JOHN DAY – Dec. 8, Carryl Magee announced and reminded about the donations for the Grant County Food Bank and the Tree of Joy. Many businesses and individuals are to be thanked for their thoughtfulness.

Dean Kile led the flag salute and Pastor Blesi asked the blessing. Members of Redeemer Lutheran Church served the meal of soup and sandwiches. Bob McCauley received the certificate from Len’s Drug.

Three dedicated ladies of the senior center scrubbed and waxed the floors of the bathrooms and dining room. This was a major undertaking and definitely an improvement that was needed. The center’s budget was cut, necessitating volunteers doing all the cleaning. Volunteers are also much appreciated in the kitchen. Ladies to be thanked for the shiny floors are Deda Porter, Elsie Husky and Carryl Magee.

Don Caldwell, who spent the entire day manning the senior booth at the bazaar, reports that $483.50 worth of items were sold and there was also a donation of $100. Wow! Thanks to all.

Volunteers made cookies at the center and also brought items to sell. A popular item always expected were Helen Bogart’s popcorn balls. Thanks to all.

Thursday the 11th, a larger crowd than usual enjoyed barbecue chicken, potato salad, buttered carrots and carrot cake. Driskill Memorial Chapel furnishes the birthday cake every second Thursday of the month.

Guests were 17 Little Singers, who sang beautifully for their dinner. Louise Kienzle is the director, and the accompanist was Kaylee Ausland. What a special group!

Don Porter led the flag salute and Rev. Bob Foreman asked the blessing. Members of the Mt. Vernon Grange and a “pickup crew” served the meal. Billy Drinkwater furnished the entree.

Thursday, Dec. 18, the Upriver Country Band will come to entertain. This band is a local group, who just enjoy music and entertaining. It is also requested that everyone bring a food donation for the food bank.

Monday, the 15th, cook’s choice will be served and the 18th will be the Christmas meal with ham served. The center will be closed Christmas Day and on the 29th, tuna casserole will be served.

Got a phone call from my kids, Neil and Jan, as they are flying to sunnier climes for a few days. Picked a good time as the big freeze is on its way.

You won’t “hear” from me until 2009, so wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.