A beloved Ridgemont Local Schools tradition that involves pupils from all grade levels and numerous staff members was able to return to the district Thursday, Dec. 8, with a warm meal and plenty of heartfelt Christmas cheer for senior citizens in the community.
The 15th annual senior citizen holiday luncheon is one that students and seniors alike are glad is back in action, following its cancellation the last two years because of safety precautions with COVID-19.
Longtime Administrative Assistant Sandy Overly works behind the scenes to ensure the organization of the meal and all of its moving parts go off without a hitch. She said it has been a great pleasure to bring back the Christmas luncheon and have the senior citizen guests in the building again.
“A high school teacher told me she had students list what they want to come back and what they miss because of COVID, and many mentioned the luncheon we had to cancel for the last two years. I think that says it all,” she said of the tradition that began in 2005 and typically serves close to 120 guests.
While sitting down to her meal, district nurse Amy Bahr related that it’s enjoyable to meet the many grandparents and fellow seniors in the community.
“I talk to so many of the grandparents over the phone when their grandchildren come down sick,” she said. “So it’s nice to be able to put a face with the voices I talk to. Many grandparents these days are pitching in to help with the grandkids when they are ill.”
Mary Ann James, 89, said she hasn’t missed the senior luncheon since she moved to the district in 2006, attending this year with her daughter, Cindy English. Mrs. James’ late husband, Lauren James, was a Ridgemont graduate, who liked watching people’s puzzled reactions when he told them he graduated from the school in 1980.
“He had to leave high school early his junior year to help his family, working with a trucking company. Then he served in the Korean War,” Mrs. James said. “Ridgemont gave him an honorary diploma in 1980, and he got the full cap and gown and everything. It was very nice ceremony.”
Among the guests also included retired Ridgemont Superintendent Ralph Snyder and his wife, Jeannie.
Boys’ and girls’ basketball team members, along with cheerleaders, served as the hosts for the meal.
Entertainment was provided by carolers, including preschool and second- and third-graders. The concert band, under the direction of Cassie Thomas, also provided a number of upbeat tunes and holiday favorites for the guests, along with the Company R show choir, directed by Lucretia Fenwick.
Veteran thank you’s were offered by Taylor Payne and Addison Hensel. Ridgemont FFA Chapter President McKala Grauel provided updates, along with senior members of the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams.
“Our students and staff are truly blessed because of people like you,” Ridgemont Interim Superintendent Chris Pfister told the senior citizens. “The preparation of this program, the meal, and the performances are our gift to you. May you be blessed this holiday season and know that you are appreciated.”
