkey refrigerator magnet with the Kidsline number…Lyrical Leaguers, a choral group that went into area nursing homes throughout the year providing entertainment and companionship to the elderly…WHO made presentations to 2nd and 5th graders in the parish on anti-victimization…Advisory Planning researched the Partnership Agreement from AJLI for implementation into our bylaws, presented changes in bylaws that made it possible to become sustainer before the age of 40 by completing 10 active years of service, amended attendance requirements to earning 5 meeting credits, simplified sponsorship for membership process, formed an Ad Hoc Long Range Planning Committee that Approach to Strategic Planning” and recommended to form a Cross-Functional Team next year to explore this further…Arrangements/ Headquarters provided a relaxed but festive mood for meeting, highlights being the Board Exchanges with the Kent House in Joy Hodges’ home and the Alexandria Museum Board in Nancy Cotton’s home; planned a special holiday meeting at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, and the business meeting at Briarwood in March; planned a fun, casual evening of fun at Kent House centered around a Crawfish Boil; arranged for an especially elegant Annual Dinner in May at the Alexandria Golf & Country Club – president received Schnack’s President’s Award, Adair Gwinn received the Sustainer of the Year Award … Education/Training provided programs and speakers throughout the year; Denise Laborde, “Ready, Set, Goal!”, a General Forum in October with Mary Vizzier and Molly Sooter as facilitators, Rich Ferguson in November with “Natural Arrangements for the Holidays”, Sissy Franks on the “Superwoman Syndrome”, Sandy Couvillion and Becky Martin on “Easy Low Fat Cooking”, Nerine Day on “Women and Finances”…Entre Nous published six issues focusing on Leadership, Ad Hoc Committee formed to study future changes for Entre Nous…New to You had another successful year, continuing to provide funds for our projects and a much needed service to the community. Monthly incentives were presented, as well as the yearly incentive. A part-time manager was hired. Also, an Ad Hoc Committee was formed to study the need for a larger location, committee returned a complete study and economic feasibility-recommended to move to a larger building as soon as possible; relocation effort continues…Nominating slated for conferences, the ODI, the President & President Elect’s meetings and training, and at the Annual Conference in St. Louis…Placement tracked both provisional and active members, worked with Recording Secretary to track absences, presented Placement Showcase in March…Project Research & Development continued research on teen issues and services, formed an Ad Hoc Committee to study the future of our present project and indicate new areas of interest…Provisional/Admissions placed new Provisionals on League committees while undergoing provisional course, 28 completed course, and were presented as new actives, began Mentoring Program…Public Affairs continued networking with other Louisiana leagues throughout SPAC participated with other Leagues in immunization initiative, “Shots for Tots” helped produce a public health video on immunization…Public Relations/Marketing presented local media with League year calendar of Events…Sustainer Program began a “Lunch Bunch” that met twice and a Book Club open to all Sustainers, hosted Provisionals in home of Mary Provine…Ways & Means researched a new annual fundraiser, recommended a “Raffle for Cash” to be held in October…Yearbook put all yearbook information on computer for easy publication in the future…Past President’s Club began a Past President’s Pictorial Gallery at League Headquarters with almost all 51 past presidents represented…Board packets and consent agendas were continued…continued to expand use of computer system…Executive Committee hosted a reception for Community Advisors at League Headquarters, presented League slide show and informational packet to each advisor…A benefit style show and luncheon was held at Gus Kaplan’s, all proceeds with to JLA…YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Rapides Symphony Youth Concert, Extra Mile, Camp Discovery at NSU, Boys & Girls Club’s “Back a Boy/Girl” program, Volunteers of America, Rapides Parish Library, the Shepherd Center, Kent House, Chamber of Commerce Gateways Project…President or appointee represented League on community boards; Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central Cities Development Corporation, Central LA Partners in Literacy, Chamber of Commerce of Central LA, Citizen’s for Public Education, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, LA College Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Parish Education Endowment, Rapides Symphony, Red Cross, Renaissance Home for Youth, River Oaks, Volunteers of America, YWCA…This report represents but an overview of the year’s events. The 1992-93 membership gave over 15,000 hours of service to the community while simultaneously evaluating our own placement needs and future trends in our membership. The League’s ability to adapt, while remaining true to its mission statement is a measure of its viability. The continued success of the League is assured by its own members’ commitment, its focus on leadership and by the continual influx of new interest, new ideas and challenges.
