By JOHN DAVID ARCH
COMMERCE INTERN
Since the inception of Older Americans Month by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, much needed care for people over 65 years of age has improved over the years. On May 23, at Harrah’s Cherokee Resort Event Center, older Americans from seven different counties observed the 22nd Annual Senior Celebration, an event to honor and acknowledge older Americans.
The event program contained a copy of President Barack Obama’s proclamation of May as Older Americans Month. Since President Kennedy first declared the month of May as Older Americans Month, every president has formally asked the Nation to honor older Americans.
It was a wonderful celebration for me to get together and enjoy fellowship. Ms. Myrtle Driver opened the event with prayer. The Cherokee High School JROTC cadets presented colors, and Miss Cherokee Karyl Frankiewitz sang the national anthem.
Special guest speakers included Principal Chief Michell Hicks, Vice Chief Larry Blythe, Area Agency on Aging Administrator Sarah Melton, and Ms. Cherokee Karyl Frankiewitz. All speakers gave tribute and thanks for everyone in attendance, and Principal Chief Hicks had a moment of silence for all the Moore, OK Hurricane victims.
I enjoyed Vice Chief Larry Blythe and Wolftown Councilman Mike Parker’s performance of old songs mixed with gospel songs. During lunch, the Bittersweet’s Nightshade Mystery Theatre performed the first Biltmore mystery. The performance was filled with intrigue and brilliant collusion as the culprit is brought to justice through laughter and suspension.
I felt all enjoyed fun and laughter as Bingo was played throughout the afternoon while a few lucky people were able to take home various door prizes. Ms. Myrtle Driver closed the festivities with prayer and the Cherokee High School JROTC cadets retired the colors.
