What a wonderful Christmas party we had! Those present enjoyed a lovely setting, Christmas songs, good food, great conversation, and presents. Our annual Christmas party was held at the Holiday Inn in Mt. Vernon and began at 12:30 p.m. Forty-four members and guests attended. Members present were: Barbara and David Daniel, Sarah and Max Doerr, Ada and Jack Fleeharty, Howard Groner, Linda and Walter Hangsleben, Frankie and Richard Howell, Louise and Jerry Humble, Betty and Jim Hutchens, Conrad Jenkins, Roland Keim, Norma and Elmer Koen, Wanda and Bill Lockin, Doris and Art Meier, Rose and Daniel Nugteren, Vera and LeRoy Pittman, Kay and Jim Ryan, Ericka and Karl Schaette, John and Rose Ann Schwartz, Tim Schwartz, Linda and Phil Stallings, Jane and Curt Wheat, Carol and Gordon White, and Linda and Bob Zoeller. Jeff Bradshaw, Betty Hutchens son, and his fiancée, Jana, were our guests. And we heard that the bad weather north and west of Mt. Vernon kept the Edna and Dennis White at home.

The room was beautifully decorated by Betty, Jim, Jeff and Jana. Snowmen, Christmas trees, Santas, candles and white lights set a lovely scene. The food was super. Jeff Bradshaw sang several Christmas songs, including “White Christmas” and “I’ll be home for Christmas.” (There were several more but I didn’t take very good notes here!) In the drawing for table decorations the winners were: Daniel, Hangsleben, Humble, Koen, Nugteren, Ryan, and Stallings. We all enjoyed our presents! I hope everyone keeps good notes as I can see the opportunity to share discoveries coming in the spring….

Also, the installation of officers was completed. Our Region First Vice-President, Louise, installed President, Gordon White, Treasurer, Rose Ann Schwartz, and Corresponding Secretary, Carol White.

Remember the January luncheon in Nashville, IL. More opportunities for conversation and good food will be there. Sarah Doerr is coordinating the winter luncheons for the unit.

Carol White

At the time of this writing we learned of the passing of Sheila Himes’’s Mother. Our sympathy and prayers go to Bud and Sheila Himes and family.

Elmer and Norma Koen continues to need our prayers. The trip to St. Louis was a disappointment as Elmer is not a candidate for the Gamma Knife procedure. They have had a rough time and we are sure they would appreciate hearing from you.

We want to mention again about the Christmas Party. Get your name on the list. We are planning and hoping for a good time. RSVP to us as soon as possible, we are still in Illinois as we have decided not to leave for Florida until after the party. The cost for your meal, everything included is $15.00 per person. Send your check to us at our Benton address; we will eat at 12:30 P.M.; there will be drawings for gifts, Santa might have just dropped in too; we will have a little entertainment and hope to be able to visit awhile. We are looking forward to seeing you there. Remember that our new President and Treasurer will be installed.

Jim and Betty