Wednesday, March 23, 2011

New Opportunity School for Women Accepting Applications


Free program that provides boost, inspiration for Appalachian women taking applications


Photo by Video4net

 
Berea, KY - For 24 years, nearly 600 women across Appalachia have been learning they have the strength and courage to finish their education and to build the self-esteem they need to find their potential.   At no cost to them, women who find themselves in transition and are seeking to be inspired and build their confidence are doing just that through the New Opportunity School for Women (NOSW) in Berea, KY. 

"For me, the NOSW was a chance of a lifetime.  I wish every woman could attend.  I feel more alive now.  I feel like myself again.  Before the school, I had gotten so depressed because I felt like my life was over because I couldn’t work.  Now I feel like I may be able to work again with the education that I’m now getting.  Before the NOSW, I felt I was too old to go to college and begin again.  Now I know that I’m not – I see a future in my life again,” said a NOSW graduate from Norton, VA.

Now is the time to submit applications for the Summer, 2011 session.  Applicants who are selected and complete the three-week residential program will find themselves to be more self-sufficient, more confident, and will be an inspiration for their families and community.  Additionally, the New Opportunity School staff and alumni provide a strong support system for graduates.

The New Opportunity School’s unique program has received national recognition on Oprah and in People magazine.  The 2011 NOSW Summer Residential Session is June 5 –25.  The deadline for application is April 15, 2011

Requests for applications and/or additional information should be addressed to The New Opportunity School for Women, 204 Chestnut Street, Berea, KY 40403, or by calling 859-985-7200.  Our website, www.nosw.org, provides additional information regarding our no-cost program and a printable application. 

The New Opportunity School for Women, Inc. (NOSW) was founded in 1987 by Jane B. Stephenson to assist women of Appalachia and Kentucky in their pursuit of employment, education, and personal growth. The NOSW accepts women over 30 who have completed high school, have a GED (or actively working on a GED), and do not have a college degree.

 The program provides educational opportunities through classes in building self-esteem, computer basics, leadership development, Appalachian literature, self-defense, understanding violence against women, public speaking, learning how to become enrolled in further education, and cultural field trips and art related events.  Job search skills will be identified and participants will learn to write resumes and practice interview techniques.  Participants will intern in a field of interest, either on the Berea College campus or in the community.  Health screenings include mammograms, pap tests and dental exams.  Lodging and meals are provided; grants for travel and childcare are available. 


Friday, March 18, 2011

Spring Cleaning and Organizing at the Midway Library

 
Join me for Spring Green Cleaning & Organizing next Monday, March 21 at 6:30 pm at the Midway Library!

Photo by the trial
We'll be learning about ways to clean smart, get organized and keep your home spotless and healthy for you and our environment. Recipe cards for making your own cleaning supplies will be provided!

I hope to see you at this fun and informative workshop. Call the Midway Library at 859-846-4014 so we can count you in!


Thursday, March 17, 2011

Find Your Fit!

Have you ever wanted to try a new exercise class at the gym but you were scared to? Are you afraid to join a group or buy an exercise tape?  Join us for a great opportunity to discover the best “fit”ness for you!   

Photo by Rance Costa


On April 8 at the Mercer County Cooperative Extension Office, Motivational Fitness speaker and State Representative Kim King will start off our morning. Physical activity sessions will get you moving and a Dance, Dance, Revolution will begin!  

Participants can choose from breakout sessions that will include Zumba, Yoga, Tai Chi and self directed exercise. Presentations will include Matter of Balance by UK Get Moving Kentucky Coordinator, Nicole Peritore and Nutritional Support by UK Extension Nutrition Specialist, Janet Mullins.  


Photo by gigi.cinesebianco.


Date: April 8, 2011

Time:  9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 
Cost:  $15.00, includes lunch and gift
Location:  Mercer County Extension Office, 1007 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330, (859) 743-4378 

Print your Registration Form. Mail the completed copy and payment to the address listed on the form. 

We hope to see you there!! 

Photo by Trailnet

Thursday, March 3, 2011

State Homemaker Meeting Update


Agents received a few updates today regarding the Kentucky Extension Homemaker Association State Meeting to be held this year in Bowling Green Kentucky at the Sloan Convention Center May 9 - 12.

  • The KEHA newsletter was posted to the website in mid-February and began arriving in mailboxes last week.  Details regarding state meeting are included, along with the registration form.  
  • The room blocks at both the Holiday Inn and Hilton Garden Inn are both currently filled. The KEHA newsletter includes information about a special KEHA rate for rooms at the Hampton Inn.  The hotel is located just off Scottsville Road a short drive from the Sloan Convention Center and Holiday Inn.  The rate offered is $74.99 per night plus tax.
  • For the Tuesday evening banquet, attendees are encouraged to wear attire celebrating their favorite era or genre of music.  On Wednesday, everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite international dress or outfit.
If anyone from Woodford County plans to attend please let us know here at the Extension Office. 

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Quilter's Day Out


Photo by buckle1535
 
Quilters' Guild of the Bluegrass will be hosting Quilter's Day Out on March 19, 2011 at the Fayette County Extension Office. This free program celebrates National Quilting Day and runs from 10:00 am-3:00 pm.  Doors open for registration and shopping at 9:00 am.  

The morning program features Karen Witt and her daughter Erin.  They will talk about their new book Like Mother/Like Daughter-Two Generations of Quilts and present a trunk show of their work.  The afternoon program includes the Square in a Square Technique and quilts presented by Rita Hardman. 

 The Kentucky Heritage Quilt Society challenge quilts will be on display.  There will be refreshments, vendors, door prizes, quilt raffle, and lots of show and tell.  Non-perishable food items will be collected for God's Pantry.  Anyone who brings in three or more non-perishable donations for God's Pantry will receive an extra door prize ticket.   

Everyone is invited to bring up to three quilts to show and share.  Lunch is bring-your-own-brown-bag, or choose one of the many restaurant options nearby.  Car pooling is encouraged.

The Fayette County Extension Office is located at 1140 Red Mile Place in Lexington, KY.