THE MONTGOMERY NEWS, week of APRIL 22, 2024
Submitted by Lois Lumbra
Monday, April 15: Sue Peters and I attended the Montgomery Senior Meal. This is a once a month meal provided by Parma Jewett with the help of many community volunteers who set up and clean up. In recognition of Chloe Hardy giving of her time and help over many years at these dinners, Sue Peters presented Chloe with a homemade quilt in appreciation for all her kindness, always being willing to help serve, and just being such a wonderful young lady. Those in attendance also thanked Chloe and Sue. Everyone feels the community support of all the volunteers’ generosity, kindness, and thoughtfulness.
Thursday, April 18: Therese Begnoche, Sue Peters, and I went to the dinner at the Dairy Center. My sister-in-law, Roberta Martin, and our niece, Melissa Tice, joined us along with many Montgomery friends. It was lovely to meet with everyone as we enjoyed our meal and chats.
Friday, April 19: A Celebration of Dale ‘Puffer’ Lumbra’s Life, was held on Friday afternoon at the Snowshoe Restaurant where family and friends gathered to share their memories and times with Puffer. When Penny and I arrived the place was full, standing room only, and it stayed that way most of the afternoon. I overheard people saying they had not seen each other for over 20 years or more, so they had some catching up on who, what, and where. The Celebration for Dale with his children, siblings, and friends was truly a wonderful afternoon of sharing. Dale would have been overwhelmed and so honored for this send-off turn out. RIP in peace Dale, our love from all.
Saturday, April 20: A Memorial Service for Melinda Arceneaux-Swearingen was held at Pratt Hall with family and friends. Sons Andrew and John Nicholls shared memories of their mom and a special poem entitled “Water Meditation,” written by Melinda years ago, was read by dear friend Laurie Ellis; her grandchildren, and friends also added their memories. A large basket of bells was passed and Pratt Hall rung loud and clear as Melinda had previously discussed “going out with bells and whistles.” Her wish was granted. She was laid to rest near her husband, Ed, in the Montgomery Center Cemetery. RIP Melinda, you will be missed by many. God Bless!
Sunday, April 21: Lay speaker, John Gorton, led our Church service today with his message entitled “Abide in Christ.”
The Pine Cone Snack Bar in Berkshire opened this past week and Penny and I went over for lunch today. There were lots of customers in spite of the cold breezy day; there was new snow that fell overnight on the higher elevations. It’s a very cold wind that keeps us hanging on to our winter coats.
Chuckle of the week told on Boxcar Willy:
His steel guitar player does a drunken man scene on the show. Boxcar Willy says, “You know drinking liquor is bad for you. I will do a demonstration. Now watch. I have a half glass of water and put this little worm in it and it swims around enjoying itself. Now I take this little worm and put it in liquor. Watch what happens. It tried swimming and look, it stopped. It’s dead. What does that tell you about drinking liquor?” He said, “As long as I drink liquor I won’t have worms.”
Just this past week I have once again been enjoying BoxCar Willy. He does the best old train whistle of anyone. When they say music is good for the soul, they are right, music one enjoys.
Have a good week folks, with L.T.A.