1993-1994 President: Mrs. Tim Stafford
Successfully completed and implemented six community projects: Children’s Teens’ Service Booklet; grant received from Coughlin-Saunders Foundation distributed 20,000 copies throughout Rapides, Grant & Natchitoches Parishes; choral group performed; Helping Hands provided services to other non-profit organizations; Bedside Buddies worked in area hospitals; Hip! Hip! for Gray! implemented with collaboration and support from Wallace Eye Center, Rapides General Hospital, Cabrini Hospital, Eckerd Drug; Mini-Grants for Teachers awarded 14 grants; Shots for Tots video published and distributed with cooperation of all Louisiana Leagues with the help of a grant from Cabrini Children’s Miracle Network; New to You continued to operate at a profit; received two awards: Louisiana Aging Network Association for our work with senior citizens and the Department of Health Louisiana Immunization Program for Shots for Tots video. Served as site for AJLI training. Three Entre Nous magazines were published and sent to the members and the community; Luminary news sheet was published as an in-league communication tool four times. The Board presented a Junior League quilt wall hanging to the members. Twenty-two Provisionals became Actives and forty-five prospective members were issued invitations. Provisionals completed a project for the Turning Point Shelter. Raffle was held and netted a profit of $6,500, with $4,500 turned over to the League. Assessment of committees was conducted through a Task Force. Cross Functional Team was established for future planning and to enable the League to focus our area of service. Grants Policy adopted by the Active league membership. Public Relations committee prepared a Scrapbook and a slide presentation for the Annual Meeting, as well as sending a written note of appreciation to all the community supporters. League awarded nine grants to the community: Alexandria Museum, Ballet Alexandria, Boys and Girls Club, Symphony, Central Louisiana Community Theater, Family Council Agencies, NSU Space Science Group, Shepherd Center Ministries (Hope House). League members served on community boards: Alexandria Museum, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Community Commendations for an Outstanding Teenager, Central Louisiana Partners in Literacy, Chamber of Commerce, Citizens for Public Education, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, LC Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Parish Education Endowment, Rapides Symphony, Red Cross, Renaissance Home for youth, River Oaks Square Arts & Crafts Center, Volunteers of America, YWCA. Mrs. Lois Coco retired after fourteen years of dedicated service.
1994-1995 President: Mrs. J. Ogden Middleton
CHILD ABUSE & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN – meticulous research and membership input lead Junior League to Child Abuse and Domestic Violence. A year of Strategic Planning & Focusing in preparation for the fast-paced 90’s. Developed a full strategic plan for the next five years. Accomplished deep research of community needs & League needs and interests. Presented the results to all League members. Narrowed down the needs by having the areas outlined and visualized by the Project Research Committee in its October presentation. Voted on our two focus areas in November, choosing serious and interrelated topics. Wrote definitions of the topic areas that we accept and will stand by. During January and February the Junior League wrote policies, goals and objectives and added to our overall purpose. On April 25, 1995, we sponsored a Panel Discussion in the courtroom of Judge F.A. Little, Jr. The discussion provided deep education and stimulation for members on the two focus areas. The panel members spoke powerful words to the members about the nuts and bolts of abuse and its consequences. Finally, committed ourselves to a Strategic Plan that focuses on our two focus areas and attempts to significantly impact the areas for the next five years. Relocated our major ongoing fundraiser, New to You. The new location offers a serviceable, well-conditioned building with a great location, good parking and pleasing appearance. New to You continues its goal of continuing to serve the community by offering “quality merchandise at extremely reasonable prices.” New to You fund-raising abilities were highlighted by the relocation as sales soared after the move. The monies will continue to fund projects in our community. Successfully implemented two community projects: Helping Hands and Mini-Grants for Teachers. Mini-Grants awarded 21 grants totaling $10,081.25 Helping Hands provided services to non-profit organizations while helping to relocate New to You. Accomplished streamlining of the League’s structure to reduce the number of administrative committees and to provide for a greater level of teamwork in the League. $7,500 in Grants to Community awarded. Citywide banners, television spots, radio announcements, and scrapbooks were implemented by the Public Relations Committee to nurture our visibility and our involvement in our two topic areas. A myriad to training opportunities offered to members, including sending six Active members to Annual Conference in San Francisco, CA. League members voluntarily served on a multitude of Community Boards. The League continues to position itself for the future while directing its energy towards dramatic impact on its two critical focus areas.
1995-1996 President: Mrs. David Jones, III
Change in the format of Follies, completely done locally, using a local director, choreography and set reflecting the changing Central Louisiana, titled, “The Big A”. All funds raised designated to focus areas, Domestic Violence Against Women and Child Abuse. Project research, working cross-functionally with Arrangements, Executive and Communication Team hosted a Community Roundtable luncheon to gather information the League used to decide to the project program for the next five years. First Steps, a program designed to provide a contact and information for new mothers after child birth about the stress of parenting, hopefully to thwart child abuse situations; Adopt A Room, to supply therapeutic toys for a room in the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center, 3R’s, a project designed to provide education for abused women to increase their chances to secure employment (this project will be funded through a grant from Red River Delta Law Enforcement Agency); We Can Solve This video, a project to collaborate with the school board to institute a conflict resolution video and program in the seventh grade classroom; Excellence in Teaching, up to $500 per mini grant up to $10,000 total given to teachers to use in the classroom (this project is funded in part through a grant from the Coughlin-Saunders Foundation). Placement coordinated the placement of all members, from the board to the Provisionals. Education/Public Affairs hosted the State SPAC meetings, re-addressed their bylaws, met in Washington, DC, and hosted guest speakers. New to You continued the success at the new location, celebrating first year anniversary with a provisional project, Birthday Sale-A-Bration, profits for the year were $67,075. Provisional/Admissions admitted 31 actives in December and proposed 52 new Provisionals for 1996-97. Excellence in Teaching awarded $10,000 through 23 mini grants for teachers. Grants Committee applied for and received three grants to apply towards our focus area projects. Finance Committee designated $8,000 in community grants money to be given to other non-profits for their programs in the areas of domestic violence and child abuse. League volunteers continued to serve on 20 Community Boards.
