Seniors Celebrate Living Long and Liking It

The Live Long and Like It Senior Citizens Club was organized January 1970 at the Emmett Reed Center and under the direction of Anne Hedgecloth of the Jacksonville Recreation Department. The purpose of the club was to bring together women of a certain age to share ideas and plan programs. In addition, to keep member’s abreast of local, civic, state and national activities, while discussing issues geared toward aging.  The club recently held their 50th anniversary gala at the Rhythm Factory in Arlington bringing together hundreds of members to pay tribute to members that have been on board since the clubs inception. Members enjoyed lunch while recognizing the clubs oldest active member Mrs. Ruby Holmes. The celebration also included tributes to club hymn writer Mrs. Erma Bryant and the club poem written by Mrs. Aria R. Peterson.

Over the past 50 years, the club has traveled throughout the United States visiting historic landmarks in Washington D.C., Memphis, Tennessee, cruises, school donations, voter’s advocacy and enjoying every minute of it! Current president Betty Pittman remarked, “It is not often that a club can celebrate such an auspicious occasion. The past 50 years has been a journey of incredible accomplishments,” said Pittman.  The Club is a charter member of the National Council of Senior Citizens. Shown is President Betty Pittman presenting Carlotta McIntosh with the 25 year membership award.