Merry Moderns Extension Homemakers met at the home of Carol Alward on Monday, Jan. 16, 2012.

Barbara Swanson opened the meeting by leading members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the Homemakers Creed. Roll call was answered to the question, “What is a good remedy for the winter blahs?”

Marilyn Sawyer read the November and December meeting minutes, which were approved. Sharon Raven gave the treasurer’s report. Alward gave the sunshine report, with special recognition given to Kenneth and Sharon Raven in honor of their 48th wedding anniversary. Jo Ludwig gave the health and safety report, “Let Your Resolutions Make You Happy” by keeping them manageable. Swanson gave the finalized report on the council Christmas party.

Raven submitted a letter from the Purdue Extension Office requesting club sponsorship of a trophy for a 4-H exhibit. The group chose to donate a trophy for Reserve Champion Pet.

A thank-you note was received from St. John’s Lutheran Church Board of Social Ministry for the homemakers’ recent donation.

Swanson announced that the following events will be held at the new LaPorte County Purdue Extension Office:

– An open house Jan. 26 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the new building, located at 2857 W. Ind. 2, across from the County Home.

– Extension Homemakers Educational Retreat Tuesday, March 20, from 3 to 7 p.m. with a carry-in dinner. The lessons to be offered are: Protecting Your Financial Documents from Disaster, Nourish Your Brain, and Get a Good Night’s Sleep. Register for the retreat by calling the Purdue Extension Office at 219 324-9407.

The International Faire will be held Saturday, April 21. An Amish Haystack dinner is being planned.

Swanson announced the following meetings at the Purdue Extension Office:

– All club presidents should attend a Nominating Committee meeting at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30.

– All club vice presidents should attend a program planning meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21.

The Coins for Friendship and Nickels for Leadership are to be sent to the county council treasurer by Feb. 1.

Dee Dickman presented a lesson on “10 Home Remedies that Work.”

The next meeting will be at Doris Bedwell’s home. Anyone interested in learning more about Extension Homemakers may call the Purdue Extension Office at 324-9407.