Chocolate Fantasy Ball for Ronald McDonald House

Twelve members of the council helped staff the Chocolate Fantasy Ball, a fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House on February 10 at the Embassy Suites in Little Rock. The morning crew helped to dress the tables, tying drapes on chairs, folding napkins and polishing silver. The evening crew cut cakes, chocolate squares, dipped up creme bruelle, kept the food tables full and assisted with seating guests and manning the live auction. About 400 elegantly dressed guests generously spent their money at the silent and live auctions and took advantage of the chance to pay for families' lodging at the Ronald McDonald House by the night or by the month. This non-profit provides a home away from home for families whose critically ill children are being treated by Children's Hospital. Pictured are "chocolate girls" Rachel Dennis, Amber Turner, Mallory Grantham, and JoNeece Carter - Jason Gillard with Ronald McDonald - Katya Lyzhina and Rachel tying the chair swags - Rachael and Mallory trying a chocolate-covered strawberry - and Zach House and Shelby Underwood greeting guests.

At the Lions Club

Jason Gillard spoke to the NLR Lions Club on February 8 at their noon meeting. He was there to give them an update on his CyberFamilies program and to tell them about the council's efforts to do some upgrading on the NLR Boys and Girls Club. One Lions Club member brought a computer monitor for CyberFamilies.

Council Member Serves on YSAC Committee

Council member Marshalluna Land serves on the YSAC committee to represent the youth in the community. She is shown here at the February meeting listening to information about the city's mapping of grafitti and tagging in the city. YSAC is made up of youth services providers that meets monthly to network and learn what's going on in the community with issues that involve youth. Marshalluna was employed by the city last summer in their summer youth program. The committee was started by Steve Nawojczyk in the city's Youth Services Program.

Cold Blooded Creatures at the Museum of Discovery

Eight council members helped the museum with one of our favorite volunteer events -
Cold Blooded Creatures.
Visitors at the museum could spend the day with snakes, turtles, alligators, frogs, salamanders, toads and other cold-blooded creatures. They learned about their habitats and habits and learned to recognize the venomous snakes that live in Arkansas.
Members shown are Chelsea Smith, Jessica
Scott, Jason Gillard and Kelli Golden.
www.arkansasdiscoverynetwork.org

Pinnacle Mountain Is For the Birds

Three Council members worked with Pulaski Academy volunteers to make suet and peanut cakes mixed with bird seed. The mixture was formed into balls and put into potato sack holders tied with twine. These were given to the volunteers to take home and to people who came to the Visitors' Center to learn about how to feed wild birds. The view of the river was spectacular and an added treat was the sighting of an eagle that was riding the thermals. Volunteers were Stephanie Davis, Katya Lyzhina and Jeremy Smith.

Group Takes on Renovation of the NLR Boys and Girls Club

The Council is looking for community support in their efforts to rennovate parts of the NLR Boys and Girls Club at 13th and Main. Several areas have been targeted for improvement - re-doing the room designated as a "teen" room and the glassed-in room in the playroom. Other ideas include collecting art supplies for the art room and books for the library; getting donations of new computers, monitors and software for the computer room and teen room; getting donations of board games and electronic games for the library; getting donations of movies/DVD's and popcorn for the teen room; and seeking sponsorship of the various rooms by companies or volunteer organizations.
These ideas were the result of the tour of the facility by council members and students in the STARS program. Students pictured are Zach Hall, Jason Gillard (project master-mind), Katya Lyzhina, Kevin O'Sullivan (whose ideas are listed), Jeremy Smith, Stephanie Davis and Darren Muldrew. Lisa and Nayali are STARS members. Anyone wishing to help with the rennovation by donating, time, items or money, please call Jan Scholl at 834-3784.
www.arclubs.org

Dorcas House Benefits from Molly Leopard's Project

Molly Leopard has chosen to help the Dorcas House in Little Rock for her Start Something Project. Dorcas House is a crisis response shelter for women and children who are endangered by domestic violence. Molly is asking for a collection of women's and children's clothing, toys for kids, and canned and packaged food. Clean, gently-used clothing is acceptable, as are used toys that are clean and in good condition. Please bring your contribution to the February meeting.

Kenya Kids - Cody Styers' Start Something Project

Cody Styers has kicked off his Start Something Project called Kenya Kids. The Council will participate in a drive for items to send to an orphanage in Kenya, Africa, in April. Fellowship Bible Church where he is a member is partnerning with the Kenya Relief Office in Alabama to help fill the needs of the Kenyans. Toiletries will be the focus of the council's collection. Members are asked to bring items to the February meeting. The list of items listed below can be donated by calling 834-3784.
(Cody is pictured working at the Rice Depot.)
toiletries
toothbrush, tooth paste, mouthwash
deodorant, feminine pads, small hand mirrors
soap, liquid bath soap, shampoo and conditioner
hair brushes, combs, tweezers
lotions, hair clippers, q-tips
liquid shower cleaner

Happy New Year to Our Friends at Lakewood Manor

Council members Jessica Scott, Nicole Powell, Katya Lyzhina and Kayla Bradford visited with residents at the Lakewood Manor Nursing Facility on January 21 and wished them a happy new year with handmade cards. Shown below are Mr. and Mrs. Harrington who have been married for seventy-two years.

MLK Day - A Day on, Not a Day Off

Twenty-two council members gave up their MLK holiday to work for three hours at the Arkansas Rice Depot. They boxed the items donated at the Food For Kids food drive that Olivia Austin held in December, separated hygiene items, and worked at culling spoiled packaged food from FEMA boxes. Lots of work got done and we got a chance to say goodbye to our friend Hannah Halfhill, volunteer coordinator, who has decided to be a stay-at-home mom.

MLK Gala an Evening of Elegance

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission hosted a banquet and gala on the evening of January 11, at the Doubletree Hotel. Jason Gillard was honored with a trophy for Youth Achievement for his work in CyberFamilies with the NLR Mayor's Youth Council. The sold-out event had 700 plus in attendance and will be televised several times in the next few weeks on Fox 16, Jason's sponsor. Jason was accompanied by his grandmother, Frenchelle White, and his brother Justin, a former Council member.

