The Unity in the Community Organization recently held its annual Sharing in the Community Senior Citizen Christmas Social. This event marks the seventh year of recognizing and celebrating many senior citizens who reside in Polk County and the Landrum area.

An estimated crowd of more than 125 attendees showed up ready to enjoy the festivities of the evening. With a restaurant-style setting, the guests pondered over the menu, while listening to live music provided by Cory McDowell and Company, of Landrum S.C., as board members and community volunteers waited on their every need. The menu consisted of a salad, meatloaf, baked chicken, green beans, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, tea and a wide variety of desserts.

Rev. Stencil Quarles, pastor of the Union Grove Baptist Church, Columbus served as host for the evening. Longtime residents of the Green Creek area, Rev. James and Rosie Lowrance were the keynote speakers, in the Inspiration Moment Segment. The Lowrances spoke of their 65-year marriage and their family’s Christmas traditions down through years.

Other participants included Rev. Eleanor Miller, Rev. Carl Wanamaker, Tony Thompson and Theodore Kelly. Unity in the Community’s board member Faye Jones led the fun and friendly competition of guessing holiday songs from a few lyrics provided. Bringing the event to a close, with the most anticipated part of the evening, seniors were called to the stage to pick from over 150 wrapped gifts, gift bags and fruit baskets.

This project was made possible by the Seasonal Assistance Cheer Grant and the Polk County Community Foundation.

– submitted by David Staley