Gazette Side Streets Columnist Bill Vogrin presented an interesting program about his career as a reporter and columnist at the Sept. 10 meeting of the Black Forest AARP Chapter.†He affirmed hisinterest in championing issues important to ordinary citizens in the community. He also fielded numerous questions from the floor regarding the evolution of the newspaper industry in the electronic age.The 42rd anniversary of the founding of Chapter 1100 of AARP was celebrated with the traditional monthly potluck lunch and the recognition of noteworthy members.†Seven special longevity badges were presented.†Edna Eaton and Lexie Manfrin were presented with a personalized silver longevity badge for 25 consecutive years as chapter members.†Gwen Burk was awarded a blue badge for 20 years, and Janet Hoover was recognized for 15 years of membership with a pink badge.†Don Cote, Sheila Bishop and Bill Bishop were each recognized for five years of continuous membership with a white badge. Colorful longevity badges are presented annually in increments of five years for continuous membership in the Black Forest AARP Chapter.President Chuck Karlstrum also presented certificates of appreciation to Lin Rozak, Diane Apodaca, Helen Von Gunden, Edna Eaton, Ray Rozak and Stan Beckner, citing their individual hard work and exceptional service to the chapter over the past year.Lavonne Hidy and Theresa Tilton, who baked special “anniversary cupcakes” for the chapter, also led the chapter in singing the humorous song “I’m a Senior” accompanied on the piano by Electa Beckner.Special “Fight Fraud – Shred Instead” T-shirts were presented to those present who volunteered to work the document shredding event that took place in September.The Black Forest AARP Chapter meets the second Wednesday of most months. The chapter motto is “To Serve not to be Served.î †Annual dues are $10, and all ages are welcome. †For more information, call Chuck at 749.9227 or visit the chapter website at http://aarpchapter1100blackforest.weebly.com.