New Start Something Projects Taking Off

Molly Leopard, Liz Rogers, and Zach House have taken on the "Evening
with the Arts," an auction that is held to benefit Families are Special Adoption Agency. The Perry Berns Art Galery in Dallas brings framed art for the show and auction. Council members will provide manpower for the reception and for the show. Last year's event brought in over $4000. Watch the blog for the date and place. Pictured with Zach is super-mom, Leisa House.

Swearing In Ceremony Held on January 1

The swearing in ceremony for new city officials was held in the foyer of the City Hall at 10 in the morning on January first. Mayor Patrick Henry Hays greeted new officials, their families and guests as they came for the swearing in and reception that followed. Council member Chelsea Smith led the Pledge of Allegiance and then sang the National Anthem with her friend Amber Utange.

Food Collection for the Food For Kids Program

The cold and rain didn't keep Olivia Austin's Start Something Project for the Food for Kids Program from being a success. Shifts started outside the Neighborhood WalMart Grocery at 10:00 on December 30th and lasted until after 4:00. About 2o kids and several parents stood in a cold rain and asked shoppers to buy food for hungry kids from a list that they were provided. The Food For Kids van was parked in front and the goal was to fill it with kid-friendly food for the backpacks that children take home from school each day. The project was a cooperative effort of the West Campus Beta Club and the Council. The council members will go to the Rice Depot on Martin Luther King Day, January 15, to separate the food that was collected.

Jason Gillard Honored by the MLK Commission

Jason Gillard has been selected to receive the Youth Achievement Award at the 2006-2007 MLK Salute to Greatness Community Service Awards on January 11th at the Doubletree Hotel. Jason, a junior at NLR West Campus is being recognized for his contributions to the community through the NLR Mayor's Youth Council. He is a five year member of the council and served over 1200 hours last year alone. Clear Channel is sponsoring his award and he has been interviewed for a show that will appear on Fox Channel 16 on January 9th. Jason is pictured at right on the set at Fox's Arkansas Now Program with news anchor, Donna Terrell, and with Frank Bateman, Interim Director of the MLK Commission.

Our Club Christmas Party Held December 20

The Sherman Park Our Club was the site of the Christmas Party for the Sherman Park and Silver City members. Each child had been adopted from an "angel tree" at the First Methodist Church in NLR, the home of the Butterfly Commission that partners with Our Club. Some council members had adopted kids and some helped with the party by serving food, wrapping late arriving presents, and handing out gifts. Shown here wrapping are Katy Poinsett, Rachael Dennis, Leighton Teague and Katya Lyzhina.

Group Delivers Handmade Christmas Cards to Lakewood Manor

Several members made Christmas cards for the 65 residents at the Lakewood Manor. They were delivered by Kayla Bradford and Chelsea Smith on December 17.

City Hosts Dashing Thru the Lights at Burns Park

The city hosted another successful Christmas light display at Burns Park during December and kicked it off on December 9th and 9th with a Stroll Thru the Lights, the appearance of Santa (Kyle Drake and Hayden Fischer) and Rudolph, hot chocolate and candy canes, and pictures with Santa. On the morning of December 10th members helped with the fun run. Other members who volunteered were Stephanie Davis, council "mom" Tina Bickle, Kayla Bradford, Rachael Dennis, Aaron Geary, and Skylar Howard. Members braved two of the coldest nights of the year.

December Meeting Brings Out Generosity of Members

The December meeting brought out the true spirit of Christmas as members turned in 70 family stockings for the Salvation Army's Angel Tree Program. Stockings are stuffed with items for an entire family- with videos, card games, puzzles, popcorn, candy, toys, gloves, scarves, and hygiene items. Members also brought computers for the CyberFamilies Program, more change for the Rice Depot's Food for Kids Program, stuffed animals for needy kids, snack packs for the after school program at Our Club, and videos for Kelli Golden's Films 4 Free Start Something Project. Pictured with stockings are
Mary Catherine Rogers, Daley Johnston, Liz Rogers, Blake Shuler. Sarah Wood is shown with the Food For Kids coin card, and Kelli Golden (in stage makeup for the play) is shown with a box of videos collected for her program.

Christmas Children's Fair and Symphony Kicks off Christmas

Council members hosted the Children's Fair for the Arkansas Symphony's performance at the East Campus auditorium on December 3. Around 200 attended. Kids wrote letters to Santa, had their picture made with him by Bedford Camera, made Christmas ornaments,
had a coloring contest and ate cookies and punch served by council members. Highlights in the musical program were Mayor Hays reading a Christmas story and David Itkin and the Symphony turned the baton over to Eddie Armstrong, a former graduate of NLR West Campus. Pictured with refreshments are council mom Rhonda Sylvester with her daughter Raygan and son, member Cody Styers. Other members pictured are Katya Lyzhina, Mariana, Emmanuel Hayes, Stephanie Jolly, Aaron Geary and Jason Gillard.

Council Helps Get Ready for Our House Fund Raiser

Several members of the Council spent an hour after school on November 27th at the Starting Point Day Care Center to help make tags for teddy bears that will be sold at the Tribute to Mayor Jim Dailey on December 4th. One hundred fifty 18 inch bears needed tags that had to be hand colored. Pictured are Rachael Dennis, Jason Gillard, Chelsea Smith, Ms. Scholl, Board member Heather Dethrow, Nicole Powell and an Our House resident.
Pictured at left is Our House Director, Georgia Mjarten and a little resident.

Kits for Kids

Chelsea Smith's Start Something Project, "Kits for Kids," benefits the chidren at the Our House Homeless Shelter. Chelsea enlisted the help of the other council members to create about 20 baskets for children to be given as they check into the homeless shelter. Each basket contains toys, games and personal items for the children who often have nothing when they arrive at the shelter. Our House provides a home for the working homeless and houses many children during the year.
The following is a wish list for their Starting Point Day Care Center:
3 High Chairs - 3 New High Chair Pads
Indoor Baby Swing - Baby Crib Sheets
Crib Blankets - Toddler Pillows
CDs and DVD for children and infants (Like Baby Einstein, etc.)
Kids Paint - Art Supplies
Poster Board - Book Shelves (small, child-size)
Desk (for an adult) - Vacuum cleaner
Pictured with the kits are Chelsea Smith, Jason Gillard, Rachael Dennis and Nicole Powell.

