Friends and Neighbors Extension Homemakers Club gathered recently at the home of Helen Lutes.
Donna Abner opened with the pledge to the flag, followed by the club creed. Each told their favorite place to view the falling leaves for roll call. Surprisingly, most answered with “in their own backyard.”
Donna Patterson led the group in singing “Autumn Leaves,” followed by Martha McIntire sharing a devotional on how we look at others, “Do we see their need or just their appearance?”
Rhonda Kidwell reported on the countywide bake sale, which was Nov. 7 in the Immanuel Lutheran School gym. Money from the sale will be used to provide a scholarship to a Jackson County high school senior who has chosen to study for a career in the health and human sciences field, home economics education, etc.
Notes from 4-H members were recognized thanking the club for support during fair time.
Ruby Niccum shared information about Riley Hospital for Children. It opened in 1924 starting as a tuberculosis and polio hospital by five of James Whitcomb Riley’s friends in his honor. Today, the Riley Children’s Foundation covers Camp Riley for physically handicapped and the James Whitcomb Riley’s Museum home.
The new Riley Hospital for Children inpatient facility covers nine floors, all private rooms. They have a large burn center and do transplants. Several of the club members shared stories about benefiting from Riley Hospital over the years.
Judy Carter gave tips and tricks on how to preserve fall harvest foods to enjoy all year long. She said all types of fall produce like to be kept in a cool environment, and many need cool, dry and dark places. She recommended buying produce from a local farm or market, which will be fresher, save you money and support local agriculture.
Carter also explained about the Little Free Libraries popping up all over town. They look like large birdhouses on a short pole. If you open the door, you will find books inside for all ages and are free for you to take home and read. You are asked to return the book or share another book in its place for others to read.
The Wednesday Volunteer Group at Southern Indiana Center for the Arts was asked to paint some of the libraries, which are being placed around Seymour in neighborhoods where there is foot traffic. They are placed in easy access to anyone who would like a book. The program is in many other towns and states.
The extension countywide Fall Fling will be Nov. 20 at St. Paul Lutheran Church at Borchers, beginning with registration at 6 p.m. Guests are to bring a covered dish. Drinks and table service will be provided.
Artist Kevin Greene will present “Picture Jackson County.” Members are asked to donate canned goods and paper products for the local food pantries.