By BARBARA
BARBIERI
“Scattering Seeds of Kindness” was the theme for the Wells County Extension Homemaker’s 101st annual spring festival held last week at the 4-H Community Center.
The evening got underway with the Wells County Chorus, under the leadership of Lori Wilson, singing four selections. “Will the Cricle Be Unbroken” was sung in memory of chorus member Joy Hahn, as she had so enjoyed singing it. Shara Kuhns was soloist for one selection.
President Mary Ann Ripperger welcomed the ladies to the evening and led them in the pledge to the flag. Carol Baker offered an inspirational message using the importance of mothers as the theme.
The evening’s meal catered by Corner Depot Catering was served by the members of the JT-5 Club.
President Ripperger recognized 50 year members Sharon Jump and Carol Baker and members of the choral club gave a memorial tribute to deceased members: Lynnette Jones, Tressie Stair, Joy Hahn and Thelma Yager.
Carol Meeks, who was Homemaker of the year in 2022, announced that Homemaker of the Year 2023 was Jean Reef. Reef’s family surprised her as the announcement was made.
The county’s 2022-2023 officers were recognized by President Ripperger and included: President-elect Charolett Gehring, Secretary Linda Huseman, Treasurer Jean Reef and Advisor Cindy Zook.
Cultural Arts honors were awarded to Kay Southard for her “Fairy Garden” planter and Karen Flatterer’s cross stitch greeting cards. Both projects will be taken to the coming state gathering.
Decorations were provided by the ODO Club, door prizes by the UYB Club and programs by the Jefferson Club.
Ripperger gave the concluding comments for the evening as she summarized the projects the ladies had participated in over the year and lead them in the Extension Homemakers Creed.
The event was held Tuesday evening.
barb@news-banner.com