Lakewood Manor Grannies Receive Handmade Thanksgiving Cards

Members of the Council visited the residents at the Lakewood Manor Nursing Facility on November 19th and took them handmade Thanksgiving cards. Visitors were Melissa Austin, Kaley Scott, Kayla Bradford, Daley Johnston, Blake Shuler, Zach Barber, Sarah Spradlin and Jared Kittler.

The Incredibles

Three families took part in the National Family Volunteer Day on November 18, sponsored by Disney. Family volunteering can help mobilize thousands of new volunteers to meet community needs and instill a lifelong commitment to volunteering. It's a hands-on way to practice the values of kindness, compassion, tolerance, community responsibility and good citizenship. Our INCREDIBLE Families who participated were member Kevin O'Sullivan and his parents Eileen and Patrick - member Stephanie Davis and her sister Tina Bickle - member Kyly Hawk and her mom Sharon. Disney says that being an Incredible Family volunteer:
Strengthens family communication and bonds
Allows family members to be role models
Increases commitment to volunteering and community
Provides quality family time.
These volunteers made Thanksgiving boxes for about 40 families in Hot Springs.
Parents are encouraged to volunteer with members.

Work Day at Our House Homeless Shelter

On November 11, three members of the council took on the job of cleaning out a storage room that had not been opened in years at the Our House Homeless Shelter. The room yielded toys, sets of china, clothing, bedding and hygiene products. The room was being cleaned out to allow storage of the shelter's Starting Point Day Care Center's materials. Shown are Darren Muldrew, Katya Lyzhina, Ms. Scholl, and Aaron Geary. The Council provided new shelving for the storage room.

Artament Bash at Arts Center a Success

The Arkansas Arts Center held its signature Christmas event November 10-12 and council members helped by serving food and working with artists. Hand crafted and one of a kind items are sold to start the Christmas season right. Pictured are Katya Lyzhina and Anna Waller who were servers for the event.

Lisa Alley's Art Chosen for ACH Christmas Card

Arkansas Children's Hospital's
Nutcracker Honor Card
MYC member, Lisa Alley, was chosen as an artist for this year's cards for Arkansas Children's Hospital's annual fundraiser. Auxiliary co-chair Dale Cook says, “They are encouraged to draw up cards that reflect the holidays. The cards are then sold and all of the money raised from the proceeds go back into the hospital to help others." Co-chair Larcie Burnett says, “It's a lovely way to raise money for the hospital but to highlight the children and that's what really we're about it. The cards, fundraising organizers say, is great way to take care of holiday card mailing while supporting a good cause. The group says they netted $72,000 last year and are hoping to exceed that amount.The holiday cards will be sold at retail outlets throughout the state.To order cards, contact the auxiliary office at (501) 364-1259.
The copy with Lisa's card reads: Lisa Alley, Age 15 is a former patient and Star ACHiever from North Little Rock, Arkansas. This card is available for a minimum $10.00 donation per card. Message: "We Salute You! A special gift has been made on your behalf to Arkansas Children's Hospital By(Your Name and/or Business Name)" $10.00 minimum per card, tax deductible. For values greater than $50, call 501-364-1259. Order Quantity: card(s) Donation Amount: $10 $20 $30 $40 $50." Congratulations, Lisa!

Walk As One With NCCJ

Ten members walked with people of all faiths and cultures on November 5th at NCCJ's Walk as One in the River Market. The walk benefits NCCJ's youth programs such as Anytown and Unitown, programs that teach tolerance, diversity, and respect for others. Shown at the Razorback hog fountain are Kelsey Riley, Nicole Powell, Callie Wood, Kayla Bradford, Aaron Geary, Stephanie Davis, Kevin O'Sullivan, Jeremy Smith, and Katya Lyzhina. Also pictured are Alexanne Pitts from West Campus and Kyle Buchannan from Catholic.
Members painted lots of little faces, including NLR Mayor Hays' granddaughter Savannah. Isabella changed her mind... Pictured is Callie Wood with Savannah and Mayor Hays with Isabella. The clown troupe from Central High was the kids' favorite part of the day. After the walk everyone enjoyed pizza and sodas and music.

Members Host Halloween Party for Our Clubs

Council members collected candy and made treat bags for the kids in the Our Club after school programs at Sherman Park and Silver City. They also furnished prizes for games and painted faces. Lots of super costumes were donated by our friend Audrey Ramsey at Wal-Mart. Members shown in costume are Allison Pearson, Nicole Powell, Taylor Columbus, and Kelsey Riley.

Partying With the Blue Angels

Ten members worked an event sponsored by the city of NLR to honor the Blue Angels and their support group who were here for an airshow on November 4th and 5th. Council members greeted guests, showed them to the food tent, took up tickets, and showed them to the Salty Parrot, the Arkansas Queen and the Martime Museum for dinner. They were treated to supper and got to tour the USS Razorback submarine. Pictured are Shelby Underwood, Stephanie Davis, Katya Lyzhina, Dazzmin Murry, JoNece Carter, Zach House, Emmanuel Hayes, and Jeremy Smith. At bottom are Jared Kittler and Sarah Spradlin with Blue Angel pilot "Fat Daddy."

Members Complete a 900 Piece Mailing for FASI

At the November meetings, members stayed late to get an hour of service by labeling, folding and stuffing 900 pieces of mail for Families Are Special Adoption Agency. Members saved hours of time for the agency's one secretary so that their Christmas mailing will go out on time. Shown working hard are Daley Johnston, Stephanie Jolly, JoNece Carter, Shelby Underwood, Jasmine Turner, council mom Leisa House, Laura Chesser, Zach House, Aaron Geary, and in the background, Cody Styers picking up his new T-shirt.

