GERRY - The Rodeo City Senior Citizens met recently for their Christmas luncheon and program in the Gerry United Methodist Church.
Leona Peterson, president, welcomed all and gave the blessing before the meal. In her blessing, she said we need to remember the meaning of Christmas and to be thankful for food and blessings. The meal was a ham dinner, with side dishes brought by the members for the dinner. A fine dinner was enjoyed by all. Festive table decorations were provided by the Church, and all sat in a table pattern to form one large table around the room.
Following the meal, two guests were welcomed to the group. Margie McIntyre, secretary, said membership cards for the year 2013 are ready and dues may be paid. Treasurer Valerie Bartholomew gave a report on the Thanksgiving dinner held last month. Canned goods were collected for the local food pantry.
Wagonmaster O. Winston Bartholomew gave a report on possible bus tours for the next year, and asked who would interested in attending. Bartholomew also wrote a letter of report to the Gerry town board, who help to support the senior activities.
Peterson conducted the elections for 2013. Mrs. Peterson will continue to serve as the president, Tom Fairbanks will serve as the vice president, Margie McIntyre will serve as the secretary, and Valerie Bartholomew will continue as the treasurer.
Peterson appointed Ruth Newton to serve as the sunshine chairman and O. Winston Bartholomew to serve as the wagonmaster in charge of tours. Ruth Newton then recognized those having a birthday and those having an anniversary.
At the close of each luncheon, the group sings together the first verse of the hymn "Blest Be The Tie That Binds" led by member Bob Seastedt. Member John Sipos completed some research on the history of the hymn, which was written by Dr. John Fawcett in the year 1772. Sipos read all of the verses, and said the hymn was sung in the movie Our Town in 1940. At the close of this gathering, Bob Seastedt led all in the singing of the closing hymn.
The next luncheon meeting of the senior group will be held at the Gerry United Methodist Church on Friday, Jan. 11, at noon. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to pass and their own table settings. Table decorations will be provided by Bartholomew and Shirley Thomas. New members are welcome.