Merry Christmas!

Can it possibly be?

Christmas is only 13 days away?

Where has the time gone?

To borrow from the world’s most famous author, Anonymous, Thanksgiving has passed and the last of the turkey has (finally) disappeared. The expanded edition of Black Friday is over, although the scent of pepper spray lingers in the air. The Super-Sized version of Cyber Monday went by more quietly, but some detect the scent of scorched plastic drifting through Ethernet connections. Locally we’ve also had our first official snowfall of the year.  It was not enough for purists, but more than enough for those Florida-bound.  Despite all the issues and concerns, what better time of the year could there be?

December is a month of parties, events, and festivities. It is hard to resist being included in gatherings in our community, with family, and within our various social groups. Culminating with New Year’s Eve celebrations, December is probably the brightest month of the year. Each community has special displays and programs, Nativity scenes and services. Even if you enjoy the bustle of the season, these are a great way to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the things most meaningful during the holidays. Don’t know where any of these might be? Just ask your family or neighbors! Chances are they will point you in the right direction.

We’ve been told that many of our number were able to take advantage of MCI’s “Holiday Happening” meal on December 5^th.  We appreciate Warden Bunting’s invitation, and have been assured others will follow. 

One invitation that has already been announced to those who attended the “Holiday Happening” involves the Wander Inn.  For a variety of reasons, several years ago MCI closed the staff dining area, affectionately known as the ODR.  The Red Cross, learning of the situation, made a commitment to address this.  In a display of joint cooperation the Wander Inn was created.  Operating from the former ODR, it serves lunches from 10:30am to noon on weekdays.  Prices are similar to those found in the local community, so those remembering the days of the 15 cent honor system would normally need to take a deep breath. 

Not this time!

Warden Bunting has extended an offer to all MCI retirees of a free lunch the first Wednesday of each month.  All that is needed is to call the Warden’s Office no later than the working day before to have your name added to the gate pass (740-382-5781, extension #2210).  On your initial visit they will prepare an MCI Retiree badge for you, eliminating the need for gate passes for future “free lunch” days.  A better offer than this will be hard to find.

In keeping with the season, there are a few dates to mark on your calendar:

December 25, 2012. Christmas. 

December 31, 2012.  New Year’s Eve. 

It’s not too late to select a Designated Driver!

January 1, 2013. New Year’s Day.  The day when the resolutions meet the treadmill.  Or not.

May 7, 2013 @ noon.  Our twice annual MCI Retiree’s Luncheon, at Ryan’s.

To close, we have a lesson to share gained from years of watching bowl games:

Pace yourself!

Have a happy holiday and a wonderful new year.

Robert Ferguson, President

.