November is Busy Month for Council

Council members Allison Pearson and Kayla Bradford are pictured signing in and signing up to work at the Angel Tree at McCain Mall. This month brings the ARTament Bash at the Arts Center, wrapping gifts for Women and Children First at the mall, National Family Volunteer Day at the Rice Depot, building a library for the children's room at the Our House homeless shelter, and family-sized stockings to be filled for the Salvation Army. Kevin O'Sullivan is shown checking out two stockings. All stockings will be due at the December meetings on the 5th or the 6th. Christmas is just around the corner!

Creepy Trail Hike At Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Twenty MYC members helped Park Ranger Linda Goza create a creepy trail hike shortly after dark on October 28th. The parts that the members played taught a lesson as well as surprised and frightened the walkers. They hid in the deep woods and represented people who were illegally dumping toxic waste, poaching and taking timber illegally, playing the part of a troll under the bridge, the voice of the trees, and operating recordings of owls, bobcats and bears. About 100 costumed hikers enjoyed the walk and the sacks of candy that were handed out at the end of the trail. Pictured are Wael Mohammed, new member and exchange student from Saudi Arabia, Mallory Grantham as Resource Racoon, Darren Muldrew (black bear), Stefani Perry candy person, and a family of friendly hikers.

Adopt a Pet Has a Good Saturday

Adopt a Pet enjoyed a successful Saturday on October 28th at Lakewood Village thanks to the beautiful weather and the help from MYC members Marshalluna Land and Ashley Pettus. They talked with visitors about adopting animals, kept the water bowls full, and helped little visitors learn how to hold the puppies. The shelter is at Lakewood Village every Friday and Saturday from 1:00 until 5:00.

Boo at the Zoo!

Council members volunteered at the 15th annual Boo at the Zoo October 19th through 31st. This event is Arkansas’ largest Halloween festival and is growing at a frightening rate! This is the time of year when ghouls and goblins come out to play, roaming the Zoo grounds. Boo features a haunted house, fortune teller, fun house, and even a beauty shop of horrors! And talking pumpkins exist there! (We know, because pumpkins R us!) About half of the council served at this favorite event. Pictured are Katya Lyzhina, fortune teller - Stephanie Davis, character for the haunted house - and Amber Turner at a treat station.

Members Take Halloween Cards to Lakewood Manor

Six council members visited the Lakewood Manor Facility to visit and distribute homemade Halloween cards to residents. Pictured with residents are Daley Johnston, Kayla Bradford, Zach Barber, and Sarah Spradlin.Not pictured are Katya Lyzhina and Jared Kitler.

Films For Free Launched

Kelli Golden, member of the NLR Mayor's Youth Council and senior at NLR West Campus, has launched her "Start Something Project" called Films-4-Free. She has collected over 200 videos that are appropriate for children up to age 15 and is distributing them to area emergency rooms, to Our House Homeless Shelter, to Heaven's Loft in NLR, to the Open Arms Shelter in Searcy, and to after school programs. If you would like to make a donation to this program - films, a tv or a VCR machine - please call 834-3784. Kelli is shown at top with Georgia Mjarten, Our House Director and the staff of the Day Care Center. At bottom is the volunteer staff at Heaven's Loft.
www.ourhouseshelter.org
http://www.jlnlr.org/heaven

Radio Disney Spotlights CyberFamilies

Jason Gillard's project Cyberfamilies has gained statewide attention. He was interviewed at Radio Disney on October fifth about this program that partners DHS, Families are Special Adoption Agency, NLRMYC and the community. Cyberfamilies places rebuilt computers in the homes of foster children and kids being raised by grandparents. He talked with radio host "Sunny" about the Mayor's Youth Council's service in the community and about the need for these computers. Foster children are often behind in their school work, and not having a computer to do classwork makes an already difficult situation even harder. Kids "age out" of the system at age 18 and unless they have job skills their future is unsure. Many end up jobless, homeless and incarcerated. DHS choses the family, FASI provides the rebuilt computer and teaches the child how to use it if needed. To donate a computer, call FASI at 758-9184. The interview with Jason can be heard on October 15 from 6:30 to 7:00 a.m.

October Meetings Bring Announcement of New Start Something Projects

The Council's October meetings saw four new Start Something Projects kicked off. Kelli Golden's "Films for Free" will place videos in Children's Hospital, Open Arms Shelter and Our House homeless shelter. Chelsea Smith and Taylor Colombus will work with Our House to provide "Kits for Kids," age-appropriate kits of books, toys, and activity books for the kids to have when they arrive at Our House. Katya Lyzhina will partner with the Rice Depot to collect food for the Food for Kids program. Zach Barber's goal is to fill the Ark for Heifer International. Pictured are Zach, Taylor and Chelsea. Molly Leopard shows off the coin collection boxes that are furnished by Heifer.

Rice Depot Salutes The Council With a Party

The Arkansas Rice Depot honored the council with an appreciation back to school party on September 30. Twenty members worked for an hour and a half and then ate lunch with the Depot staff. Director Laura Rhea explained the Rice Depot's commitment to the community and thanked the council for their continuing participation in the Food for Kids program. Food for Kids provides a nutritious meal of kid-friendly food for children to take home from school in a backpack every day. The council raised $1500 for this program last year with coin cards and a bake sale. Volunteer outreach coordinator Hannah Halfhill gave members a tour of the Depot's new facility. Council members who volunteered are new members Marquey West, Casey Masters, Melissa Austin, Daley Johnston, Kaley Scott, Birk McClain, Stephanie Jolly, Zach House, Jeremy Smith, Katy Poinsett, Leighton Teague, Emma Hurtado - and returning members Katya Lyzhina, Amber Turner, Kyly Hawk, and Jason Gillard. Pictured are staff members Laura Rhea(top) and Hannah Halfhill.
www.RiceDepot.org

Volunteers at the Race Space for the Race For the Cure

Nine volunteers from the MYC volunteered at the Race Space, the clerical branch of the Race for the Cure. The Race Space is open for two weeks before race day, and volunteer opportunities include folding and bagging t-shirts, registering participants, data entry, distributing packets for pick up and selling in the boutique. The office was doing a brisk business on September 24th and 25th when council members helped out. Pictured are JoNece Carter, Dazzmin Murry, Shelby Underwood, Katya Lyzhina, Fabien Pythoud, and Director Jan Scholl. Not pictured from the Sunday crew is photographer Jason Gillard. Monday volunteers were Christi Ezzi, Samantha Smith, Leighton Teague, and Katy Poinsett. Saturday, October 7 will be the 13th Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure in Little Rock. 40,000 runners and three miles of men are expected on race day. Volunteer opportunities are still open for that day.

