St. Martinville – Volunteers for Family and Community (VFC) recently held its September meetings with 83 members in attendance.

Katie deMahy Hebert, CEO of St. Martin Hospital, and Nicki Lemaire, Ag Center Home Economist were the guest speakers at the meetings.

Hebert spoke on the five incentives that she is working on at the hospital. They are: people, quality, service, growth and adding physicians.

She stated that they are going to incorporate CT and mammography units in the near future.

Lemaire discussed asthma, which is a rising health issue.

It is the most common childhood chronic disease in the United States. It is the number one reason why children miss school and the number one cause of pediatric visits to the ER in Louisiana.

She discussed the five major asthma triggers found in the home: second-hand smoke, mold, dust mites, pet dander and pests.

Mini-demonstrations were given by Gussie Delahoussaye (about horticulture, Betty Guidry (about crochet alligator and Saints scarves and hats) and Georgie Courville (about all types of bonnets).

Iva Theriot presided over the Catahoula meeting, which was held at Lil Blanchard’s home. She also read a poem “Be at Peace with Yourself.”

Elsie Castille presided over the Breaux Bridge, Arnaudville, and Nina groups. She discussed in detail the Awards Day Categories (foods and crafts). This will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 13. Sue Dupont and Guy Cormier are the scheduled speakers.

The Carville educational day trip is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 21.