The Erie Canal Belles of Spencerport are now a chartered member of the Red Hat Society. This organization began as the result of a few women deciding "to greet middle age with verve, humor and elan. We believe silliness is the comedy relief of life, since we are all in it together, we might as well join red-gloved hands and go for the gusto together. Underneath the frivolity, we share a bond of affection, forged by common life experiences and a genuine enthusiasm for where ever life takes us next." The group was founded based on the poem "Warning" by British writer Jenny Joseph in which she vows someday to "wear purple and be whimsical." "Queen Mum," Jane Dry, belonged to a group in Greece and had such a great time she decided to start a chapter in Spencerport. By word of mouth many inquired about membership, and in a short time 24 vibrant and fun filled ladies joined the group. There is now a waiting list. The Erie Canal Belles meet monthly, always in full regalia. "We're donned in bright red and purple and have a ball doing so. Thus far our gatherings have included lunches, dinners, theater and some line-dancing lessons. The Christmas celebration was a magnificent luncheon at Linda DeRue's Country Corners Bed and Breakfast," said Dry. Members include: Ginny Ainsworth, Joan Barlow, Jan Clements, Mary Lou Clifford, Bev Cummigham, Linda DeRue, Jane Dry, Liz Grieco, Cheryl Johnson, Rita Kretchmer, Pat Lugert, Kathy Magin, Jean Marks, Barb Masseau, Gail McQuilkin, Diane Miller, Mary Ann Pearl, Brenda Reimherr, Heide Reinschmidt, Pat Rowley, Carol Schauman, Shirley Schuff, Barb Sherwood, Jan Weitz. |
