By Adam Dodson | The Selma Times-Journal

The Selma-Dallas County Public Library kicked off 2018 with its first Lunch at the Library of the year.

This segment, titled “Quilts and Crockpots,” featured Jamie Alvey as the guest speaker.

To a crowd of around 50 people, Alvey presented her craft of quilting and explained her passion behind it.

The guests enjoyed a meal of chicken stew, turnip green soup, cornbread and baked goods while learning about Alvey’s techniques.

Some of Alvey’s specialties include regular quilts, special designs and baby apparel.

Like any passion, she wishes to share it with as many people as she can. This includes getting her friends involved and presenting it to a room full of people. Alvey, who has lived in Selma for a little over three years, looks for any opportunity to contribute to the community.

“Follow what you are passionate about and don’t be afraid to try out something new,” Alvey said.

“It has been a pleasant surprise to see how many artistic people live here. People are more connected in a small town, and I feel like I can help out in the community.”

Although Lunch at the Library is nothing new to the people of Selma, the residents still enjoy the different events the library is able to put on. Many of the audience members have lived in Selma for most of their lives, and are thrilled to see active participation and interest from people who are relatively new in town.

This includes Jan Parker, who helps facilitate the Lunch at the Library events. Parker believes new, unique speakers such as Alvey help cultivate a positive culture.

Parker says the Alveys have been positively impacting the community since her and her husband, Jack, head pastor at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, moved to town.

“She is a breath of fresh air,” Parker said. “She is able to be old school, like using her grandmother’s sewing machine, but is able to give it a modern twist. She has a positive influence on Selma and a huge impact on the community.”

While Alvey’s event was considered a success and influential to the community, more Lunch at the Library events will continue throughout the year. The next event will feature Chef Harry Dominick from Edmundite Missions, who will teach people how to make champagne chicken.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 8.