State of Franklin Health Council Celebrates Seniors in North Carolina

Only 350 seniors were expected, but 700 turned out for a Roaring 20s Senior Celebration held in Bryson City , N.C. on May 20 by State of Franklin Health Council . The Senior Celebration, held in honor of Older Americans Month, included a luncheon, games, prizes, information booths and much more. Seniors got in the spirit in 20s-style costumes and competed in a look-a-like contest as characters like Bonnie and Clyde , Tom Sawyer and 20s flappers. Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Michell Hicks was present for the event along with several town commissioners and guest speakers. During the festivities, Chief Hicks recognized the local Senior AIDES projects serving seven counties in Region A of North Carolina.

The overwhelming success of the event is credited to its major sponsor for the second year in a row, Harrah's Casino. In the past, the event has been funded and organized entirely by the State of Franklin Health Council . However, for the past two years Harrah's Casino pitched in to provide a venue for the event and donated the meals served. The Cherokee Senior Center provided decorations for the event while the State of Franklin Health Council contributed gifts and prizes for games.

Read an article from The Chronicle from May 20,2004 ...