Warmth and camaraderie filled the air at Bob Duncan Center yesterday, as the 25th annual Mayor’s Holiday Luncheon brought together over 200 senior citizens of Arlington for an event that can be simply summed up as heartwarming and delicious. Treated to barbeque and holiday melodies, the luncheon has cemented itself as a tradition, initiated by former Mayor Elzie Odom and continued by Mayor Jim Ross, celebrating senior residents who actively participate in local recreation center classes and programs. Attributed to the City of Arlington, "Arlington taking care of Arlington is the best thing we’ve got going for us," said Mayor Ross while he, along with Council representatives, gleefully served food to attendees.
The event, consistently sponsored by Spring Creek Barbeque, stands as evidence of the commitment from the local administration and community businesses to support and engage with the senior demographic. "It’s changed my life. I’m not sick anymore. I’m well. You just need to move and cut out sugar," Eve Osbakken, a local participating in wellness programs, emphatically told the City of Arlington, crediting her remarkable 60-pound weight loss and improved health to the resources provided by the Cliff Nelson Recreation Center.
Providing more than just a meal, the event featured a pop-in by the Grinch, and entertainment serenades from local high school students, delivering a well-rounded social experience. "Today we are sharing the spirit of Christmas with our community," said Recreation Program Coordinator Susie Traylor, who has actively coordinated the luncheon for the past decade, and was quoted by the City of Arlington.
