Submitted photoFirst Christian Church, 1301 23rd Avenue, recognized its 50-year members on Oct. 29. Pictured from left to right with Pastor Mark Benson are (front) Donna McDonald, Gail Gilmore, David Gilmore, Donna Downey, Cherie McCall, Jacque Longmeier, (back) Ree Pollman, Kay Wolfe, Bill Wolfe, Myra Mabry, Babs Davis, Jerrell Polk. Not pictured are Betty Toney, Ed Brown, Mary Polk, June Ferguson, Ina Pace, Leslie Purvis, Bruce Bebensee, Kay Reed, Eleanor Braud. 

There are a lot of activities going on this weekend in Meridian, but locals don’t want to miss the annual Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale, which is sponsored by the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers Council.

This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the two-day fundraiser. Previously held at the Frank Cochran Center in Highland Park, the event will take place again this year at the Tommy E. Dulaney Center across from Meridian Community College.

The event, first held at the old fairgrounds, started out as a means for area homemaker clubs to raise money for their projects. Now, 33 years later, it has evolved into a weekend extravaganza, allowing participating artists and craftsmen to earn money for their craft.

This year, more than 94 vendors will be on site with an array of handmade crafts to sell that include birdhouses, T-shirts, jams and jellies, jewelry, iron and metal works, canned goods, wood items, monogrammed clothing, wreaths, and Christmas items, along with homemade baked goods consisting of caramel cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and dips.

What draws shoppers back year after year? Patty Swearingen, Lauderdale County Coordinator for the Mississippi State University-Extension Service said reasons vary.

“One of the main things people love – the items are homemade, which is something every arts and crafts show does not offer,” Swearingen said. “One of their favorites is the baked items. A lot of shoppers come back each year looking for their favorite vendors. Plus it’s a great way for those early holiday shoppers to come out and get a jump start on their Christmas shopping.”

There will be vendors coming from the surrounding area, along with vendors from Mobile, Ala., Jackson, and Hattiesburg. The Moose Club will be the vendor for the show.

Proceeds from the Homemakers Arts and Crafts Show and Sale will support local service agencies, including Care Lodge, L.O.V.E.’s Kitchen, Hope Village for Children and Feed By Faith.

Doors will open Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. 

Admission is $1. For more information call the Lauderdale County Extension Service 601-482-9764.

Lauderdale Community Club

Everything old is new again as the Lauderdale Community Development Club hosted their Sponsors Appreciation meal on Oct. 24. The Community Club building, housed in the old cannery of the Lauderdale School, welcomed over 65 members and guest.

The evening began with Moley Herring presenting a patriotic talk and leading the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Club member, Michael Wright blessed the meal and everyone enjoyed a catfish buffet. The old school house was filled with lighthearted laughs and fellowship, much like days gone by.

Linda Clayton, Club President, reported some exciting news of the revitalization in the small community. Some highlights included the plans for the preservation and future use of the stone building that was part of the old school campus. Another building in the community, once used as a factory, will soon be home for a local church and work has begun on renovations of the ballfield.

The night concluded with Clayton presenting Lauderdale Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jubal Ryan a check in appreciation for the work they do to keep our community safe. Clayton reminded everyone of the importance volunteers play in making our efforts in the community work. The members and guest were invited to tour one of the buildings in the process of being revitalized which showcased the joint effort of the community coming together in Lauderdale one building at a time.

Promotions at Key Field in Meridian 

October promotions for the 186th Air Refueling Wing at Key Field in Meridian include 2nd Lieutenant to 1st Lieutenant: James William McKie, Kory K. Moore, Kayla R. Mosley and John M. Smith II; 1st Lieutenant to Captain: Brent P. Gough and Melissa Y. Rivera; Captain to Major: Christopher C. Allen and David A. Sutton.

Cheryl Owens writes the Neighbors column for The Meridian Star. Submit items to cowens@themeridianstar.com.