Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Valentine celebration marks 30 years for CADC senior citizen program

The Valentine's Day party at the Senior Adult Center in Gurdon had a double meaning to the clients and staff Monday, as it also marked 30 years of Central Arkansas Development Center service to seniors here.

Royce Ann Barbaree, who announced Carlton McKinnon and Mildred Ferguson, both of Gurdon, as this year's king and queen, said the center has been open 30 years in Gurdon and around 16 years at the current location.

Barbaree said, "It has been 30 years today (Feb. 14) for a CADC center here, and 16 years right here. Gurdon is a wonderful place to support the senior citizens. Let's party."

In addition to the king and queen, Barbaree announced Sybil Harris and Printess Robbins as the first runner-ups for the Valentine's Day contest, with Marvin and Ina Rogers being the second runner-ups.

Barbaree said numerous prizes would be bestowed upon McKinnon and Ferguson for being the reigning 2005 senior citizen king and queen. Among the prizes would be passes to eat at Allen's Barbecue, the Pizza Barn and Sonic, all of Gurdon, and also a free tank of gasoline for their travels.

"We have had hair care products donated and numerous other items. This Valentine's Day party has been a good annual fund raiser for the center and a time when community spirit is really shown," Barbaree said.

Senior Adult Center President Doug Quillin announced a door prize winner as Ray Hurst. After music and a bit of dancing and laughter, the group had lunch as soon as the new king and queen had a red-punch toast with Valentine's Day goblets.