May is “Older Americans Month” and the Furman G. Mitchell Multipurpose Center celebrated with its annual fish fry on May 29.

The facility was filled with senior citizens from all over Crenshaw County who came to enjoy a fried fish dinner with all the trimmings and to listen to some good, down-home music.

Brunese Thomas, center manager of the Luverne site on South Forest Ave., was pleased with the big turnout.

“We want to celebrate this day and celebrate each of you for being here today and every day,” she told the crowd.

Several dignitaries were on hand for the annual fish luncheon, including Circuit Clerk Jeannie Gibson, Probate Judge Jim Perdue, Luverne Mayor Joe Rex and Mrs. Barbara Sport, and Luverne Police Chief Paul Allen. Also attending was Sylvia Bowers, director of the Area Agency on Aging.

“This is so great when we can see this many people come out and fellowship together—I am so proud to be here with you today,” Bowers said.

Before lunch was served, senior citizens and guests alike enjoyed the music and singing of Tommy and Kayo Sipper, and Ric Sipper and his sister, Lisa S. Rolling. During lunch, Becky Welch entertained everyone with several songs on the piano.

Cletha Norman, who is 97 years young and still loves to “cut a rug”, enjoys coming to the senior center.

“I love the music,” Norman said. “When I was coming up, we could sit and sing all day.”

Lavada Mitchell, another regular attendee to the center, also enjoyed the music line-up for the luncheon.

“This brings back memories,” Mitchell said, tearfully. “Just like the Sippers did today, we used to sing and play together, the whole family—and my late husband could play a guitar just like that.”

Thomas thanked everyone who contributed in any way to make the luncheon such a success.