Arthritis Walk Held at North Shore Riverwalk

On September 23 council members provided volunteer support for the Arthritis Walk. Members were prepared to face paint, but threatening thunderstorms caused a small turn out for the event. Walkers who had their dogs with them learned that arthritis affects pets as often as it does people. A doctor was on hand to answer questions for those who suffer from this disease that strikes millions of Americans. Instead of face painting, members helped with set up and break down and walked the mile with the participants. Volunteers shown are Fabien Pythoud, Darren Muldrew, Alyssa Becton, Katya Lyzhina, Callie Wood, and Stephanie Davis. Darren definitely does not have arthritis!

Bar-B-Que Bash a Success!

The Bar-B-Que Bash was held at the East Campus Cafeteria on September 19. Over 100 enjoyed BBQ from Pig-N-Chik, Lindsey's, Jo Jo's, The White Pig Inn, Corkey's and Golden Corral. Food was served by MYC members who also bussed tables and monitored the auctions. Tables were set up with information on adoption from Families Are Special and the DHHS, the Food For Kids at the Arkansas Rice Depot, Hope's Miracle, and CyberFamilies. The crowd participated in a silent auction that included gift coupons to area restaurants, an ATV accessory kit, fishing gear, a microwave, gift baskets and much more. 145 dolls offered for "adoption" were table toppers. There was a celebrity doll auction with dolls made by city employees, non-profits who work with the MYC, and local celebrities. One doll was made by Carter Church, a Mississippi artist who came to Arkansas for Hearts for Art in March. He is known for creating elaborate Mardi Gras costumes for the queens who ride the floats. He is the winner of over 130 Abbey Awards for Design. He also sent a sketch of his design to be auctioned. The designer doll bid was won by the O'Sullivan Family. The sketch was purchased for Claire Haun, a volunteer who worked many hours to help make the Bash a success. The successful event was the project of West Campus junior, Jason Gillard. Proceeds benefit the CyberFamilies Program that places rebuilt computers in the homes of foster children or kids being raised by their grandparents. To donate a computer call FASI at 758-9184.
Shown below is new member, Fabien Pythoud, an exchange student from Switzerland.

THEA Paves the Way Brings Out the Artists in the Council

On September 16 Council members gathered with hundred of other would be artists to draw chalk art on the sidewalk squares at the Clinton Library. Eight designers worked on the council's square while other members painted faces for the kids who attended. Shown face painting is Kelli Golden. The THEA Foundation, the event's sponsor, organized the morning's fun to help raise money for scholarships for young artists. Several area artists set up easels and painted in plein aire so that participants could watch a real artist at work. One unusual artist was a three-year-old girl who already has a portfolio. Members shown doing chalk art are Jasmine Shepard, Jason Gillard, Shelby Underwood, Dazzmin Murry, Katya Lyzhina, Kevin O'Sullivan and Darren Muldrew.

Face Painting for the Alzheimer's Walk at the Zoo

Council members got up early on Saturday, September 16 to paint faces at the zoo for the Walk to Remember. Shown are Kelsey Riley, Shelby Underwood, Allison Pearson and Darren Muldrew.

Council Member Gets TV Time for BBQ Bash

Jason Gillard appeared on Channels 7 and 11 to advertise his Start Something Project, the Second Annual BBQ Bash. Channel 7's Christina Munoz participated in the "Be A Doll" program, making a likeness of herself for the live auction (shown in the pink sweater at right). Jason and Ms. Scholl appeared on the morning show with Melinda Mayo and Jason Peterson on September 12. On the 15th they were guests on the morning show on Channel 11 with Robyn Richardson who showed her doll that she and her daughter Olivia created and named Olivia Oakley. Weatherman Ed Buckner and his daughter Megan created a doll to represent him. Jason talked about the CyberFamilies program and the silent and live auctions for the BBQ.

Juvenile Diabetes Walk Passes Thru NLR

Council members manned water stations for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Walk on September 9. Hundreds of walkers crossed the bridge between the cities. Pictured here are Stephanie Davis, Kyly Hawk, Jason Gillard, Amber Turner, Director Jan Scholl and one of NLR's finest.

School Supplies and Snack Packs for Our Club

At the first meeting Council members brought hundreds of dollars worth of school supplies and backpacks for the Silver City and Sherman Park Our Clubs. Snack pack deliveries have already been made twice to Silver City. Our Club members have a nutritious snack before going home in the evening. Snack packs prepared by council members contain a protein item, a carboyhdrate, fruit, a dessert and a juice pack. Shown are an Our Club member with part of the school supplies and council members and club members with Director Leifel Jackson.

"Counting Our Blessings" Day for Katrina Survivors

On August 30th the twin cities held a celebration of the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. An information fair was held for the 300 atendees before the evening's program, and non-profits were on hand to pass on information to help speed the recovery for families affected by the storm. A New Orleans style band played while kids enjoyed free popcicles, art projects, face painting by the NLRMYC, and seeing a lizard from the Museum of Discovery. Mayor Hays and Mayor Dailey spoke at the evening's program and were presented proclamations of appreciation from Ray Nagin, Mayor of New Orleans. The program included remarks by Claire Haun of Mississippi and Yvette Martin of Louisiana, both who lost everything in the storm. Local volunteers Carol Langston and Jamie Deere also spoke. Volunteers who participated in the immediate and long-term recovery were recognized. The choir from Main St. Baptist in NLR sang and Rev. Steve Copley of the NLR First United Methodist Church and Antoine Scruggs from Promised Land Church spoke. Pictured are MYC member Aaron Geary with a museum docent and her lizard, new MYC member Kayla Bradford painting a face, and Mayors Hays and Dailey on stage.

