Food for Thought – FCE 2024 Rally

May 3, 2024

Our Smith County Family and Community Education (FCE) Clubs had their annual Rally on April 27th. This year’s theme was “Blooming with FCE.”

Thanks to everyone who attended and helped prepare for this event. Sixty members and guests came out and enjoyed the day. Each club decorated their own table with their own beautiful and unique style depicting the beautiful spring season in full bloom. The cultural arts entries were lovely. A special thanks was extended to our great sponsors: Granville Bed and Breakfast and Gifts for the Hallie Mai Clemons Award, Citizens Bank for the Colossal Cake Contest, Janice Lynch for the 100% Membership Award, Farm Bureau, Wilson Bank and Trust, DTC, Smith County Bank, and Sanderson Funeral Home for Rally sponsorships.

Special events included Cultural Arts, Fashion Review, and the Colossal Cake Contest. Judges for these events were Janice Garrett and Robin George judging Cultural Arts and Fashion Review and Seasons Catering judging the cake contest. First and second place winners are eligible to enter the Regional Cultural Arts and Fashion Review Contest.

A candle lighting memorial ceremony was held in memory of our four deceased club members: Nancy Allen, Riddleton Club; Marcia Tisdale, Elmwood/Chestnut Mound Club; Carolyn Blair and Mary Etta Nixon, Hickman Club.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Seasons Catering. After the meal, the cakes entered in the cake contest were enjoyed. A $600 check was presented to Riverview Regional Volunteers Making a Difference, from this year’s Chocolate Extravaganza fundraiser.

We invite everyone to join one of the eight FCE clubs around the county or become a mailbox member. The University of Tennessee Extension of Smith County offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or veteran status and is an equal opportunity employer. For more information contact Mary Parker Draper at the Extension Office at 615-735-2900.

Pictured below is FCE County Council officers presenting donation to Riverview Regional Volunteers Making a Difference. (L-R): Peggy Kemp, Carolyn Sparks, Jill Mears, Lisa Harville, Myra Fisher, and Wendy Drumm.

Pork Chops & Rice

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 can cream of mushroom soup

2 cups chicken broth

1.5 cups rice

1 packet dry onion soup

8 boneless pork chops

Mix all ingredients except chops and pour into backing dish coated with Pam.

Place seasoned chops on top

Bake at 350 degrees for 1.25 to 1.5 hours.

Submitted by: Maggie Klenke, Grant FCE Club