The GFWC Book Lovers Study Club held its November meeting at the First United Methodist Church. Hostesses were Erica Adams, Ponda Gordon and Gayle McAlister.

“Empowering the Lives of Children through Health” was the program.

Guest speakers were Charlie Gordon and Mary Day.

Charlie Gordon spoke on the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership organization. HOBY is dedicated to “training and nurturing the young leaders of tomorrow.” Its mission is to provide lifelong leadership development opportunities that empower youth to achieve their highest potential and gain knowledge of leadership skills.

Charlie was selected his sophomore year to represent Russellville High School at the HOBY leadership seminar.

At the seminar, students participate in programs designed to enhance their leadership and teamwork skills. Students meet and converse with leaders in their community in fields such as volunteerism, media, education, philanthropy, and politics.

He discussed how this experience prepared him for the many opportunities, activities and awards he has received at the University of North Alabama.

Mary Day Smith is the 2020 Shoals Woman of the Year. She is a graduate of Russellville High School and the University of North Alabama, where she majored in sociology with psychology minor and emphasis on math.

She discussed her job as adjutant with the American Legion in Florence. She assists veterans, Americanism, children and youth programs and defense of our nation.

The program chairwoman was Ponda Gordon.

The club distributed HealthyChildren information to Russellville Elementary School and West Elementary School. For more information go to www.healthychildren.org

Members donated to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and to the Canine Companions for Independence organization, which provides assistance dogs free of charge to adults, children and veterans with disabilities.

Michelle Sibley, Breast Cancer Walk chairman, reported the project was a success with 38 participants taking part in the virtual cancer walk and with donations from the sponsors of the project.

Members were reminded to attend and support the Every Light a Prayer for Peace program, which will be Dec. 3 at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Franklin County Courthouse. In addition, a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held for the first time in Russellville.

The meeting was adjourned with the reading of the Collect and wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!