Scripture readings from Luke verses 1-7. Carols sung by the members were ‘O’ Little Town of Bethlehem’, ‘Silent Night’, ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘It came upon a Midnight Clear’ and ‘Joy to the World’. Orell Smallman and Lorraine Harris read The Christmas Story. And devotion closed with a prayer by Orell. School Committee reported that mouse seed had been put out and the water was shut off by Tommy Smallman. Christmas party will be held December 19. Decorating will be done that morning. Hospital committee reported that the auxiliary will be discussing a new board analyzer needed for the hospital. Correspondence consisted of a letter from the QEH thanking the KWI for their past support and asking for a donation to Friends for Life Campaign. This will be discussed at a later date. Agriculture convener Fairley Yeo presented a program on the value of agriculture products to our P.E.I. economy. Potatoes rank the highest with grain second, beef, kale crops, cranberries, blueberries, apples also important contributors. Dairy products are also important exports. There are 206 dairy farms on P.E.I. The hog industry is in transition, many farmers have discontinued their operations. Sunshine Pals for 2013 were chosen and pals were revealed, with everyone receiving lovely gifts. Meeting closed with all members
singing Jingle Bells and wishing all a good night.
2013 was a year of many guest speakers, conventions, and a celebration or two. Everyone had a turn hosting the regular meeting in their home. Crystal would be shining, good china was used, and sometimes home-made ice-cream was served. Hosting a regular KWI meeting with your sister members as the attendees was a big deal. The ladies would want everything to be shiny clean and perfect. It was a time to be able to show off their home to one another. Also, they were planning an important tea party for 2014 to commemorate the 100 years the Women’s Institute
had been organized since 1864.
Sadly, though, it was also the year their dear sister member, Mrs. Helen Adams, passed away. Barbara and Orell Smallman will conduct a memorial for her at a later date, as is the custom when a member of the Women’s Institute passes. Citizenship and legislation convener Eileen Smallman gave an interesting reading on P.E.I. women’s journey from getting the right to vote to present day. During that time, women have become MLAs, cabinet ministers, senators and
Lieutenant Governor. P.E.I. had the first female premier in Canada, Catherine Callbeck.
In March, the KWI welcomed Constable Earl Woodside, who spoke on drug awareness and
crime prevention. Also, Dwight Kirkham spoke on First Aid services. President Joan Smallman
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