The fist monthly meeting of the 50 Plus Club for 2025 provided a much-needed segue from frequent very cold weather survival techniques in the South with a gathering of over 50 members, guests and three visitors at Co-Lin Community College Culinary Arts Technology Program Center in Wesson. 

It was “business as usual”, welcoming the commitment of members, in anticipation of “things to come” for 2025.

Local Author, Dorothy “Dot” Day and husband, Charles did not disappoint with a presentation and review of Dorothy’s journey overcoming insurmountable odds to take to the pen despite progressive debilitating difficulties due to late on-set Muscular Dystrophy. Her story as found in “Ordinary Miracles” chronicles personal life stories as well as the ordinary miracles among Southern writers. (A portion of the profits from sales of her book goes to support Indian missions through Agape Mission –India led by Sam and Jezy Varghese of Brookhaven.)

Progressive limitations of the disease making it impossible for her to type led to a joint venture with Barbara Grillot Gaddy.   In her next book, “Battles: Glimpses of Truth” released in July 2024, yet another “ordinary miracle” occurred, proving to be a partnership brought about by God’s perfect timing,  giving those of us within hearing distance, a perfect opportunity to reassess our abilities which could be lying dormant within the corners of our mind(s), garnering “food for thought”!

Speaking of food…..We were introduced to and served by the students in the Culinary Arts Technology Program for this Semester.  On this third Thursday, these students, under the guidance and supervision of Program Director, Ms Abby Rials, are responsible for all facets relating to the food service industry; room/table preparation, concierge training, meal preparation, serving meals, clean-up as well as the many other values, knowledge and requirements necessary for procurement of food items, health and safety, and last but not least, hospitality (which they NAILED IT, of course!).  A Delicious meal was served by the students and this reporter received numerous “KUDOS” on their enjoyment of the menu selection, the quality of food and the service!  Keep up the good work, kids!

The next meeting of the 50+ Group is scheduled for February 20th.  For information on the 50PLUS Club, call 601-892-8144.