The C.N.I.B. Charlottetown Branch, have had a special class for their members during the past few years.

The FBI. Women’s Institutes recognize those over 75 years of age

by arranging for special classes where they may exhibit their beautiful work.

In recent years one of the more popular features is Hospitality Time, in the WI. building. Each afternoon members of different In- stitutes act as hostesses and dispense hospitality to visitors.

Mrs. Aroti Dutt, President of A.C.W.W. paid a visit to the Building in 1967 and spent considerable time in viewing the exhibits and com- menting on the quality of the work.

A guest book is now used to record a list of visitors to the Handcraft exhibit.

The P.E.I. Department of Agriculture & Forestry provides an annual grant. In addition, the RBI. Exhibition Association allocates some monies to cover minor expenses and maintain the building. The P.E.I. Women’s Institute Board of Directors and the P.E.I. Department of Industry and Commerce award special prizes to specified overall winners at a ceremony arranged by the Exhibition Committee on Thursday afternoon of Exhibition Week.

Many people assist in the preparation of the Annual Prize List and set the stage for a smooth running exhibition. Judges are secured for the various classes and sections. Over 100 volunteers come from many communities to assist in supervising the exhibits in the Building. Demonstrators share their expertise and answer inquiries posed to them by people as they watch nimble fingers create beauty.

Providing the news media with judging results is an important item. The various media provide coverage of many events and people by interviews and releases from the WI Building.

One would be very remiss in not mentioning the people who made all this possible - the large group of very fine exhibitors - consistent and new exhibitors. Through their talents, varied and many, they are helping to create and maintain a showcase to treasure. Through the years we can see interior improvements and more attendion paid to displaying the exhibits to better advantage.

With a resurgence of interests in crafts throughout our province, the P.E.I. Women’s Institute has made its contribution to the promotion of these crafts by creating interest for the exhibitors through the publicity and awards offered at Old Home Week. The excellent displays speak for themselves in regard to the high quality of crafts of which our Islanders are capable.

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