1996-1997 President: Ms. Rhonda H. Davenport
Building the Foundation-the main objective of the year was to give our five new community projects a solid base. This was accomplished by Adopt A Room completing its task of awarding the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center with $1,500 to equip the therapy room and also researching the best “tools” to use in that room; First Steps got off on the right foot by becoming associated with LA Council on Child Abuse and making contact with area hospitals. We Can Solve This compiled and printed the pamphlet that will accompany the video into the schools. The 3R’s Committee became The DoVE. Plan. It took on a whole new look. Meeting with direct victims of domestic violence the project was completely reworked and the victims will take on “hands on” projects that will be marketed. Skills will be gained that they can take away to build a new life. Excellence In Teaching-awarded over $10,000 worth of grants to 21 local classroom teachers; Advisory/Strategic Planning had all bylaws changed, ready to vote on by the September General Meeting; Arrangements prepared to handle noon meetings for the first time in our history. This was very well received. Education/Training brought us the Silent Witness Program that few will soon forget. They also pulled off a “progressive” meeting in April with speakers to educate us in our focus areas. Entre Nous gave us two beautiful issues. Luminary kept us up-to-date on the inner workings of the League each month. A scanner, video camera and computer software programs were purchased to accomplish this task. Public Relations brought us League T-shirts we can proudly wear. New to You had a record setting year – $130,000 in sales, $93,700 turned over to our general fund. Project Research presented two new projects for a vote – Turning Point Van Project and First Call for Help Phone Line. Provisional/Admissions – 37 Provisionals completed the course to go active and 35 more took up the challenge. SPAC/PAC provided an Alexandria Childwatch Bus Tour, bringing several other non-profits and funding sources together to allow them to see the projects we are involved with and seek their help. Our goals would not have been reached without the commitment and dedication of each member.
1997-1998 President: Mrs. Raymond Brown, Jr.
During 1997-98 we did internal housekeeping with respect to the By-Laws, Standing Rules and Policies & Procedures…accounts and accounting practices were simplified and consolidated …new computer hardware and software were purchased for headquarters … personnel policies and procedures and new job descriptions were implemented …a membership tracking system was developed and implemented…Placement/ Nominating designed a new, more streamlined Straw Ballot… Project Research & Development with the Ad Hoc Cookbook Committee researched, presented and proposed a cookbook as a new ongoing fundraiser-it was voted in…New to You had record sales again-a retail manager was hired – repairs and improvements were made and shop functions were Computerized…the Provisionals were an integral part of the Children’s Advocacy Center – Kastles for Kids Project. Child Watch promoted the new LSU-A childcare center…Luminary produced 10 issues Entre Nous, designed an informational brochure and a Town Talk insert, desktop publishing training was started… Excellence in Teaching again awarded over $10,000 to teachers in Rapides Parish…D.O.V.E spruced up its space at the Turning Point Shelter and acquired several computers for training … First Steps began seeing new mothers at Rapides Regional Medical Center… The Turning Point Van Committee, with over $10,000 from community donations and $15,000 in League funds, purchased a new 12-passenger van, 1 year of insurance and car seats for the Turning Point Shelter…We Can Solve This worked with the School Board and Partners in Education to bring nationally acclaimed speaker, Michael Pritchard, to speak to the 6th grade students in Rapides Parish about conflict resolution and provided a teacher in-service and his video to each school.
1998-1999 President: Mrs. Thomas McBride
Junior League of Alexandria membership adopted the new slogan, “Committed to Our Community” …Production began on the Junior League cookbook “Secret Ingredients” … Cookbook collected and tested over 400 recipes…The cookbook design and theme was established and the artwork and photographs near completion…In-League fundraising for the cookbook was successful…Production continues and publication is slated for Spring of 2000…New to You continues as a main source of income…Efforts continued in refining internal procedures and shop appearance…new membership status “PROS ” was voted in to promote member retention…Nominating/Placement developed exit interviews and increased the League training budget…Four League members attended O.D.I….First Steps program was successfully completed and handed over to Prevent Child Abuse in La…Excellence-In-Teaching awarded over $11,000 in Mini-Grants in its eighth and final year…DoVE developed a new approach to increase domestic violence awareness and assist Turning Point Shelter…Project Research & Development was awarded a $12,000 grant from the Rapides Foundation for youth counselor Michael Pritchard to speak at the Rapides Parish teacher in-service and to all Rapides Parish sixth graders…The program will continue as Think BLINK…Voted to continue focus on child abuse and domestic violence against women…Three projects were voted in for 1999-2000 …Provisionals spearheaded Kastles For Kids, helping to raise over $10,000 for The Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center…Junior League of Alexandria returned over $36,000 to the community during the year.
1999-2000 President: Mrs. Paul Stich
The League year 1999-2000 was exceptional due to the efforts of our members. Production of our new cookbook, Secret Ingredients, was completed resulting in the first printing of 15,000 copies in April of 2000. In addition to final design and editing, the cookbook committee drafted and began implementation of the initial marketing plan. We accepted our first delivery of Secret Ingredients on April 7, 2000 and through May 31, 2000 had sold 4,200 copies. The corporate underwriting campaign for the cookbook raised $97,500 towards development and printing costs which will allow us to generate profit much sooner. New To You transferred $71,300 to the general fund, after absorbing expenses previously paid out of the general fund. We continued to refine our projects in the areas of domestic violence against women and child abuse. The Think BLINK committee brought in Michael Pritchard, a nationally recognized speaker on conflict resolution, to address all sixth grade students in Rapides Parish. The project was expanded this year to include private school students. DoVE furthered public awareness with a workplace campaign. By collaborating with the local business community, we were able to display 1,000 posters and 10,000 informational cards in women’s rest rooms throughout Rapides Parish. DoVE also directed funds to Legal Aide Services to provide for a paralegal to assist victims of domestic violence for services available. DoVE supported Turning Point Shelter with a luncheon for staff and a fun day for residents and their children. 1999-2000 also saw our first year with In Love and In Danger, a project directed to educate teenage girls on the warning signs of dating violence. Efforts were directed to further our mission internally with the adoption of the Council System form of governance designed to streamline our organizational structure. Advisory Planning conducted research on the Council System, held focus meetings with League members and proposed the final structure to the membership who voted in this new governance model. Our Education/Training committee arranged for speakers at various meeting including, State Senator Willie Mount, self defense training offered to all members and a guest speaker, Paula Statman for our Annual Dinner. PAC/SPAC efforts toward public advocacy were evident in our participation in the state Hepatitis B Vaccination project and a forum for League members on the new community schools plan proposed by the Rapides Parish School Board. A total of $44,559 was expended in mission driven activities including training, public advocacy and community projects. With a stronger funding base in place with Secret Ingredients and a streamlined organizational structure through the council system, the Junior League of Alexandria is well positioned to begin the 21st century.
