Christmas shopping began right after Halloween with the Wrap it Up Luncheon, Christmas Boutique and Fashion Show presented by the ladies of C. C. Young’s Body Mind Spirit Connection. The event was held on Wednesday, November 2, 2016 at the Brook Hollow Golf Club with proceeds from the event benefiting the senior care community’s Benevolence Fund.
The guests began arriving at 10:30 a.m. to shop the Christmas Boutique which offered stocking stuffers, hostess gifts, girlfriend gifts, baby gifts, jewelry, Christmas gifts, and themed Christmas trees (to be delivered). There were one-of-a-kind items, Christmas ornaments, scarves, shawls, unique santas and many gift items. Many items were priced below retail and were limited in quantities.
Guests sat down for lunch at 11:30 to enjoy A Fashion Conversation with Betty Reiter and Jan Strimple with a fashion presentation by Betty Reiter, Inc. Fashions were modeled by members of the Body Mind Spirit Connection. Betty and Jan were a great team working in tandem to share the details of the handpicked fashion selections from Betty’s shop. With Jan’s incredible knowledge and background of the fashion industry, she had many stories and tales about the featured designers and fashions.
Russell Crews, President and CEO of C. C. Young, introduced one of the residents, 98 year old Orville Rogers and the two sat on stage for a lively conversation. Orville became an avid runner at age 50 when he read Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s book Aerobics which was highly controversial when it was published. Orville still runs and continues to set running records because there are few in his age bracket running.
“I will turn 99 next week. I believe in living life to the fullest and I am here by the grace of God,” he said.
Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s wife Millie was in attendance. “We’ve known Orville for years and years. He is such an inspiration to people of all ages.“
Community Volunteer Sue Ringle served as the Honorary Chair. She became interested in the good work of C.C. Young after learning about the many activities made available to its residents and the fundraising activities it undertakes to support the programs offered to residents. She is now a member of the C.C. Young Board of Directors.
The event was chaired by Jill Goldberg and Katherine Blair is the President of Body Mind Spirit Connection.
The purpose of Body Mind Spirit Connection is to support the Benevolence Fund at C. C. Young and outreach to the surrounding community through education on health and social issues. The Fund serves as a financial safety net and ensures residents always have a place to call home, regardless of their financial position. Seniors often outlive their income and assets and the Benevolence Fund ensures they will be taken care of for the remainder of their lives. C. C. Young is located near White Rock Lake and is a driving force in the community.
Photos by Chuck Clark