The Climbers Club winter activities included a festive guest night in December at the historic Captain Jack’s Guest House and a regular meeting at the lovely home of Mr. John Behan in January.

The iconic Hardy House, now Captain Jack’s, has been restored by John and Helen Lynch as a bed and breakfast and an event venue. Mrs. Lynch graciously offered their venue and served as hostess along with Mrs. William Boerner, Mrs. David Braden, Mrs. Stan Foster, Mrs. Lyle Hobbs, Mrs. Dave Langston, Mrs. Don Perkins and Ms. Stephany Smith. Members and their guests were free to tour the home that was built in 1877 and currently is on the National Historic Register.

Delicious refreshments were served in the elegant dining room with a table festively decorated with stately nutcrackers. Everyone enjoyed the seasonal piano selections performed by the talented Steve Russell. It was truly a memorable evening capturing the Christmas spirit.

The January meeting was held in beautiful home of Mrs. John Behan. Seasonal refreshments were served by Mrs. Behan who was assisted with fellow hostesses, Mrs. Michael Taylor and Mrs. Steve Russell.

The afternoon speaker was Dr. James DelPrince, Associate Extension Professor, Floral Management Program at Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center. While delivering a most informative and entertaining lecture on floral design, he was most enthusiastic about The Master Floral Designer Program. This is an online course and 4 day studio workshop all developed by Dr. DelPrince and one of the first in the country. The availability of this expert instruction certainly piqued the interest of many of the members in attendance.