A year of major fund-raising, important administrative innovations and researching of appropriate projects for the 90’s…Project Research developed Hip! Hip! for Gray! (crafts fair and related activities for senior citizens); Mini-Grants for Teachers; and Bedside Buddies (volunteer support for pediatrics) for 1991 implementation…Latchkey distributed 16,000 packets, used peer facilitators…WHO made presentations in 30 schools…both projects continued to receive rave reviews from teachers and school board staff…Lyrical Leaguers entertained nursing home residents…Food Bank volunteers helped keep the warehouse stocked…Public Relations/Marketing handled publicity for schools’ Red Ribbon Week; developed media blitz for AJL Immunization Project; entertained community and business leaders at Chamber of Commerce breakfast; hosted meeting of mall merchants…Advisory Planning tracked AJLI Bylaws overhaul, reworked bylaws concerning restrictive status …Arrangements/Education set a festive mood for an intense year, highlights being February showcase at Briarwood Hospital. March Spring Fling and parenting speaker, Dr. John Simoneaux…May Dinner at MacArthur Village was beautiful; president received Schnack’s award; Suzonne Hunter received Sustainer of the Year award…Entre Nous format was changed with five issues and introduction Entre Entre Nous…Nominating slated for conferences: Thrift Shop Personnel Policies, Leadership Institute, President’s meetings, President-elect training, and Annual Conference in Orlando (theme, “The Challenge for Our Earth”)…Placement helped members juggle dual placements, worked with Recording Secretary to track absences, used Mardi Gras theme for outstanding February showcase – Provisional/Admissions worked New to You stockroom, provided much needed support for follies committees, presented 17 members for Active membership…Public Affairs continued networking with other leagues through SPAC; participated in September SPAC on Education in Louisiana…Sustainer Committee hosted Provisionals for coffee, had a fun luncheon, filled in at New to You during Follies…Fiftieth Anniversary surveyed membership to formulate plans for ’91-’92…Yearbooks were great…Ways & Means researched cookbook feasibility, gathered input from other Leagues and our members, recommended another year of study…Community Committee appointed by president appraised New to You committee structure changed with more emphasis on promotions, full-time store manager hired, consignment discontinued, larger location being sought; bylaws change allows for paying for all shifts; turned over $50,000 profit to membership…Board meetings became more streamlined with consent agenda and board packet prepared monthly by Administrative Vice-President…complete new computer system purchased with AJLI interfacing capabilities…YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Kent House, River Oaks, Alexandria Museum, Alexandria/Pineville Drug Abuse Clinic, Food Bank, Red River Opera, Children’s Chorus, Chamber of Commerce, Gateway, Shepherd Center, Salvation Army, Boys & Girls Clubs, Arthritis Foundation…President represented League on community boards; Briarwood Advisory Board, CCDC, Central Louisiana Mental Health Coalition, Chamber of Commerce, Louisiana College Education Advisory committee…President appointed members to sit on boards of Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central Louisiana partners in literacy, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Symphony, Renaissance Home for Youth, Red River Opera, River Oaks Square, Volunteers of America, and YWCA…all Follies Chairmen did an exceptional job of maintaining positive moral during a difficult year; membership and community interacted in Meet the Director Party, and two spectacular productions of “Broadway Magic” for a profit of over $80,000…”Broadway Magic” profits truly set the stage for a new decade of wonderful project possibilities and superior training for our members.
