The Celebration of Christmas is not necessarily over at midnight on Dec. 26 — at least that was the case for over 150 senior citizens from Polk County and surrounding area, who attended the annual Sharing in the Community Senior Citizen Christmas Social.

Just like the previous years, it was strategically planned to be held after Christmas to avoid the hustle and bustle that comes along with the season.

As live music played in the background, a catered meal was served by The Unity in the Community Board members and community volunteers, with ham, garlic herb chicken, macaroni and cheese, green beans, mashed potatoes, and an array of different types of desserts on the menu.

Songs, games and monologues were on tap to engage and entertain the attendees. Travon McEntyre, Quantel Petty and Dollie Moore each hit the stage separately with dramatic and humorous monologues. Other participates included the Rev. Carl Wanamaker, Calvin Hines, Beverly McKinney and Theodore Kelly.

The highlight and conclusion of the evening come when the participants were called to the stage to pick out a gift of their choice. With over 160 gifts, some being wrapped and some unwrapped, the senior citizens, carefully making their choice, could almost be described as “kids in a candy store,” representatives said.

This project was funded and made possible by the Polk County Community Foundation and the Seasonal Assistance and Cheer Fund. The ninth annual Senior Citizen Christmas Social was sponsored by the Unity in the Community Organization.

– Submitted by David Staley