Published: November 03, 2009 08:45 pm      

127 SENIORS: Members enjoy Halloween festivities

Members of the 127 Seniors group gathered last Friday, Oct. 30, in the rain again. They sure love the rain. Coffee and pastries and lots of Halloween candy was enjoyed by all. To bring some much needed sunshine, sponsor Diane Rathnow, owner of Preferred Care at Home, graced their presence dressed as a sexy kitty cat. She brought along nice prizes and called the fifth Friday bingo game. Thanks so much, Diane!

President Shirley Phillips called the general meeting to order and asked Jan Neitzke to led everyone in prayer. Bob Kirkland followed with the pledge.

Carol Kirkland reported on her sunshine and cheer efforts. Those to keep in your thoughts and prayers this week are Alice Maher, Bud Garchow, Dorothy Kearley, Herb Hofmann, Pat Mount, Betty Swopey, Doris Fraser, John and Rita Marvin, Bob Dormagen and Ed and Martha Enickson. Should you know of anyone who is ill or needs cheering just see Carol. She does a great job.

Jan gave her travel report. Seats are still available to visit the Dixie Stampede on Dec. 12, and see the Carl Hurley and Jeanne Robertson show on Oct. 5, 2010. It is possible to put your name on the waiting list for the Colorado trip next summer. Simply call Jan at 788-3667. She reported that she is researching a trip and tour of the CNN Tower in Atlanta for next March and will provide more details as they become available.

She also asked for a volunteer to make the coffee for the month of November, and Robby Robertson took on the task. She also asked that members not to bring any desserts next week as there is an over supply. So they will use those.

Finally don't forget that the center's annual Thanksgiving lunch will be held Nov. 20. The cost will be $5 per member.

Two other items were discussed. First, Carol Kirkland nominated Rachel Schellinger for the Senior of the Year, and all were in agreement. So her name will be submitted.

Then, there was the need for a volunteer to chair the committee for the Christmas tree decoration at the First Tennessee Bank. Connie Tyler stepped up and accepted this position. Connie suggested that a group get together at the center for a day of baking and decorating Christmas cookies. Anyone who wants to help should see Connie. She also explained how members could count the stars inside the ring around the moon to predict the weather. Probably as fool proof as our weather forecasters on radio and TV. Also, watch for the many articles regarding the upcoming coal ash meeting at Stone Memorial High School on Nov. 5, at 6 p.m.

Without further adieux, it was on to the Halloween fun and games. In the pumpkin carving contest, the best pumpkin overall award went to Jan Neitzke, and the most original and the funniest went to Rachel Schellinger.

Then, it was on to the men's and women's legs in several categories. For the women, most sexy went to Sandy Devine, the most athletic went to Connie Tyler, and the best looking was awarded to Betty Barnett. In the men's group, the guy with the hairiest went to Fred Whittaker. The most athletic went to Don Nyquist, and best looking went to Gary Schellinger.

Finally, there were five contestants who came in costume. The scariest prize went to Nelita Clarkson dressed as Jason. The most original was awarded to Sandy Devine as a "total wreck," and best of the show went to Mary Hirsch, the center's own Mickey Mouse.

Many thanks to all the committee members who worked so hard to put the show together and the great table decorations, etc. and to all those tireless volunteers who helped.

After the table blessing, Pat Gambaccini and her assistants put together a great lunch of sandwiches, salads and desserts along with coffee and iced tea. It was a fine party. See you all next week.