Photo courtesy Kathi Shackles
Four generations of poetry lovers attended Valentine luncheon. Left to right are: Nadene Cochran, Jane Adcock, Lesa Young, and Jessica Young.

Courtyard Estates Hosts

•February 17, 2016•

By Ariana Cherry
For the News Progress

The 100 Valentine’s Day Luncheon and Poetry Contest attendees know a thing or two about love-after-all, from their years of experience.

Experiences were shared at the annual gathering held at Courtyard Estates in Sullivan Friday, February 12.

A verse from Harry McCorkle’s poem, “Memories,” spoke measures of wisdom. “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.”

The luncheon has developed into quite the social event in the last eight years. The idea originally was started by Sullivan resident, Linda Spencer who formerly was employed with Mid Illinois Senior Services through Experience Works. Sadly, she was unable to attend this year because of health issues.

“This is the first time we have had to turn people away. We had 100 seats,” stated Deb Groendal , the director of Mid Illinois Senior Center. “It just keeps getting bigger and bigger each year,” she added. ‘Not only has the event drawn more people, but the poetic talent just keeps getting better and more creative.” Judges Kathy Shackles, Holly Allendorf, Alicia Moyer and Ariana Cherry all would agree. “It definitely was harder to choose winners this year,” said Allendorf.     Login or Subscribe to read the rest of this story.