GFWC-AFWC Book Lovers Club had its first meeting of the year at the home of Michelle Sibley with Brenda Oliver serving as co-hostess. Club members enjoyed a seated dinner, which gave them an opportunity to share their holiday activities.

A silent auction was held to raise money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Hats and mittens were also collected from members to give to children for the winter.

President Cheri McCain called the meeting to order and introduced guest speaker Suzanne Hamlin, tourism director for Colbert County, who spoke on the many tourism events – festivals, concerts, symphony orchestras, musicals, plays, artistic exhibits – planned in the area for this year. She also discussed the Alabama Tourism Slogan, “Alabama Makers.”  The state tourism department will spotlight things made in Alabama. Brochures, pamphlets and magazines were given to each member. To wrap up her presentation, door prizes were given.

The inspiration was presented by Lela Ray. Gayle McAlister presented the institute on becoming a Road Scholar. McCain expressed appreciation to the members for their work on the very successful Christmas Tour of Homes. Letters of appreciation for Book Lovers donations were received from United Through Reading, Sew Much Comfort and Meals on Wheels.

McCain addressed the GFWC Campaign for the Future project. This project is designed to accept many kinds of tax-deductible gifts to secure and sustain the property and programming of the GFWC Federation. Members of the Alabama Federation of Women’s Club have a special opportunity to join together to have a room named for the state federation.