Submitted Photo Celebrating January and February birthdays are, from left, Jean McDaneld, Joan Suski and Eleanor Lemiszko. Missing are Claudia Markham, Walter Klycek, Sue Duecker and Elaine Wojda.

The Jan. 15 meeting opened on the second Tuesday of the month that we call the Ides of January. President Ed Newman offered a warm-hearted welcome back to Jean McDaneld and a sincere welcome to the club to new member Carm Tampio of Silver Creek. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and “God Bless America” was sung with purpose. Chaplain Dorothy Miniri invoked prayers of thanks for the blessed assurance of God’s love, peace and presence in our lives.

It’s the middle of January and that makes for the perfect time to sing happy and silly songs. “Happy Birthday” is the first song which honors our delightful January and February birthday celebrators. The silly songs start with “Hail, Hail, the Gang’s All Here,” which prompts us to “Roll Out the Barrel,” because “In Heaven There is No Beer.” We take a break to indulge in luscious birthday cake topped with ice cream. A delicious side order of gourmet spinach croquettes are waiting, ready to be savored and dipped in honey mustard. Delicious! Finally, “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” you can show it with a smile and a song. We just “Can’t Help Singing!”

50/50 winners were Enabell Mirando, Pauline Flitt, Harry Suski. Door prizes were won by Marilyn Flint, Harry Suski and Mirando. Ernie Hilliker called mind-sharpening bingo, and the winners were Joan Suski (twice), Miniri (twice), Lorrie Newman, Shirley Sikorski (twice), Ed Newman (twice) and Tampio.

At the next meeting on Jan. 22, at the Silver Creek clubhouse, potluck will be served, thanks to volunteers.