The Cultura Garden Club held its October meeting at First Baptist Church in the Green Room. Serving as hostesses were Judy Baker and Joann Graham.

Patricia Cox presented the program and institute, “Enjoy the Beauty of Fall Through Hiking.” She enjoys hiking and describes it as a fun and relaxing way to experience the great outdoors with friends and family. You get to explore the beauty of nature that roads cannot reach.

Hiking offers health benefits that include help with weight management and stress reduction. Physical activity also decreases the risk of heart disease, hypertension and diabetes.

In preparing for a hike, she discussed the importance of making a trail plan with companions and having navigational tools such as a map, compass or GPS.

Make sure you have water and extra snacks, and be prepared for weather changes such as rain and temperature changes. Include sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses among your supplies.

Choose a comfortable backpack that won’t put excess strain on your back and shoulders.

Include safety items such as a fire starter, a flashlight, knife and a whistle in your safety kit. Prepare a first-aid kit that includes bandages, tape, antibiotic ointment, gauze pads, any medications and bug spray.

Pack a trash bag to keep the trails clean and free of garbage. Prepare for bathroom breaks by bringing toilet paper, hand sanitizer, waste bags and any other necessities.

Dress in layers with light-colored clothing, which helps you see bugs on you more easily. Wear comfortable pants to help keep you cool or warm depending on the temperature. Choose the right pair of hiking shoes for a successful hike and wear tall socks for extra protection.

She also shared a book that listed excellent hiking trails in Alabama. Some of these included Monte Sano Nature Preserve and Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, which are not far away in Madison County.

In the business session, the 2020-2021 yearbook was distributed to members. The club minutes and treasure report were approved. Appreciation was given to each member for the outstanding work they did for a successful mum fall fundraiser.

In spite of COVID, the garden club members voted to hold the annual Every Light a Prayer for Peace this year Dec. 3 at 4:30 p.m. in front of the courthouse. Work will begin soon on preparing the Christmas decorations for downtown and should be completed by Nov. 23.

Information regarding the Book Lovers Walking the Road to Wellness Breast Cancer fundraiser was given to club members. October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and everyone was encouraged to participate.

An announcement was made that the Main Street Halloween Trunk or Treat will be held Oct. 31 from 5-6 p.m. The event is sponsored by the First Methodist Church, First Baptist Church and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce.