GOODBYE, 2020!

 

In happier times, this was the opening number of the MS NEW JERSEY SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT 2019, at Harrahs Hotel & Casino.

The past year has been disastrous worldwide, and saying goodbye and nevermore to 2020 might give comfort to some, but for those who have suffered the loss of loved ones to the corona virus, no words can suffice for their grief.  

So it goes for the ladies of the NEW JERSEY CAMEO CLUB, as they continue to follow federal guidelines of self quarantine, wearing face masks, and washing hands, etc.  To date, it has paid off, because no member has come down with the dreaded disease.  The ladies have found self quarantine the hardest part, because of the loneliness and isolation it causes.  Ladies who have spouses and significant others, and those with adult children and grandchildren living nearby, are luckier, since they can continue to have family interaction.  But, for the ladies who live alone, it is harder.  

Before COVID-19, there were the NEW JERSEY CAMEO CLUB SHOWCASES to look forward to - a yearlong season of performing for groups across the State.  Quarterly meetings, the annual Christmas Party, singing in the GRANDE DAMES CHORUS, and dancing in the NEW JERSEY ALL STAR DANCERS.  Then, there was "the search for ladies of elegance," for the MS NEW JERSEY SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT, and the participation of the State QUEEN in the MS SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT.  Everyone, regardless of their lot, was active and busy with all that the two organizations offered.

 

Technology has helped somewhat during these trying times.  QUEENS Sherri McGhie and Diane DeLuca have been hosting Zoom meetings twice a month.  Zoom meetings are held on Monday evening at 7:00 PM.  All members with computers are sent invitations and are encouraged to meet.  Those ladies without computers keep in touch by phone, and some have gone out to lunch. 

The present may be gloomy, but the dark days will end and a brighter future will emerge for the world.  What does the future look like for the NJCC & the MSNJSA PAGEANT?   During the past year, the board changed the status to a 501C3 non profit organization.  This new status will allow for more opportunities to grow in the future.  There might even be a MSNJSA PAGEANT 2021!  Stayed tuned.

In conclusion, let's cling to the old adage that "nothing lasts forever." but in a good way.  Hopefully, this dreaded plague will end sometime soon in 2021.  There is a vaccine, which is presently being administered to all essential and frontline workers.  It should be available very soon to everyone else who wishes to have it.   May God watch over you and may He continue to bestow His blessings on you.  Be healthy, and stay safe in the new year to come.