The GFWC Book Lovers Study Club held its February meeting at the First United Methodist Church Ministry Center. Co-hostesses were Carolyn Porter, Anna Carol Porter and Rebecca Reeves.

The program highlighted the GFWC Arts and Culture Community Service Program. Shelia Upchurch presented the program on the Mardi Gras history.

Although New Orleans is perhaps the best-known for its Mardi Gras revelry, the port city of Mobile, founded in 1702 by French settlers, lays claim to being the city that first observed Mardi Gras in 1711. New Orleans wasn’t founded until 1718; therefore, Mobile had the earliest celebration between the two cities.

Regardless of which city was first to host the Mardi Gras, today both are recognized for outstanding celebrations and parades. Various cities enjoy Mardi Gras parades with colorful costumes – purple, green and yellow being  the official colors – complete with beads, face paint, banners, King Cake and more.

Russellville’s Krewe de Guard organizer Anna Carol Porter reported on the second annual Mardi Gras parade held Feb. 19 in downtown. Proceeds raised from this event will be given to the Russellville Public Library. The following were honored in this year’s parade: Katernia Cole Coffey as grand marshal, Patricia Cox as queen and John Pilati as king.

For the Institute, each member received a handout titled “The COVID Pandemic Effects on the Arts.”

New club members Donna Trapp and Pam Hagedorn were welcomed to their first meeting.

Members discussed final plans for the GFWC Alabama North District meeting. The meeting will be held March 12 at the Russellville First Baptist Church. The Place of Grace is the project Book Lovers have selected for the AFWC North District club members to support.

For Book Lovers’ spring fundraiser, a Table Scape Brunch will be held March 26 at 10 a.m. at the Russellville First United Methodist Church. A fashion show featuring participants modeling local businesses clothes and jewelry will be the highlight of the event. A drawing for door prizes will be held at the close. Tickets may be purchased from any club member.