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Seniors enjoy prom, casino night at Oliver Woods
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Friday, June 20, 2008 11:30 PM EDT
OWOSSO - It was a night of dancing, gambling and live music.
But this wasn't Sin City, it was the Oliver Woods Retirement Village casino night and prom.
It was the second year Oliver Woods hosted a prom for its 62 residents. Organizers said they plan to make the prom an annual event.
The night began with a primerib and turkey dinner at 5 p.m.
After dinner, residents tried their luck at blackjack, poker, roulette and slot machines that were available.
But all the bells and whistles from the slot machines or cheers after getting a good hand at cards were for naught. The casino night didn't include actual payouts.
Seniors also enjoyed live music and dancing with the Jack Clarkson Band providing entertainment.
The band played at the prom and casino night last year as well.
“Everywhere you looked they were just jamming, dancing and laughing,” said band member Jack Clarkson.
The residents also expressed how much they enjoyed the prom.
“I think the whole thing is very glamorous,” said resident Catherine Sholler.
Sholler attended the prom with her husband Duane and they were decked out in formal dress and tuxedo like many of other residents.
It is, however, completely optional for a resident whether they want to dress up.
The Shollers are the only couple that lives at the retirement village.
“On Valentine's Day, we were voted king and queen,” Duane said with a smile.
While many retirement homes have similar events, Administrator Marsha Meeuwse-Hutson said the staff and volunteers at Oliver Woods in a lot of effort to ensure a successful night.
Residents got dresses and tuxes for free. Activities Director Vicky Conrad said the dresses came from Ann and Amber's Attic and J's Tux and Bridal Boutique provided the tuxes.
Resident Mary Rohver's dog sported a miniature tux.
The formality of the event was a little different for resident Beatrice Ward.
“To tell you the truth, I'd rather be wearing slacks,” Ward said. “ But once in a while it's fun to have something different...We get great care. They are very good to us here.”
Many family members also were at the event to support their relatives.
Dallas Lintner was at Oliver Woods with his wife Jennifer Lintner. They came to spend time with Jennifer's grandmother Marion Bourdon.
“I think the whole thing is really exciting,” Dallas Lintner said. “It's nice to see them all dolled up and I think it's a neat way for families to connect with their relatives.”
Janie McCartney came with her mother Virginia Fernette.
“They get so excited you can just feel it,” McCartney said. “And when they start coming out in their fancy clothes they are just like little kids again.”
