BRAD HORN/Nevada AppealThe audience erupts with applause after the Halau Hula O'Leilani group from Reno finished its performance during the grandparent's day barbecue at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center on Sunday.
It was more than the enticement of a free barbecue.
Nearly 200 seniors showed up Sunday at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center for lunch in recognition of Grandparent's Day. Many went for the opportunity to get out and enjoy the day among friends and make some new ones.
"I felt so honored," said Agnes Gann, 67, of Silver Springs. "I, for the first time, sat on a Harley-Davidson. I'm having fun and am enjoying this tremendously."
Gann, who is a grandparent of 19, and great-grandparent of six, was joined by friends Fran McClain, 74, of Carson City, Betty Bowling, 82, of Silver Springs, and Irene Feagan, 62, also of Silver Springs.
The event held at the senior center was hosted by the Ladies of Harley and the Carson Tahoe HOG Chapter.
It was a fundraiser, with proceeds going to the Meals on Wheels program at the senior center.
Janice Sheppard, of Dayton, has been a member of Ladies of Harley for nearly two years and was smiling at all the seniors who were in attendance.
"I'm happy with today's turnout," she said. "Last year we had more of us than them."
Clara and Jim Pickel of Minden were attending for the first time. After sitting on a Harley, Jim said, "I want to buy a bike."
"Oh, I won't allow that," added Clara with a laugh. "I think it's nice what they're doing for us."
As members of the HOG grilled burgers and hot dogs outside in the west parking lot, the smell of barbecue wafted through the dining room. The meal included salads, desserts and refreshments.
"This is our first year attending," said Bob and Ginny Delaski of Carson City, who have more than 20 grandchildren.
"We're enjoying ourselves and will stay and play some bingo."
As the seniors ate their lunch, a hula group from Reno performed several dances and Joyce Cabello, an officer with LOH, called out ticket numbers for raffle prizes.
"I think this is great," said Mary Bynum, 80, of Carson City, who has four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
"I was surprised when I walked in here at all the people."
- Contact Rhonda Costa at rcosta@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.