INDUSTRY – The Franklin County Extension Homemakers met for the annual spring meeting on May 10 at the Industry Town Hall, with approximately 60 members and guests present.

A business meeting and the election of county officers for 2008 were held. The following officers were elected: Glennese Taylor and Anne Moody, co-secretaries, and Caroline Mayo, treasurer. Last year Pat Starbird was elected president and Lois King, vice president.

Training suggestions for 2008 were chosen. The trainings to be offered to the county include “Hawaii,” “Backyard Habitat,” “Simplify Your Life” and “Placemat Crafts.”

Following the business meeting, a dinner of salads, rolls and desserts was hosted, organized and prepared by the Clearwater Homemakers with assistance from the Weld Homemakers.

A special poster and examples of “Blankies from the Heart,” small lap quilts, were on display. Fifteen University of Maine Cooperative Extension Homemakers met on April 23 to stitch the “blankies” for Alzheimer patients in the community. Fabric, batting, trims and embellishments were donated for the project.

The Smith Brothers (Shane and Jay) provided the entertainment with a musical program of fiddle and guitar playing.

The Maine Extension Homemakers Council of Franklin County is affiliated with the Maine Extension Homemakers Council, a volunteer-based organization, whose purpose is to “develop leadership and promote Cooperative Extension’s educational programs in all parts of Maine.” It is affiliated with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, which is the major outreach unit of the University of Maine, Maine’s land grant institution.

During 2006, the Franklin County Extension Homemakers provided nearly 7,000 hours of volunteer time and nearly $10,000 in donations to local organizations.

There are homemakers groups from Clearwater, East Wilton, Kingfield, Farmington, North Chesterville, Salem, Strong, Weld and Wilton, with more than 150 members.

For more information on the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Homemaker Program, contact Donna Bucher, nutrition education professional, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Franklin County Office, 147 Farmington Falls Road 2, Farmington, ME 04938, 778-4650 or 1-800-287-1478.