1991-1992 President: Mrs. Ron Akins
Reflections of the past…visions of the future – 50th Anniversary celebrated 50 years of volunteer service to the community; honored Sustainers with reception at Kent House; held community reception in April; recognized Past Presidents and Charter Members at Annual Dinner; and presented a gift of $5,000 to the Alexandria Zoo and $5,000 to Rapides Parish Library’s Children’s Division commemorating our Anniversary…implemented seven community projects, four of which were new…Bedside Buddies, a pilot program providing relief time for parents of sick children, was implemented on the pediatrics floor of Rapides Regional Medical Center…Hip! Hip! for Gray! – a weekend of activities for area senior citizens. Crafts Fair returned $15,000 to senior citizen participants…Excellence in Teaching presented $10,000 to area teachers for classroom projects, principals with an awards dinner…Food Bank updated the brochure for the Food Bank of Central Louisiana, designed and donated two billboards, and sponsored the “Can Do” food train, collecting 1700 pounds of canned goods…Latchkey distributed 16,000 packets, distributed key chains at the Mall in conjunction with KZMZ radio, used peer facilitators, and presented Louie to students in grades K-6…WHO made presentations to 2nd, 5th and 8th graders…Lyrical Leaguers entertained nursing home residents…Public Affairs educated membership on environmental issues with “seat sheets” and Entre Nous articles, as well as continued networking with other Leagues in Louisiana through SPAC. Designed and distributed bookmarks throughout the state during Literacy Week … Project Research & Development continued research on teen issues and services, recommending two new projects for ’92-’93 – Helping Hands (committee to meet a variety of volunteer needs in community) and Children’s/Teen’s Services Booklet…Advisory Planning presented changes in bylaws that made maximum age for active 50 and for provisional 45 and modified admissions process…Arrangements/Education provided a relaxed atmosphere for meetings; assisted with 50th Anniversary arrangements; planned February business meeting at Briarwood, set up April mini-meetings at Alexandria Museum of Art, arranged May Dinner at Hotel Bentley celebrating anniversary, president received Schnack’s award, Gail Little received Sustainer of the Year award, and Sandra Rossby, winner of one of the Excellence in Teaching grants, and her South Alexandria Sixth Grade Center Choir provided entertainment, using special instruments purchased with the grant…Entre Nous had six outstanding issues focusing on project areas and the anniversary…published two issues of Entre Entre Nous membership newsletter…Nominating slated for delegates for six conferences, as well as Presidents’ meeting, President-elect training, and Annual Conference in New York City…Placement tracked both Active and Provisional members, used St. Patrick’s Day theme for annual project showcase …Provisional/Admissions worked Latchkey and Hip! Hip! for Gray! as well as worked on committees from October to February. 29 completed the course and were presented as new actives…Public Relations met with local media to discuss yearly calendar of events, resulting in excellent coverage of all project and anniversary activities. Presented all members with key chains commemorating anniversary and presents “hearts and flowers” to committees each month…Sustainer Committee assisted with HHG, hosted spring luncheon, and a party for Provisionals…Ways & Means continued to research new fund-raisers…Yearbook cover were designed with the new logo and distributed to all active and Provisionals…New to You turned over a record breaking profit of $69,000 to the general fund, continuing to provide funds for our projects and a much needed service to this community. Monthly incentives were presented, as well as the yearly incentive…Board packets and consent agendas were continued …new copy machine purchased; continued to expand use of new computer system …YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Kent House, River Oaks, Alexandria Museum, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council to sponsor 7 honorable mention awards in children’s art contest, Alexandria/Pineville Drug Abuse Clinic, Alexandria Ballet and Rapides Symphony for a performance of the Nutcracker for school children, Children’s Chorus, Boys & Girls Club, Chamber of Commerce, Gateways, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Graduate Safety Campaign, Crime Stoppers…President or appointee represented League on community boards: Briarwood Advisory Board, CCDC, Central LA Chamber of Commerce, Central LA Mental Health Coalition, Citizens for Public Education, Rapides Parish Endowment for Education, Louisiana College Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central LA Partners in Literacy, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Symphony, River Oaks Square, Volunteers of America, and YWCA … Reflecting on the rich heritage of the League in our community gave us a sense of pride in our past and a renewed confidence in our vision of the future as we continue to have a positive impact on this community and to train effective volunteers to continue the work of the Junior League of Alexandria.
1992-1993 President: Mrs. Charles F. Nunnally, III
Leadership…In our past, our present, our future…implemented eight community projects, two of which were new, Helping Hands, where our members could reach out with their volunteer skills for short term help to other non-profit agencies…Children’s & Teen’s Services Directory, a concise compilation of all social and healthcare related services for children and teens to be distributed for use as a reference by parents, educators, healthcare professionals, etc … Bedside Buddies, a program providing relief time for parents of sick children, was implemented on the pediatrics floor of Rapides Regional Medical Center and the pediatrics floor of St. Frances Cabrini Hospital…Excellence in Teaching, presented $500 grants to area teachers K-8 for classroom projects, provided training in preparing grants, and honored the recipients and their principals with an awards banquet…Hip! Hip! for Gray! celebrated a weekend of activities for area senior citizens, activities included Bingo, a style show, seminars, a Senior of the Year Award and a crafts show for seniors that returned almost $27,000 to its senior citizen participants…Latchkey distributed over 16,000 informational packets that included a Louie Latchkey refrigerator magnet with the Kidsline number…Lyrical Leaguers, a choral group that went into area nursing homes throughout the year providing entertainment and companionship to the elderly…WHO made presentations to 2nd and 5th graders in the parish on anti-victimization…Advisory Planning researched the Partnership Agreement from AJLI for implementation into our bylaws, presented changes in bylaws that made it possible to become sustainer before the age of 40 by completing 10 active years of service, amended attendance requirements to earning 5 meeting credits, simplified sponsorship for membership process, formed an Ad Hoc Long Range Planning Committee that Approach to Strategic Planning” and recommended to form a Cross-Functional Team next year to explore this further…Arrangements/ Headquarters provided a relaxed but festive mood for