Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Cooperative Extension Office is pleased to offer the following Family and Consumer Sciences Programs for April, 2013. These programs are being offered by Brenda C. Williams, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, at the Extension Office (2800 NE 39 Avenue, Gainesville).

First Time Home Buyers Program – This series offers resources that can help with buying, maintaining and keeping a home.  Upon completion of this program, participants will receive a certificate of attendance. The classes are on three consecutive Tuesdays, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and will cover the following:

Session 1 – Tuesday, April 9

Information on: getting budgets and credit worthiness in line, determining how much house can be afforded, and understanding the responsibilities and costs of being a responsible homeowner.

Session 2 – Tuesday, April 16

Information on: understanding sales contracts, home inspections, the mortgage process, selecting homeowners’ insurance, warranties, and the closing process.

Session 3 – Tuesday April 23

Question and answer time and an opportunity to get valuable tips from those involved in the process of buying a home.

Click to view the event flyer.

The cost for the entire series is $10.00 per individual or couple. Pre-register by April 5, by calling 352-337-6209 (voicemail), subject to cancellation if less than five people register.

Home Food Preservation Workshop – April 15, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and repeated from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Basic information on canning foods using the steam pressure canner or boiling-water canner. Directions and tips will also be included on making jams, jellies and pickles.

There is no cost, but registration is required at least three working days prior to workshop. Printed materials will be available for $3.00 per set.

Healthy French Cooking – April 19, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Dr. Brenda Williams will be hosting this class with guest Chef Michel Maloiseu. Preparation of healthy, uncomplicated chicken dishes and vegetable sides with a French flair will be demonstrated.

Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions of the chef as well as sample the demonstrated dishes and receive copies of recipes.

Click to view the event flyer.

This class is limited to 35 participants with a minimum of 10 required to conduct the class. Registration fee is $35.00 and must be received at the Extension Office prior to 4 p.m., on April 10.

Before You Tie the Knot – April 22 & 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Before You Tie the Knot is a premarital preparation course.

Topics include: Communication, Conflict Management and Resolution, Financial Responsibility and Spending Plans, and Children and Parenting Responsibilities.

Click to view the event brochure.

Completion of this course is required to receive a $32.50 reduction of marriage license. Attendees will receive a certificate of completion and a copy for the Clerk of the Court.

There is no cost to attend this two evening class.

Pre-register at least five days in advance by calling 352-337-6209 (voicemail), subject to cancellation if less than three couples register.

For more information about these programs, call 352-955-2402. Visit the Extension Office calendar for additional programs offered by the Extension Office.