By SHARON G. McBRIDE
Frontiersman
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The Wasilla Homemakers club can trace its roots back to the 1940s. The Family and Community Education (FCE) organization is dedicated to “improving their knowledge and skills for the betterment of themselves, their families and their communities,” said Bonnie Dinkel, president.
That's what the program Raise-A-Reader is all about, and that's why this group of 20 ladies has spent hours upon hours putting together packets for the program.
The packets are given to every new mother in the Valley, and they contain a small locally produced story book, a baby blanket and information on reading to children. Creating the blankets is where these ladies lend their talents.
Last year more than 800 packets were given to new moms in the Valley, and each had a custom-sewn blanket, the majority of which were stitched together by the group. The packets are a good way to get parents to realize the importance of reading - the earlier the better, Dinkel said.
“Sharing books helps create a special bond between parents and children,” states the Raise-A-Reader packet literature. “It also enhances children's listening skills and develops important language skills. It also improves and enriches the quality of children's lives.”
The blanket is just an added bonus. But besides a way to indulge their creative sides, the women who sew the blankets also find it's a great way to get together and remain active in their community.
“I enjoy it, and it's a good way to meet people,” said Elverda Lincoln, who has been a member for 51 years. “It's a great way to keep busy and do something constructive.”
Other projects by the group include participating in craft fairs, book bazaars and demonstrations at the fair every year.
“But when push comes to shove, and someone needs help, we come through,” Dinkel said. “Being there for each other, that's really what we are all about, not just community service.”
The Wasilla club meets once a month, and new members are welcome. Interested persons should call 376-5774.
There are other chapters of the FCE that meet around the Valley as well. For more information about FCE clubs in your area contact, the Cooperative Extension Service District Offices at 745-3360, or go online at www.uaf.edu/coop-ext.
Contact Sharon G. McBride at 352-2250 or sharon.mcbride@frontiersman.com.
Comments
7 comment(s)Don Moody wrote on Mar 4, 2009 8:31 PM:
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a Jew wrote on Apr 30, 2008 6:59 AM:
“As far as I'm concerned, it's none of anybody's business,” he said.
“If somebody doesn't like it, they can get up and walk out any (rejected in comment) time they want. There never has been a problem ... until some New Yorker tried to stick their (rejected in comment) noses into our business.”
Ah McCarthy! Traditional Christian love!
"
Allison wrote on Apr 25, 2008 4:44 PM:
*Do as you want,as if everyone will still love you,anditkeepsyouhealthy* "
shayde wrote on Apr 18, 2008 12:03 PM:
rachel swanson wrote on Mar 13, 2008 8:28 PM:
Rachel
thanks "
jennifer wrote on Feb 22, 2008 2:40 PM:
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