meeting, highlights being the Board Exchanges with the Kent House in Joy Hodges’ home and the Alexandria Museum Board in Nancy Cotton’s home; planned a special holiday meeting at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, and the business meeting at Briarwood in March; planned a fun, casual evening of fun at Kent House centered around a Crawfish Boil; arranged for an especially elegant Annual Dinner in May at the Alexandria Golf & Country Club – president received Schnack’s President’s Award, Adair Gwinn received the Sustainer of the Year Award … Education/Training provided programs and speakers throughout the year; Denise Laborde, “Ready, Set, Goal!”, a General Forum in October with Mary Vizzier and Molly Sooter as facilitators, Rich Ferguson in November with “Natural Arrangements for the Holidays”, Sissy Franks on the “Superwoman Syndrome”, Sandy Couvillion and Becky Martin on “Easy Low Fat Cooking”, Nerine Day on “Women and Finances”…Entre Nous published six issues focusing on Leadership, Ad Hoc Committee formed to study future changes for Entre Nous…New to You had another successful year, continuing to provide funds for our projects and a much needed service to the community. Monthly incentives were presented, as well as the yearly incentive. A part-time manager was hired. Also, an Ad Hoc Committee was formed to study the need for a larger location, committee returned a complete study and economic feasibility-recommended to move to a larger building as soon as possible; relocation effort continues…Nominating slated for conferences, the ODI, the President & President Elect’s meetings and training, and at the Annual Conference in St. Louis…Placement tracked both provisional and active members, worked with Recording Secretary to track absences, presented Placement Showcase in March…Project Research & Development continued research on teen issues and services, formed an Ad Hoc Committee to study the future of our present project and indicate new areas of interest…Provisional/Admissions placed new Provisionals on League committees while undergoing provisional course, 28 completed course, and were presented as new actives, began Mentoring Program…Public Affairs continued networking with other Louisiana leagues throughout SPAC participated with other Leagues in immunization initiative, “Shots for Tots” helped produce a public health video on immunization…Public Relations/Marketing presented local media with League year calendar of Events…Sustainer Program began a “Lunch Bunch” that met twice and a Book Club open to all Sustainers, hosted Provisionals in home of Mary Provine…Ways & Means researched a new annual fundraiser, recommended a “Raffle for Cash” to be held in October…Yearbook put all yearbook information on computer for easy publication in the future…Past President’s Club began a Past President’s Pictorial Gallery at League Headquarters with almost all 51 past presidents represented…Board packets and consent agendas were continued…continued to expand use of computer system…Executive Committee hosted a reception for Community Advisors at League Headquarters, presented League slide show and informational packet to each advisor…A benefit style show and luncheon was held at Gus Kaplan’s, all proceeds with to JLA…YWCA Kidsline (Latchkey) funding continued…grants made to Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Rapides Symphony Youth Concert, Extra Mile, Camp Discovery at NSU, Boys & Girls Club’s “Back a Boy/Girl” program, Volunteers of America, Rapides Parish Library, the Shepherd Center, Kent House, Chamber of Commerce Gateways Project…President or appointee represented League on community boards; Alexandria Museum of Art, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Central Cities Development Corporation, Central LA Partners in Literacy, Chamber of Commerce of Central LA, Citizen’s for Public Education, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, LA College Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Parish Education Endowment, Rapides Symphony, Red Cross, Renaissance Home for Youth, River Oaks, Volunteers of America, YWCA…This report represents but an overview of the year’s events. The 1992-93 membership gave over 15,000 hours of service to the community while simultaneously evaluating our own placement needs and future trends in our membership. The League’s ability to adapt, while remaining true to its mission statement is a measure of its viability. The continued success of the League is assured by its own members’ commitment, its focus on leadership and by the continual influx of new interest, new ideas and challenges.
1993-1994 President: Mrs. Tim Stafford
Successfully completed and implemented six community projects: Children’s Teens’ Service Booklet; grant received from Coughlin-Saunders Foundation distributed 20,000 copies throughout Rapides, Grant & Natchitoches Parishes; choral group performed; Helping Hands provided services to other non-profit organizations; Bedside Buddies worked in area hospitals; Hip! Hip! for Gray! implemented with collaboration and support from Wallace Eye Center, Rapides General Hospital, Cabrini Hospital, Eckerd Drug; Mini-Grants for Teachers awarded 14 grants; Shots for Tots video published and distributed with cooperation of all Louisiana Leagues with the help of a grant from Cabrini Children’s Miracle Network; New to You continued to operate at a profit; received two awards: Louisiana Aging Network Association for our work with senior citizens and the Department of Health Louisiana Immunization Program for Shots for Tots video. Served as site for AJLI training. Three Entre Nous magazines were published and sent to the members and the community; Luminary news sheet was published as an in-league communication tool four times. The Board presented a Junior League quilt wall hanging to the members. Twenty-two Provisionals became Actives and forty-five prospective members were issued invitations. Provisionals completed a project for the Turning Point Shelter. Raffle was held and netted a profit of $6,500, with $4,500 turned over to the League. Assessment of committees was conducted through a Task Force. Cross Functional Team was established for future planning and to enable the League to focus our area of service. Grants Policy adopted by the Active league membership. Public Relations committee prepared a Scrapbook and a slide presentation for the Annual Meeting, as well as sending a written note of appreciation to all the community supporters. League awarded nine grants to the community: Alexandria Museum, Ballet Alexandria, Boys and Girls Club, Symphony, Central Louisiana Community Theater, Family Council Agencies, NSU Space Science Group, Shepherd Center Ministries (Hope House). League members served on community boards: Alexandria Museum, Cenla Chemical Dependency Council, Community Commendations for an Outstanding Teenager, Central Louisiana Partners in Literacy, Chamber of Commerce, Citizens for Public Education, Crime Stoppers, Food Bank of Central LA, Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, Kent House, LC Continuing Education Advisory Committee, Rapides Arts & Humanities Council, Rapides Parish Education Endowment, Rapides Symphony, Red Cross, Renaissance Home for youth, River Oaks Square Arts & Crafts Center, Volunteers of America, YWCA. Mrs. Lois Coco retired after fourteen years of dedicated service.
