The Friends and Neighbors Extension Homemakers Club of Jackson County met Nov. 29 at the home of Ruth Bateman for its customary November/December combination meeting. Due to the busy season, the group began having the combined holidays meeting several years ago.

After 14 members enjoyed a pitch-in lunch, President Ruby Niccum led the group in the pledge to the American flag and the club creed to formally open the meeting.

Shirley Sears led in singing “Jingle Bells” after providing each member with jingly bells for sound effects.

Helen Lutes brought a devotional thought about responding to God’s nudges.

Roll call was answered with the December meeting suggestion, “How many Christmas gatherings will you be attending?” That was done by Bateman, the club’s secretary, who then read the minutes of the last meeting.

Niccum reported on the success of the countywide bake sale that was conducted to raise funds for the scholarship to be given to a high school graduate in the spring. She said she enjoyed working an hour and a half at the table at the Immanuel Lutheran bazaar and thanked those contributing items to sell.

The club was well represented at the countywide Fall Fling gathering earlier in the month.

Louise Cox talked about a 4,100-panel array of solar panels visible from Interstate 65 near Scott County. They were installed by Jackson County REMC in cooperation with Scott County. Another such cluster is visible along Interstate 64. Cox’s son, Mark McKinney, is the manager of Jackson County REMC. Discussion followed about renewable energy and what innovations are going on around us.

Rhonda Kidwell, community service chairwoman, encouraged members to keep track of hours given to various service organizations as well as funds donated. It was noted that the day of the club’s meeting was publicly declared as Giving Tuesday.

Kidwell also presented the lesson on improving your balance. She reviewed a handout that pointed out why it is important and directions for improving balance. She also demonstrated the moves and shared how yoga personally benefited her.

Niccum shared a Purdue University handout entitled “Communication is Key” that was expanded upon at a recent district meeting.

Members attending were Donna Abner, Bateman, Carol Bobb, Judy Carter, Cox, Joann Davidson, Kidwell, Charlotte Lovegrove, Lutes, Martha McIntire, Niccum, Vera Robbins, Sears and Ann Ulmer.