GFWC Book Lovers Study Club kicked off the year with its first meeting Sept. 10 at North Highland Church of Christ. Serving as hostesses were Leah Masterson, Cheri McCain and Martha Sibley.

Members attending wore face masks and observed the social distancing health restrictions.

New member Jill Masterson was welcomed, the 2020-2021 yearbooks were distributed to members and club dues were collected.

Brenda Oliver presented the program, “Empowering Others to Live Well through the AFWC President’s Project – Diabetes Awareness.”  Her presentation included the truth about diabetes, the types of diabetes, coping with diabetes and what to eat. Several handouts on diabetes were made available to members.

Members were reminded about the importance of participating in the Franklin County Counts Alabama 2020 Census. The Franklin County Extension Service provided complimentary promotional items for the 2020 Census. Following the meeting, members picked up aprons, pot holders, eye-glass cleaner, antibacterial wet wipes and stress balls.

Cheri McCain presented the institute on how members can register for the GFWC Member Portal. She also presented Techie’s Tips for logging in to the Member Portal.

There are many benefits to GFWC members, such as discount cards, pet insurance, free batteries and more.

In the business session, the proposed budget was approved. We also decided to support preserving our environment, the club’s monthly minutes will be emailed to members.

Also, a discussion was held regarding the annual Breast Cancer Wellness Walk.  The tentative date is Oct. 17. Michelle Sibley will serve as chairperson of the committee.

The September observations/events were listed in the yearbook. These included the Patriot Day 9/11 Remembrance; Grandparents’ Day, Sept. 13; Citizenship Day, Sept. 17; and International Day of Peace, Sept. 21. September is also Cholesterol Awareness Month; National Hispanic Heritage Month; Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month; Library Card Sign-up Month; and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

The meeting adjourned with the reading of The Collect.