‘Dancing’ was one enjoyable evening
By MARIAN HOUSER, community editorLove dancing? Don't miss a segment of television's "Dancing With the Stars"? If your answer is "yes," I hope you attended the local version presented by the Nimble Thimble Federated Club at Froehlich's Classic Corner. It was a relaxing, enjoyable evening with prizes for all the participants.
The audience was treated to dancing contestants of all ages and styles, beginning with an endearing performance by beguiling Quartzaha Holmes, dressed in a tutu and escorted by young Marcus Lyles.
Showstoppers included a swing dance expertly performed by Jan and Dick Reiter, a classic Detroit ballroom- style cha-cha number by Val and Bill Ford of Pittsburgh and a very professional tap dance by Mackenzie McAbee, winner of the West Virginia Cinderella Woman title and 2009 International Cinderella Cover Girl.
A smooth interpretation of the rumba and swing was delivered by Veronica Jackson and Eddie Alexander. An inspirational number by Latina Featherston and Shayla Moore and a modern dance interpretation by LaRon Smith rounded out the show.
Andrea Swick, who recently returned from a New York dance workshop, performed two very enjoyable numbers.
Judges were generous with their "10s" for performances but they also had some professional critiques for the dancers. Judging were Kevin Elmore, a dancer, Michele McAbee of Michele's Dance Studio in Weirton and Conway Owens, a singer.
Chris Williams was the disc jockey, Anita Gilliam and Howard Stupid, a comedian and nightclub entertainer, were emcees.
Trophies were presented by Sheila Hendricks, president of the Ohio Association of Colored Women's Clubs, and Patricia Fletcher, past national president of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs.
Choreographers were Smith, a dancer and physical fitness instructor, the Reiters, veteran dancers who brought ballroom dancing back to the area with a series of dances at the former Fort Steuben ballroom, and Latina Featherston.
For me, it was a relaxing, enjoyable evening after a busy week.
Wednesday night I stopped down at Aladdin Land for the Shriner's Club monthly fundraiser dinner. For a minimum $6 donation, I had a cabbage roll dinner with all the trimmings. Stuffed peppers also were on the menu but a sell-out crowd took care of those before I arrived.
The Shriners hold the dinners the third Wednesday of the month and always have a homestyle meal. You won't go away hungry. Thursday night I visited La Bonne Vie, (photos top right) for an evening of good company and patriotic music.
Saturday morning I attended the opening segment of the Second Baptist Church Women's Ministry weekend where Connie Vinson was saluted for her many years of leadership. I'll have more about the Saturday service later this week.
N.C. women hold get-together
The GFWC WV Woman's Club of New Cumberland had an informal "Get Acquainted Evening" for prospective members to meet current members and to learn about the workings and purpose of the club.
The event was held at the Hines Park with refreshments and fellowship.
Prospective members were introduced. They are Joyce Young, Patty Fisher, Shirley Wildman and Debbie Peterson.
Shelva Andrews presided and gave a brief orientation talk on the 1932 era when the GFWC WV Woman's Club of New Cumberland was federated. Marie Converse wore a dress in the style of 75 years ago and Alice Mitchell wore modern dress.
Dorothy Hawkes, program chairman, gave a preview of the the September and October meetings.
Andrews announced the Northern District fund raiser to be held Sept. 14 at the Weirton Holiday Inn at 2 p.m. A style show will be held with fashions from Phyllis'. Tickets are $15 and can be obtained from Andrews. Linda Marsh and Alice Mitchell reported on members who are ill.
The first regular meeting of the club will be held Tuesday at 1 p.m in Swaney Memorial Library.
Country Friends meeting canceled
Country Friends has canceled its Monday meeting at the Get-Together Picnic Grounds. The regular schedule will resume after the holiday.
Friday meetings at the Masonic Annex are not affected. Doors for the covered-dish event open at 5 p.m. and music begins at 6 p.m.
For information, call (304) 527-4253.