Council Serves at Twister Year End Banquet

Eight members of the Council helped with the year-end banquet for the Arkansas Twisters' Arena Football Team. Servers were Evan Nally, Jonathan Pounders, Birk McClain, Kyly Hawk, Jason Gillard, Stephanie Davis, Darren Muldrew and council "mom" Tina Bickell. Members were treated to dinner and got to meet all the players, Sirens dance team members and Coach Gregory. The group is pictured with our friend Todd Wright, Marketing Executive for the Team.

September 19th Date Set for Bar-B-Que Bash

The second annual Bar-B-Que Bash date has been set for September 19th. It will be held again at the NLR High School East Cafeteria at 6:00. Bar-B-Que will be donated by Pig-n-Chik, Lindsey's, Golden Corral, Corkey's, Jo Jo's and Dixie Pig. Paper products will be donated by WalMart. Tickets will be a $20 donation. A silent auction will be held and hand decorated rag dolls will be available for "adoption" for $10. There will be a live auction of celebrity dolls. Some of the celebrities who have agreed to create dolls are Mayor Hays (two - one for each granddaughter), Fire Chief McCall, Chief of Police Danny Bradley, Director of the Boys and Girls Club Mike Neuhofl, and Robin Richardson and Ed Buckner of Channel 11. Carter Church, a Mississippi artist whose work was shown at the Clinton Library at the Hearts for Art art show last March, has agreed to create a doll. He is well known for creating extravagant costumes for Mardi Gras. Council members and other friends in the community are also making dolls to adopt. Pictured are members at a work night at the community center when they picked up their dolls, and Claire Haun and Jason Gillard. The event is Jason's Start Something Project that benefits CyberFamilies, a program that places rebuilt computers in the homes of foster children and kids being raised ovby their grandparents. Last year's event raised over $4500. Fifty-five computers were placed last year in the CyberFamilies program.

Council Serves National Guard Brass at Military Ball

Nineteen council members learned how to serve an elegant dinner for the military ball at Militia Hall on Camp Robinson on Saturday, August 12. After a Friday tutorial by James Staats of the Golden Corral Restaurant, the group felt confident to serve. Servers included Chelsea Smith, Allison Pearson, Mallory Grantham, Emmanuel Hayes, Jason Gillard, Katya Lyzhina, Birk McClain, Amber Turner, Kelsey Riley, Angela Metcalf, Rachel Dennis, and new members Carlton Hardin, JoNece Carter, Katie Weatherford, Jeremy Smith, Shelby Underwood, Camden Riley and Eric Dailey. Golden Corral will compensate members with a free ticket each for the buffet at their restaurant and a free year-end banquet. Shown are Mr. Staats and a Guardsman filling in members on their serving duties.

East Washington Community Center Dream Big Arts Fest a Success

Council members participated in the East Washinton Community Center's Youth Arts Festival on August 12. Face painters included Katya Lyzhina, Birk McClain (shown here doing the "Electric Slide," and Jason Gillard. The day included free drinks and hot dogs cooked by Superintendent Ken Kirspel and principals Lee Tackett and Charlie Jones. Entertainment included painting the board fence, poetry, music with a live d.j. from Power 92, Shakspearean insults, crafts, and dancing. Other community groups that cooperated were the drama and art departments from NLR schools, the THEA Foundation, Little Rock Parkview, NLR Youth Services, NLR Health Department, NLR Fire and Police Departments, Comcast and Neighborhood Services. Shown are new member Eric Dailey, drama student Anna Waller, and Superindent Ken Kirspel and Lee Tackett.

Civitan Club Hosts MYC Speakers

The Little Rock Civitan Club hosted three MYC members on August 10. Katya Lyzhina and Jason Gillard were invited to talk about the NLR Mayor's Youth Council and their Start Something projects. Both their projects are cooperative efforts with the DHS to provide services to the state's foster program. Katya's project, Baggage Claim, provides bags and backpacks to children in foster care. Jason's project, CyberFamilies, provides rebuilt computers to children in foster care or to kids being raised by their grandparents. Also attending was council member Birk McClain. The Civitan Club works with the community to fulfill the needs of the community and places special emphasis on working with people with developmental disabilities. They are known for their work with Special Olympics and for other commitments to youth. Pictured are Civitan member D.J. Adams with council Director, Jan Scholl and Katya Lyzhina - Birk McClain and Jason Gillard.

Member Attends Anytown to Represent MYC

Katya Lyzhina is pictured with others teens from across Arkansas as she checks in with Annette Fry of NCCJ. As the winner of the Jim Gray Leadership Award, Katya received a scholarship for Anytown. Due to budget constraints, no council members were sent for the first time in six years. Anytown is the signature teen program of NCCJ. It is for kids in grades 10-12 and it's a week-long residential camp that's held at Ferncliff in Little Rock. People who attend are a mix of religions, races and cultures. The theme each year is tolerance and diversity - heavy on acceptance, understanding and respect. Anytown has long been the favorite activity of Council members. The program runs July 30 through August 5.

Twisters Win Last Home Game

Eighteen council members enjoyed the last home game for the Twisters Arena Football Team on Saturday, July 29. The Twisters beat the Macon Knights and will continue to the playoffs. Stephanie Davis won the drawing for the team ball that was signed by all the players. Pictured with Stephanie is Darren Muldrew.

No. Heights Community Center Opens Refurbished Pool

The North Heights Community Center held its grand opening of their refurbished pool from noon to three on Saturday, July 29. Many neighborhood kids used the pool to cool off in the 100 plus heat. Council members Birk McClain, Katya Lyzhina and new member Jasmine Sheppard supported the event by face painting.

