Seniors from Tri-State area gather to celebrate Independence Day

HUNTINGTON -- It was a red, white and blue dinner Thursday night for seniors at the Cecil H. Underwood Senior Center in Huntington as they celebrated American independence with friends.

Seniors from around the area gathered to have an all-American cookout complete with hot dogs, watermelon and desserts. The center's first 4th of July Celebration attendants also were treated to patriotic and spiritual music by younger singers Lacy and Nicole Lemley.

Marine Corps veteran and Cabell County Commissioner Bob Bailey recognized the handful of veterans in a crowd of about 50. Bailey attributed his successes and his character to the Marine Corps. He also noted the importance of celebrating July 4th.

"It is a very special occasion, an occasion when we get to praise those who have fought and died for our country," Bailey said. "If I didn't join the Marine Corps, I wouldn't have amounted to anything."

Marine Sgt. James Lester of Chesapeake, Ohio, attended the event to show support for the event and to local veterans. Lester said it's important for all people, not just veterans, to celebrate Independence Day. Acknowledging veterans, he said, lets members of the military know that you are remembering all of those who have served.

Karen Sifford, the center's executive director, said she hoped continue the event and give local seniors an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the holiday with people they grew up with and people they know. Sifford said the event was developed by senior center volunteers with the aid of the Cabell County Community Service Organization.