In November, Salisbury-Rowan AARP Chapter 4314 was advised that they had been awarded the Governor’s 2009 Award for Volunteer Service. This award is presented annually to individuals or organizations in North Carolina who distinguish themselves through volunteer service to make their community a better place.
In the Governor’s letter, she explains that “role models, such as you, positively impact lives of others, strengthen communities, foster civic engagement and help forge a better North Carolina.”
Since 1979, more than 16,000 North Carolina volunteers have been recognized with this honor.
This award was earned through the numerous programs and events that members of the chapter participated in during the past year. The chapter continues to be represented at the spring and fall Senior Expos at the Salisbury Mall. They also joined with the Centralina Area Agency on Aging and Rowan County Community Advisory Committee in the celebration of Older American Month in May and a Christmas party at the Salisbury Civic Center for older adults living in Rowan County at assisted living facilities, skilled nursing centers, family care homes and adult day care centers.
The chapter also sponsored and provided two driver safety training programs as well as a “Car Fit” and “We Need to Talk” seminar for older drivers. Other community service projects included supporting the annual Relay for Life dinner and AARP’s “Tax Aid” assistance for seniors.
Local Chapter 4314 meets at 1 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at Rufty-Holmes Senior Center on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Salisbury. Meetings are designed to inform and educate members on health, safety, legal and local issues and are open to all AARP members.
Beta Sigma Phi
The Iota Psi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi played host to Santa Claus the afternoon of Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Rockwell Community Center.
Santa Claus was played by James Lohr, father of member Chantal Lohr. He played games with children, distributed gifts assisted by Santa’s elf, D. Anne Simerson, and he posed for pictures with guests.
Santa also assisted in the serving of punch and cookies for the children, and treat bags and prizes were given to each child.
Thursday, Dec. 17, member Vicki Lippard hosted a candlelight Christmas party in her China Grove home for the chapter, including a secret sister gift exchange. Envoy member Scottie Lippard and wife Kelly (honorary member) assisted with serving dinner.
Christmas recital
Students of McGill Music Studios, Frances McGill, instructor, presented a recital, “The Christ of Christmas in Legend and in Truth,” Dec. 15 at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury.
Students performing were Drake Burlingham, Ginny Weant, Kapri Johnson, Ashley Jamison, Leanna Kim Smith, Salem Hockett and Sarah Jamison.