WINTERSVILLE — With the holiday decorations tucked away and the Tri-State Area settling into the rhythm of winter, the ladies of the Wintersville Woman’s Club are already looking ahead toward a new year of fellowship and service.

President Cheryl Taylor welcomed members into 2026 with a reminder that while the snow may be creeping back into the Ohio Valley, the warmth of the club’s mission remains constant. The group’s monthly meeting, held Thursday at St. Florian Hall, began the year on a bright note, with a reading and new year’s prayer presented by Aimee Jaros prior to a buffet luncheon served by Undo’s.

Following the meal, members gathered to paint “positivity” rocks as a means of spreadig a little joy to others. For those who felt their artistic skills were a little rusty, the club provided photo ideas to help spark inspiration.

Taylor noted last year, blizzard-like conditions hampered the group’s January meeting; fortunately, however, Wednesday evening’s snowfall was not enough to disrupt this year’s first meeting of the new year. As the Wintersville club steps into this new chapter, planning is already underway for the 2026-27 club year.

A “suggestions” list was available at the new entry table area, where members are encouraged to share ideas for future programs and projects. Those ideas will be reviewed by the summer planning committee, according to officials.

Looking even further ahead, the club sought three members to serve on the nominating committee for 2026-28 officers. “This is a vital opportunity for members to learn the inner workings of the organization,” Taylor said, noting current officers are ready to mentor their successors so as to ensure a smooth transition.

Those interested in serving the club in this capacity were encouraged to contact Taylor.

The spirit of giving remains a cornerstone of the Wintersville membership, with several collection drives continuing. Members were reminded to bring in art and school supplies for distribution to local schools, as well as used eyeglasses — minus the cases — for the Health and Wellness Committee.

Health and wellness will be the topic of the February meeting, Taylor noted.

The club’s environmental efforts are continuing as well, with a call to save plastic bags for Indian Creek High School’s bench project. Empty medicine bottles are still being sought for the Jefferson County Humane Society. For the latter, donors are asked to remove all labels but ensure the lids are included.

On the administrative side, Treasurer Karen Hill indicated a slight change in the monthly lunch fee, which is now $16. Members were reminded the club must pay for the number of reservations made; therefore, if a member cannot attend or fails to cancel, a reimbursement to the club is appreciated.

In honor of Glaucoma Awareness Month, the club is sharing health information regarding this “silent thief of sight.” Glaucoma, which involves the buildup of fluid and pressure that can damage the optic nerve, is often painless in its early stages, particularly the common open-angle variety. The club emphasizes the importance of routine eye exams, as early detection by an ophthalmologist is the only way to prevent permanent vision loss.

From daily eye drops to surgical procedures like iridotomies, treatments are available, but regular follow-up care is essential.

For those wishing to send a bit of encouragement to their fellow members, Michalene King, corresponding secretary, is the point of contact for get-well, sympathy, or thinking-of-you cards.

King noted six cards were sent to members within the last month. To contact King, call or text (740) 381-3528.