1994-1995 President: Mrs. J. Ogden Middleton
CHILD ABUSE & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN – meticulous research and membership input lead Junior League to Child Abuse and Domestic Violence. A year of Strategic Planning & Focusing in preparation for the fast-paced 90’s. Developed a full strategic plan for the next five years. Accomplished deep research of community needs & League needs and interests. Presented the results to all League members. Narrowed down the needs by having the areas outlined and visualized by the Project Research Committee in its October presentation. Voted on our two focus areas in November, choosing serious and interrelated topics. Wrote definitions of the topic areas that we accept and will stand by. During January and February the Junior League wrote policies, goals and objectives and added to our overall purpose. On April 25, 1995, we sponsored a Panel Discussion in the courtroom of Judge F.A. Little, Jr. The discussion provided deep education and stimulation for members on the two focus areas. The panel members spoke powerful words to the members about the nuts and bolts of abuse and its consequences. Finally, committed ourselves to a Strategic Plan that focuses on our two focus areas and attempts to significantly impact the areas for the next five years. Relocated our major ongoing fundraiser, New to You. The new location offers a serviceable, well-conditioned building with a great location, good parking and pleasing appearance. New to You continues its goal of continuing to serve the community by offering “quality merchandise at extremely reasonable prices.” New to You fund-raising abilities were highlighted by the relocation as sales soared after the move. The monies will continue to fund projects in our community. Successfully implemented two community projects: Helping Hands and Mini-Grants for Teachers. Mini-Grants awarded 21 grants totaling $10,081.25 Helping Hands provided services to non-profit organizations while helping to relocate New to You. Accomplished streamlining of the League’s structure to reduce the number of administrative committees and to provide for a greater level of teamwork in the League. $7,500 in Grants to Community awarded. Citywide banners, television spots, radio announcements, and scrapbooks were implemented by the Public Relations Committee to nurture our visibility and our involvement in our two topic areas. A myriad to training opportunities offered to members, including sending six Active members to Annual Conference in San Francisco, CA. League members voluntarily served on a multitude of Community Boards. The League continues to position itself for the future while directing its energy towards dramatic impact on its two critical focus areas.
1995-1996 President: Mrs. David Jones, III
Change in the format of Follies, completely done locally, using a local director, choreography and set reflecting the changing Central Louisiana, titled, “The Big A”. All funds raised designated to focus areas, Domestic Violence Against Women and Child Abuse. Project research, working cross-functionally with Arrangements, Executive and Communication Team hosted a Community Roundtable luncheon to gather information the League used to decide to the project program for the next five years. First Steps, a program designed to provide a contact and information for new mothers after child birth about the stress of parenting, hopefully to thwart child abuse situations; Adopt A Room, to supply therapeutic toys for a room in the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center, 3R’s, a project designed to provide education for abused women to increase their chances to secure employment (this project will be funded through a grant from Red River Delta Law Enforcement Agency); We Can Solve This video, a project to collaborate with the school board to institute a conflict resolution video and program in the seventh grade classroom; Excellence in Teaching, up to $500 per mini grant up to $10,000 total given to teachers to use in the classroom (this project is funded in part through a grant from the Coughlin-Saunders Foundation). Placement coordinated the placement of all members, from the board to the Provisionals. Education/Public Affairs hosted the State SPAC meetings, re-addressed their bylaws, met in Washington, DC, and hosted guest speakers. New to You continued the success at the new location, celebrating first year anniversary with a provisional project, Birthday Sale-A-Bration, profits for the year were $67,075. Provisional/Admissions admitted 31 actives in December and proposed 52 new Provisionals for 1996-97. Excellence in Teaching awarded $10,000 through 23 mini grants for teachers. Grants Committee applied for and received three grants to apply towards our focus area projects. Finance Committee designated $8,000 in community grants money to be given to other non-profits for their programs in the areas of domestic violence and child abuse. League volunteers continued to serve on 20 Community Boards.
1996-1997 President: Ms. Rhonda H. Davenport
Building the Foundation-the main objective of the year was to give our five new community projects a solid base. This was accomplished by Adopt A Room completing its task of awarding the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center with $1,500 to equip the therapy room and also researching the best “tools” to use in that room; First Steps got off on the right foot by becoming associated with LA Council on Child Abuse and making contact with area hospitals. We Can Solve This compiled and printed the pamphlet that will accompany the video into the schools. The 3R’s Committee became The DoVE. Plan. It took on a whole new look. Meeting with direct victims of domestic violence the project was completely reworked and the victims will take on “hands on” projects that will be marketed. Skills will be gained that they can take away to build a new life. Excellence In Teaching-awarded over $10,000 worth of grants to 21 local classroom teachers; Advisory/Strategic Planning had all bylaws changed, ready to vote on by the September General Meeting; Arrangements prepared to handle noon meetings for the first time in our history. This was very well received. Education/Training brought us the Silent Witness Program that few will soon forget. They also pulled off a “progressive” meeting in April with speakers to educate us in our focus areas. Entre Nous gave us two beautiful issues. Luminary kept us up-to-date on the inner workings of the League each month. A scanner, video camera and computer software programs were purchased to accomplish this task. Public Relations brought us League T-shirts we can proudly wear. New to You had a record setting year – $130,000 in sales, $93,700 turned over to our general fund. Project Research presented two new projects for a vote – Turning Point Van Project and First Call for Help Phone Line. Provisional/Admissions – 37 Provisionals completed the course to go active and 35 more took up the challenge. SPAC/PAC provided an Alexandria Childwatch Bus Tour, bringing several other non-profits and funding sources together to allow them to see the projects we are involved with and seek their help. Our goals would not have been reached without the commitment and dedication of each member.
