First Extension Open House honors local residents, artists
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Sharonna Hayes with the Goodwater Youth and Recreational Center is recognized as a Citizen of the Year in appreciation for her service to the community and residents. Photo submitted

A variety of subjects was featured at the open house, showcasing the talents of local artists. Photo submitted

Coosa residents Spencer Hardy, left, and John Harris visit during the Extension’s first open house event. Photo submitted

Members of Verlin Collins’ Sewing Class with the Maxye Veazey Senior Adult Center put on a fashion show, modeling outfits sewn from recycled and refashioned materials. Photo(s) submitted
Special to the News
The Coosa County Extension Office hosted its inaugural Open House last Thursday, October 3. The theme this year was “Celebrating Coosa County.”
Almost 60 guests attended the event, which featured local artists including Megan Jones, Anastasia Kelly, Beverly Lightsey, and Diane Hough, Janet Gogan, and Joe Fehrmann from the Artists Association of Central Alabama in Alexander City.
Businesses and organizations serving Coosa County provided attendees with health information, door prizes, a variety of garden seeds, T-shirts, and more. Organizations represented included Home Depot of Alexander City, Alabama One Credit Union of Rockford, Pelican’s SnoBalls of Sylacauga food truck, owner Alex Cox, and Alabama 4-H ambassadors under the direction of Mrs. Joy Scott.
Rockford Pharmacy was also present and provided attendees with a free blood pressure screening.
Guests were treated to a food tasting provided by the Coosa SNAP-Ed agent assistant, Tabatha Glassburn. Former Extension Coordinator and Coosa County resident Roger Vines provided the live music.
Ladies from Verlin Collins’ Sewing Class with the Maxye Veazey Senior Adult Center also hosted a live fashion show, modeling their outfits that were sewn from recycled and refashioned materials.
Coosa Extension office recognized Ms. Sharonna Hayes with the Goodwater Youth Development and Recreational Center and Ms. Marty Rittmann with the Children’s Policy Council as Citizens of the Year for their remarkable and unwavering service to the residents and communities of the county.
The Coosa County commissioners were also recognized as distinguished guests and for their continued support of the Extension’s missions and community outreach programs.
Shannon Davis, the county coordinator for the Extension office, said, “At its foundation, the Extension office both serves and celebrates the communities and residents of Coosa.”
She added, “The open house event was a success as it celebrated the talents and passions of residents, allowing others to see the beauty of Coosa County in a different way. We look forward to growing the event next year and showcasing others’ crafts and talents.”
