The October meeting of Cultura Garden Club was hosted by Carol Dykes and Barbara Sage. The Dykes’ barn, which was built in the 1920s and recently refurbished, provided a unique setting with fall decorations.

Chase Sparks, floral designer and owner of Russellville Florist and Gifts, presented the program. He shared the changes that have been made in floristry and shared many new holiday decoration ideas and gift selections.

Russellville Florist and Gifts’ Open House will be held the first weekend in November.

Fundraising Committee Chairman Debbie Nale gave a report on a very successful mum sale. Members were given accolades for their work and dedication to this fundraiser.

Fall Committee Chairman Cheri McCain expressed appreciation to the club members for their work in helping with the fall decorations for downtown.

President Hillary Hall discussed the plans and the timeline for decorating downtown Russellville for the Christmas holidays. Committees were appointed, and work will begin on displaying the decorations after Veterans Day.

As civic chairman, I presented plans for Every Light a Prayer for Peace, which will be held Dec. 6 at 4:30 p.m. at the Franklin County Courthouse. The public is invited to attend. A reception to honor veterans will be held prior to the event in the Courthouse, starting at 3:30 p.m. The Christmas parade will be held on the same day following these two events.

Members made plans to attend the Garden Clubs of Alabama District I meeting Oct. 25 in Red Bay at the Weatherford Centre for the Performing Arts.

By Susie Hovater Malone