1997-1998 President: Mrs. Raymond Brown, Jr.
During 1997-98 we did internal housekeeping with respect to the By-Laws, Standing Rules and Policies & Procedures…accounts and accounting practices were simplified and consolidated …new computer hardware and software were purchased for headquarters … personnel policies and procedures and new job descriptions were implemented …a membership tracking system was developed and implemented…Placement/ Nominating designed a new, more streamlined Straw Ballot… Project Research & Development with the Ad Hoc Cookbook Committee researched, presented and proposed a cookbook as a new ongoing fundraiser-it was voted in…New to You had record sales again-a retail manager was hired – repairs and improvements were made and shop functions were Computerized…the Provisionals were an integral part of the Children’s Advocacy Center – Kastles for Kids Project. Child Watch promoted the new LSU-A childcare center…Luminary produced 10 issues Entre Nous, designed an informational brochure and a Town Talk insert, desktop publishing training was started… Excellence in Teaching again awarded over $10,000 to teachers in Rapides Parish…D.O.V.E spruced up its space at the Turning Point Shelter and acquired several computers for training … First Steps began seeing new mothers at Rapides Regional Medical Center… The Turning Point Van Committee, with over $10,000 from community donations and $15,000 in League funds, purchased a new 12-passenger van, 1 year of insurance and car seats for the Turning Point Shelter…We Can Solve This worked with the School Board and Partners in Education to bring nationally acclaimed speaker, Michael Pritchard, to speak to the 6th grade students in Rapides Parish about conflict resolution and provided a teacher in-service and his video to each school.
1998-1999 President: Mrs. Thomas McBride
Junior League of Alexandria membership adopted the new slogan, “Committed to Our Community” …Production began on the Junior League cookbook “Secret Ingredients” … Cookbook collected and tested over 400 recipes…The cookbook design and theme was established and the artwork and photographs near completion…In-League fundraising for the cookbook was successful…Production continues and publication is slated for Spring of 2000…New to You continues as a main source of income…Efforts continued in refining internal procedures and shop appearance…new membership status “PROS ” was voted in to promote member retention…Nominating/Placement developed exit interviews and increased the League training budget…Four League members attended O.D.I….First Steps program was successfully completed and handed over to Prevent Child Abuse in La…Excellence-In-Teaching awarded over $11,000 in Mini-Grants in its eighth and final year…DoVE developed a new approach to increase domestic violence awareness and assist Turning Point Shelter…Project Research & Development was awarded a $12,000 grant from the Rapides Foundation for youth counselor Michael Pritchard to speak at the Rapides Parish teacher in-service and to all Rapides Parish sixth graders…The program will continue as Think BLINK…Voted to continue focus on child abuse and domestic violence against women…Three projects were voted in for 1999-2000 …Provisionals spearheaded Kastles For Kids, helping to raise over $10,000 for The Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center…Junior League of Alexandria returned over $36,000 to the community during the year.
1999-2000 President: Mrs. Paul Stich
The League year 1999-2000 was exceptional due to the efforts of our members. Production of our new cookbook, Secret Ingredients, was completed resulting in the first printing of 15,000 copies in April of 2000. In addition to final design and editing, the cookbook committee drafted and began implementation of the initial marketing plan. We accepted our first delivery of Secret Ingredients on April 7, 2000 and through May 31, 2000 had sold 4,200 copies. The corporate underwriting campaign for the cookbook raised $97,500 towards development and printing costs which will allow us to generate profit much sooner. New To You transferred $71,300 to the general fund, after absorbing expenses previously paid out of the general fund. We continued to refine our projects in the areas of domestic violence against women and child abuse. The Think BLINK committee brought in Michael Pritchard, a nationally recognized speaker on conflict resolution, to address all sixth grade students in Rapides Parish. The project was expanded this year to include private school students. DoVE furthered public awareness with a workplace campaign. By collaborating with the local business community, we were able to display 1,000 posters and 10,000 informational cards in women’s rest rooms throughout Rapides Parish. DoVE also directed funds to Legal Aide Services to provide for a paralegal to assist victims of domestic violence for services available. DoVE supported Turning Point Shelter with a luncheon for staff and a fun day for residents and their children. 1999-2000 also saw our first year with In Love and In Danger, a project directed to educate teenage girls on the warning signs of dating violence. Efforts were directed to further our mission internally with the adoption of the Council System form of governance designed to streamline our organizational structure. Advisory Planning conducted research on the Council System, held focus meetings with League members and proposed the final structure to the membership who voted in this new governance model. Our Education/Training committee arranged for speakers at various meeting including, State Senator Willie Mount, self defense training offered to all members and a guest speaker, Paula Statman for our Annual Dinner. PAC/SPAC efforts toward public advocacy were evident in our participation in the state Hepatitis B Vaccination project and a forum for League members on the new community schools plan proposed by the Rapides Parish School Board. A total of $44,559 was expended in mission driven activities including training, public advocacy and community projects. With a stronger funding base in place with Secret Ingredients and a streamlined organizational structure through the council system, the Junior League of Alexandria is well positioned to begin the 21st century.