Magic of Aging

September 2008

by R. H. Carter

Labor Day is here, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, Christmas will then fly by faster than we can imagine and then it’s “Happy New Year”. We will be looking back on 2008 and wondering where did it go. The article included in last months issue reported on a large series of health screenings and education that can lead older citizens toward a healthier life style.

{sidebar id=1}This year has brought more happiness and special events than I can list. Our “Christmas in July” fundraising luncheon was a huge success. Our friends and neighbors continue to support our efforts. Times are difficult, but our seniors remain engaged in our community and our citizens recognize this.

Many years ago Ronnie Kilgore began bringing his staff and friends to a fry fish for our seniors and his initiative has continued. Donnie Sparkman, our Property Appraiser, Doc Mathers, Jerrell Metcalf and several others were here on August 15 to fry mullet for all to enjoy. This was a very special time for the seniors. They are always grateful when our community expresses their love and support toward them. Jerrell Metcalf continues to be the “Hush Puppy Champion” of Wakulla County. I’ve tried but I can’t come close to cooking a hush puppy like his.

The senior citizens Board of Directors has taken action to provide a FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER on November 25 from 4pm til 7pm for our Wakulla County citizens. Last year we served 345 dinners. This year, we are planning for 500. I think Wakulla County knows that we recognize and are thankful for our community support but we enjoy expressing our “Thank You Wakulla County” as often as we possibly can.

In 2007 the cost of food was immediately donated by two individuals. The food cost was $1,100. There were several that wanted to contribute. We declined any more donations after we had met our costs.

The Board decided that this year we should accept donations from all that desire to participate in this event. If the donations exceed the cost of food, the extra will be used for Christmas baskets for needy families. We never have enough Christmas baskets to meet the needs that we see. Our staff regularly pays from their own pockets to provide needed gifts, but there are always more. We will tell you more about that in a later issue.

Remember to share some magic.

This article originally published on August 22, 2008.

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