Evergreen Outreach

By Joyce Mueller
This time of year is about new beginnings, planning and organizing.
We are enjoying the warmer days, filled with new activities which compete for our time and attention.
Everyone attending Evergreen Outreach looks forward to our Monday afternoon programs. Many of those who attend arrive in the Operation OUTING bus, which provides free transportation for the nursing home residents. For many, this is the one chance each week to leave their facility.
This week’s leader, Beulah Brown (substituting for Beverly Hood), was accompanied by pianist Phyllis Thoman in opening the program with the “Welcome” and “EO” songs.
Brown then recognized those celebrating birthdays – Nick Olive, Tina Klinghammer, Katrina Hudson, Shaun Wasser, Melissa Jokish, Hood and Brown.
The Rev. Jim Fackler also “filled in” for the Rev. Carl Rhodes, who was on vacation. Fackler referred to the celebration in New Orleans (among other places) of St. Joseph’s Day. He explained that among several major church denominations, this main feast day is March 19th. Traditional “altar tables” are set out for treats and refreshments during this time. As God’s instrument, Joseph, the carpenter, taught his skills to Jesus. Joseph also taught Jesus to focus on God and values. Fackler concluded by saying, “Give thanks for Joseph, say ‘yes’ to God and in your own way, reach out for Jesus.”
Turing to the stage, Brown introduced Randy Schukar and Judy Varga. Judy had a tight schedule, as she and her husband, Bob, went to Kirkwood, Mo., to get their granddaughters, 17-year-old Gwynith and 7-year-old Madelyn Upchurch.
Randy’s first selection was “I Was on His Mind,” and Gwynith followed with “Redneck Woman.”
Judy’s “assistants” (Erna, Karen, Jeanne and Sherry) wore chicken hoods covering their faces. They led in the requested “Chicken Dance” song, which was followed by “Locomotion.” The “train” of eight smiling cars wound its way around the room.
Madelyn’s two songs were, “One More Song About Jesus” and “One Pair of Hands.” Randy finished his set with “Elvira,” “Ring of Fire,” “The Gambler” and “I Walk the Line.” Judy concluded with “Lollypop,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter” and "Tennessee Waltz."
In the pinochle corner, Peggy Lippold and Flo Lange beat John Hunsley and Wolf Schlicht, 3-1. At the second table, Mary Woolsey and Jeanne Schlicht won 1-0 over Shirley Locke and Ruth Ann Scott.
Scheduled for next week are Cindy Hunter (leader), the Rev. Roger Grimmett (scripture), David and Patricia Pence (music) and Mary Woolsey (writer).
One final note: Did you take time to vote in the primary? Your future may depend on your next voting privilege.
CARPE DIEM (seize the day)!