CBS Early Show Visits Little Rock

The CBS Early Show visited the metropolitan area on July 28 as one of 20 favorite vacation destinations. The Council was invited to be in the crowd of onlookers and greeters as the show was taped. Members arrived at 5:00 in the morning in a steady downpour to experience their five seconds of fame. Local tv celebrities led the hog call, showed off huge watermelons, and local bar-b-que. Many local groups and non-profits were also invited to showcase their programs. Council members attending were Jason Gillard, Evan Nally, Darren Muldrew, Birk McClain and Katya Lyzhina. Heifer International will be the beneficiary of Council's first Start Something Project of the year. Zach Barber will undertake filling the Ark for his project.

Council Selected "Volunteer of the Week" by United Way's Volunteer Center

Jo Lynn Short, Volunteer Center Director with the United Way announced that the NLRMYC has been selected as the "Volunteers of the Week" for the week of July 31st. The council will receive a plaque, courtesy of Discount Trophies and will be listed on the United Way web page at www.uwpulaski.org . KSSN 96FM will announce the council as the winner of the award between 11:00 and 12:00 on Monday, July 31st. The nominator for the honor was Hannah Halfhill, Outreach Coordinator with the Arkansas Rice Depot. In her nomination, Hannah said, "This group is full of young, dedicated, and creative students. The Youth Council is tireless in their work and faithful in their commitment to the Rice Depot. The Rice Depot can count on the Youth Council's presence to assist with volunteer projects. Their work is always done well. Their service is greatly appreciated and valuable to the continuation of the Rice Depot's programs." Above is Krystal Billups with a box of rice mixes that are sold in the agency's gift shop. At left is Bridgitte George and Yensi Vasquez. Below is Callie Wood. The council's favorite activity is working in the basket room and making mixes and baskets for the gift shop.

Ashley Group Makes Computer Donation

The Ashley Group in NLR donated computers, monitors, keyboards and software to CyberFamilies, Jason Gillard's Start Something Project. CyberFamilies works in cooperation with Families Are Special Adoption Agency and DHS to provide computers to kids who are in foster care or who are being raised by grandparents. In the past year fifty-five computers have been placed in homes. The family can come to FASI for computer skills tutoring, and the refurbished computers are kept up to speed by the FASI volunteers. On September 19th Jason will hold the Second Annual Bar-B-Que Bash at the East Campus Cafeteria at 6:00. Tickets are a $20 donation. Restaurants donating food will be Corkey's, Pig-N-Chik, Jo Jo's, Lindsey's, Golden Corral, and Dixie Pig. There will be a silent auction and hand-made rag dolls will be available for "adoption" for $10. This year there will be celebrity dolls for adoption from area VIPs. Last year's BBQ brought in over $4500 for the program. Shown with Jason is Anita Martin, an employee of the Ashley Group. Anyone can donate a used computer. A volunteer will clean the hard drive and get it ready for its new owner. To donate, call Jan Scholl at 834-3784.

March of Dimes Bikers for Babies at the Twister Game

Council members helped the Twisters bring home a win over the Tulsa Talons on July 22. Members handed out bobble head dolls of Coach Gregory to the first 1000 fans. They helped the March of Dimes with photos of fans on the cycles and supervised kids on the bouncer. Stephanie Davis got to wear the "official" MYC Twister shirt. Shown above are council "mom" Tina Bickel, Katya Lyzhina, "Biker Babe" Ms. Scholl, Jason Gillard, Kevin O'Sullivan, Stephanie Davis, and March of Dimes Director of Program Services, Julie Hendrix. The team jersey was a gift to the council from the Twisters. At right is Darren Muldrew with a bobble head. Others who volunteered but aren't shown are Evan Nally and Emmanuel Hayes.

We're Back!

Six volunteers from the council worked for a second Friday at the American Cancer Society stuffing and labeling 1000 envelopes, looking up zip codes, and sorting and folding t-shirts. Employees at the facility furnished sodas and pizza. Shown working are Chris and Sarah Wood, Birk McClain, Jason Gillard and Katya Lyzhina.

KaBOOM! It's a Playground!

Three council members provided childcare for the Our House Day Care Center and helped to serve lunch to the 200 volunteers who built a playground in six hours on Saturday, July 20. Our House—the shelter, training center and free daycare for homeless children and families—received a generous grant from PepsiCo to build a KaBOOM! playground on their campus! The children who live at Our House are very excited! The playground was built “barn-raising style” with corporate teams on one of the hottest days of the year. Spirits were lifted by a DJ with music live remote from B98.5, and breakfast and lunch provided by Pepsi and Black Angus. Volunteers worked and had fun together and met members of the Arkansas Twisters football team and other local celebrities. Additional support was provided by City Year and Children's Hospital. Members pictured in the serving line with Our House Director, Georgia Mjarten, are Birk McClain, Kevin O'Sullivan and Jason Gillard. Our House Day Care Center kids were entertained by the drawings by Keith Petersen of The Church at Rock Creek and by making sun visors. Council member Kevin O'Sullivan donated art supplies to the day care.

Jeremiah Dennis Wins Scholarship to UA

Modern Woodmen has awarded council member Jeremiah Dennis an $8000 scholarship to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. Jeremiah graduated from CAC and plans to major in business. He is a two-year member of the council.

Cancer Society Calls on Council for Help

On July 14 eight council members helped label 3500 envelopes for the Arkansas Chapter of the American Cancer Society's invitations for their Legends Ball Fundraiser. They also stuffed over 1000 envelopes for county chapters. The non-profit repaid their efforts with a pizza lunch. At the recent Relay for Life in North Little Rock, $1000 was donated in honor of the council. Pictured above are Abby DeLoach, Jason Gillard and Yensi Vasquez.
Pictured at right are Katya Lyzhina and Birk McClain. At left is Amanda Alls.

