The Jefferson Homemakers met recently at the Ossian branch of the Wells County Public Library. The club’s roll call was answered by 11 members answering two questions: Have you ever kept a New Year’s resolution? And, do you have a special New Year’s tradition?
The puzzle of the month, presented by Mary Ann Ripperger, was the question “What is Hoppin’ John?” Sharon Jump answered the question, that it is a southern stew. Ripperger then read about the stew.
The Health and Safety lesson was given by Jump, who told about the four things we don’t know about fruitcake. The main thing is that if it is placed in an airtight container it can last up to 25 years.
The club had gathered items for the residents of Logansport State Hospital, and a thank you note was read from the facility.
Discussion was held on the combined Jefferson Club/Red Hats Christmas Party and all agreed that they liked this arrangement.
In other business:
• The group decided to pay $25 for a yearly membership to support the Riley Hospital for Children.
• With Random Acts of Kindness Week coming up Feb. 14-20, club members decided to make hearts that the state project suggested and pass them out to those less fortunate. The club will have a workday the morning of Jan. 26 at the home of Carol Baker to make the hearts.
• Cindy Jester and Judy Schindler will be the nominating committee for getting new officers for our club for the 2023-24 year which starts in July.
• The membership list for the county was passed around for all to critque their information and check to make sure it is accurate.
• Molly Hoag will be giving several lessons at the 4-H Park this spring, including one on food allergies at 3 p.m. April 25 and one on insta-pot use at 6 p.m. May 11. Guests are welcome.
• A “Fairy Garden” (succulent plants, small people, a bridge, and flowers planted in dirt) is the special project for Cultural Arts.
• Club members have been asked to bring regular size boxes of cereal for the backpack program to their February meeting.
• Anyone who wishes to attend the Home & Family Conference for the first time may pick up an application at the Extension Office and submit it to the office by March l5.
• Mary Ann gave a lesson on light bulbs. Many questions were asked and the correct and most feasible bulbs being made are the LED lights that take much less energy, last longer, but cost more — but, in the long run, they are more economical.
The next meeting will take place Feb. 8 with Margie Russ and Martha Harris serving as hostesses.
