Riccadonna returns to entertain seniors
Members of the Four Seasons Senior Citizens Organization held its monthly meeting on Nov. 11 at the Serbian American Cultural Center.
President Vincent Oliver opened the meeting, recognizing members who are veterans and expressing gratitude for their brave efforts in serving to protect our freedom.
Mary Rose Spano, chaplain, gave the invocation and led the prayer before the meal. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang "God Bless America."
Oliver welcomed back member Elizabeth (Lee) Carducci, who has been ill. He introduced Shirley Porter, guest of Betty Fowler, and Dwayne Jones, guest of Pat Ferrell.
Following dinner, accordionist Ed Riccadonna returned as the evening's entertainer. He began the program by strolling through the audience playing popular melodies. When he moved to the stage to continue his performance, several members enjoyed dancing to nostalgic favorites and lively Italian songs. The program's finale was an impromptu duet with member Tony Carissimi.
The secretary and the treasurer gave their reports, which were approved and filed.
Membership Chairperson Ruth Ladomersky reported a total of 208 members; there are still openings for new members.
Reservation Chairperson Josie Cekinovich announced a total of 135 reservations, including two guests, and explained the cancellation.
Assistant Secretary Marge Trinone reported that a get-well card was sent to Oliver. Members acknowledged the November birthdays of Norma Yoho, Lester Fridley, Rose Barbara and Nick Rodriguez, and the 52nd anniversary of Nancy and Lester Fridley.
Tour Director Carolyn Shaffer reviewed one upcoming trip:
- Dec. 3, Rivers Casino, $25, with $20 free play and $5 food coupon.
New tours for 2010 include:
- Feb. 27-March 7, Orlando, Fla., $725, eight nights lodging, fourteen meals, visits to Holy Land Experience, Morse Museum, Downtown Disney, Winter Park and St. Augustine, Fla., on return trip.
- April 17, Canton, Ohio, $56, MAPS Air Museum, Pro Football Hall of Fame and Classic Car Museum.
- April 24-May 1, Branson Show Extravaganza, $589, six nights lodging, ten meals and seven shows.
- Sept. 11-21, Santa Fe and Albuquerque, N.M., $929, ten nights lodging, 18 meals, visits to Will Rogers Museum, Sky City, Old Town Albuquerque, American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame in Amarillo and more.
- Nov. 11-18, Biltmore Estate, $365, three nights lodging, six meals, visits to Grove Arcade, St. Lawrence Basilica and Harrah's Casino.
For details and reservations contact Carolyn Shaffer at (304) 748-0766.
Winners of the 50/50 drawing were Carissimi and Larry Basil. The free dinner from the club was won by Tony Beltrame. Rita Orler and Margarite Paolo won the dinner certificates. Door prizes donated by local merchants were awarded to Charlie Fletcher, Valerie Rowland, Shirley Brecht, Mishel Robinson, Wanda Perrone, Wilda Horton, Cathy Hardsouk and Larry Basil. The winner of the afghan donated by Angie Gillette was Jim Brecht.
After the closing prayer, Oliver adjourned the meeting.
Members shared in bingo and cards afterwards.