Members Build Library for the Perfecting Life Learning Center

Council members have again collected several thousand books to build libraries for after school programs and community centers. The first to be started this summer is at the Perfecting Life Learning Center at 1224 Franklin in NLR. The church has a summer learning program that is for pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. Over 100 kids have been involved in the summer program. Council members Jason Gillard and Katya Lyzhina delivered books and board games to Youth Minister Derrick Brooks. Some of the books and games were donated by the Arkansas Rice Depot.
The books are being stored until bookshelves can be built or donated items can be found. Pictured are some of the program's elementary age children. Pictured with Katya and Jason are Elder Terrell Carleton and Youth Director Derrick Brooks of Perfecting Life.

Super Night at the Ballgame!

Ten Council members enjoyed a free night at the Twisters game (even though the Twisters lost to Spokane). Members handed out free Superman t-shirts to the first 1000 kids through the doors and helped man the bounce station and photos with Superman. Members had a chance to get up close and personal with the super-hero himself. Pictured are Birk McClain, Ms. Scholl, Katya Lyzhina, and Kevin O'Sullivan.
Members posing for the last shot are Kevin, Jason Gillard, Kyrah Brown, Emmanuel Hayes, Ms. Scholl, Birk, and super-hero inspired Darren Muldrew.

Coulson Family Honors Council Volunteers

Twelve MYC members were honored with an evening pizza and swim party at the home of Beth and Mike Coulson in Little Rock. Pictured in the water are Darren Muldrew, Emmanuel Hayes, Jason Gillard and Yensi Vasquez.
Beth Coulson hosted a recent fundraiser for the Our House Shelter, and Council members provided volunteer support. The Coulsons often allow their favorite non-profits to use their home for fundraising efforts.
Pictured below on the walkway between the pools is Rachel Dennis.

Council Member's Art Wins Scholarship

Council member Kristin Davis has been awarded $17,500 in scholarship funds by the THEA Foundation. She will be attending UALR and majoring in pharmacy. Kristin is pictured with her winning acrylic entry called "Small Things."
Kristin said, "Winning this scholarship is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me....I had no idea the financial pressure that college could exert on an entire family. This scholarship was the light at the end of a long tunnel. Mr. Leopoulos, his family, and all of the people who donate money to the foundation are true heroes. They have unknowingly saved my dreams and given me hope for the very near future."
The THEA Foundation was founded in memory of NLR High School student, Thea Leopoulis. The mission of the THEA Foundation is to advocate the importance of art in the development of our youth through educational and promotional activities and to encourage individual participation in art through scholarship, partnership, and other programs.

Council on the Radar

Council members had another night of fun at the arena football game on June 17 when they played Rio Grande Valley. Twisters won 41-38. Members manned the blow up bouncer and handed out programs and Twister towels. Pictured with Radar, the Twisters' mascot, are Katya Lyzhina, Kyly Hawk, Darren Muldrew, Tatjana Barsukov and Stephanie Davis. Pictured below are new member Birk McClain and Kyly.

Council Members Volunteer for Our House Fundraiser

On June 10th ten members of the Council furnished manpower to help make the "Dinner on the Grounds" a success as a fundraiser for Our House homeless shelter. About 300 guests enjoyed the river view, the waterfalls and flowers at the Little Rock home of Beth Coulson, Our House Board member. Eight local restaurants furnished soul food like turnip greens and black-eyed peas, and a band played live music. The cost of a ticket, $38.75, can feed a homeless family of four for a week. Council members handed out fans decorated by Our House children and helped with food service. Over $20,000 was raised at the event. Pictured in the group are Emmanuel Hayes, Kevin O'Sullivan, Darren Muldrew, Beth Coulson, Jan Scholl (also an Our House Board member), Georgia Mjartan (Our House Executive Director), Tatjana Barsukov, Amanda Alls, Kristin Davis, Katya Lyzhina, and Rachel Dennis. Pictured below are Darrne Muldrew and Amanda Alls with the children's fans and Kristin Davis.

Twisters Furnish Summer Fun

June third was Fun and Family Night at the Twisters game. Fifteen members enjoyed a free night of fun and helped kids have their pictures made with the Veggie Tales guys, handed out "twister poppers" and programs. Pictured are Tatjana Barsukov with the veggies, Cody Grace and Jonathan Pounders with programs, and Jason Gillard with the poppers. The Twisters played the Bossier City Battlewings and won 55 to 29!

MYC Speakers at Sertoma Club

Council members Tatjana Barsukov and Katya Lyzhina were lunch meeting speakers for the NLR Sertoma Club on May 31. Tatjana talked to members about her Start Something Program called "Kid Talk" - a program designed to help prepare parents communicate in Russian with children that they are adopting from Russia.
Katya updated the club on "Baggage Claim" and told them that she has now collected over 1600 bags for foster children, and thanked them for their help in the collection. They surprised her by presenting her with a plaque naming her the Regional Winner of the Service to Mankind Award.

NLRMYC Ends Year With $16,000 In Scholarship Presentations

The Council ended its year with a banquet for members and their guests at the Hays Center on May 25. Scholarships totaling $16,000 were presented to twelve members: Presidential Freedom Scholarships were presented to Lauren Hudson of Parkview, Jennifer Daniel of Mount St. Mary, Lara Alley of CAC, Krystal Billups and Bridgitte George, West. NLR School District Scholarships were presented to Jessica Jenkins, Shelley Davis, Samantha Ruble, Amanda Alls, and Cameron Lively, all of West Campus. Dan and Cheri Rolett (pictured with members) presented the Jim Wetherington Memorial Scholarship to Kyrah Brown. Kelli Golden, a junior at West Campus was given a City Club Scholarship. Mayor Hays was on hand to greet guests. Darren Muldrew and Kevin Webb presented the Non-Profit of the Year Award to Hannah Halfhill, Outreach Coordinator at the Arkansas Rice Depot. Six members were honored with plaques for their outstanding Start Something Projects: Katya Lyzhina for Baggage Claim, Lara Alley for the Great American Bake Sale, Jason Gillard for Cyber Families, Jessica Jenkins for An Evening With the Arts, Tatjana Barsukov for Kid Talk, and Angela Metcalf for the Amboy Food Pantry. Forty-three members have served over 100 hours. Katya Lyzhina and Jason Gillard have served over 1000 hours. Jason was selected as this year's Volunteer of the Year.