By By Beth Randall / 4-H youth agent
September 26, 2004
Time sure flies when you are having fun. For the past 10 years the Mississippi State University Extension Service in cooperation with community sponsors have provided conferences focused on strengthening families, and this year it is time to celebrate.
Everyone loves a party, and this year our Family Matters conference will be a party for the entire family complete with birthday cake. There will be interactive sessions for youth as well as face painting, storytelling, and games for children. For parents and child caregivers there will be informative workshops.
Family Matters: Celebrating Families will be Oct. 23, beginning at 9 a.m., at MSU Meridian Campus. This year's keynote speaker will be Margaret D. McGlown, an educational consultant and founder of YouthServices Network who specializes in character development, conflict intervention, counseling, and mentoring.
Her warm interactive session will allow parents to view parenting techniques as their child journeys from birth to adulthood.
In addition to the general session, we will have breakout sessions with the themes of Celebrate Education, Celebrate Relationships, Celebrate Health, and Celebrate Traditions.
This is a free conference, and now is the time to mark the Family Matters Celebration on your family's calendar. This event will be perfect way to celebrate the importance of the family and learn strategies to bring your family closer. For more information about the event, contact your local Extension Office. The number in Lauderdale County is 482-9764.