The annual Olde Timers Luncheon, hosted by the North Royalton Lions Club, is far more than a meal—it is a celebration of legacy, and community. It was held in the auditorium of Royal Redeemer Lutheran Church that throws open it’s doors to those Olde Timers who signed up to attend. “We read about it in the Recorder, so we signed up,” is often heard. Every year there are “new” Olde Timers as folks attain the age of 3 score and 10 years – that’s 70, and have lived in North Royalton for 30 years or more.
The North Royalton Lions Club whose motto is “We Serve,” does indeed serve a picnic type lunch for those folks who have lived, shopped, supported the schools and initiatives since at least 1995. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the tables are spread with purple tablecloths and the perkiest, most vibrant, colored flowers you could want to warm a dining table. The Luncheon began at 11:30 a.m. as people queued at the welcoming tables to check off their names and proceeded to a table for seating. The air is quickly filled with the sound of conversation as tablemates get to know each other just becoming new friends.
Opening remarks from the Lions welcomed everyone then the microphone was turned over to Mayor Larry Antoskiewicz, who is a Lion, to say hello once again to the seniors in attendance. Mayor Larry never hesitates to say hello, answer a question or join in a conversation. As the crew of Lions volunteers passed out lunch, the Mayor stopped at tables here to acknowledge the many people he’s known for years before heading over to his next appearance. Meanwhile at the tables, guests enjoyed each other’s company. Comments and conversations were as varied as the attendees themselves. Bill Helmet has lived in North Royalton for 42 years, coming from Parma for more elbow room for the kids and the schools. Sherrie Phillips says she feels, “cut off” from her usual trip down State Road from her home on Wiltshire and is looking forward to the completion of a new safe bridge. “New friends” Judith Stefancik, Barb Seil, Judy Abram, and Debbie Smith all agreed that the opening of the new Senior Center was the best thing that happened this year. “I appreciate playing cards and being able to keep up with friends,” said one of the ladies. “It keeps the old brain in good shape.” We are all little kids when it comes to dessert. In between a spoon of ice cream or a bite of cookie, Kathy and Gene Fioritto and Henri and Maria Ludwig had a spirited discussion of the virtues and frustrations of computer technology – something that didn’t exist when they moved into North Royalton. Bob Waler brought another Olde Timer to the luncheon, although he kept it in the parking lot. It was his 1931 Ford with 90 thousand original miles. He’s the third owner. “It’s been in the family since 1931 when my uncle bought it brand new.” Mark Seaton issued an invitation to anyone who wants to play chess to come to the Senior Center every Tuesday starting at 10:30 a.m., “All levels of players are welcome.”
The luncheon ended with door prizes. Lucky folks got to take home a nice prize, and others got the flower centerpieces. Sue Hagen’s husband Joe was particularly pleased, “I got a gift box; I never win anything.”
Thank You, North Royalton Lions, for a great lunch for Olde Timers sake.
By LINDA KWARCIANY
Contributing Writer
