Sunny skies and a band of roving musicians greeted twenty-one friends who gathered for an al fresco cocktail party at the home of Genevieve Sansone-Gracovetsky to celebrate the 80th birthday of Beverly Meeker. Flowers, wine and hors d'oeuvres were brought, making a bountiful table in the garden.
Beverly and her husband, Leonard, have lived in Ocracoke for 11 years. Before that, they vacationed summers here since their honeymoon in 1969.
The party was organized by the "Ladies Who Lunch," an unofficial gathering of friends over a certain age. For over thirty years some form of the group has met once a week on Saturday at local restaurants to share stories, news and wisdom.
The celebration began with a surprise rendering of "Happy Birthday" sung by the group and played oustanding Ocracoke musicians, Serge Gracovetsky, clarinet; Marcy Brenner, banjo; and Lou Castro, guitar.
An original hand-painted card by local artist Barbara Adams was signed by the group and presented to the honoree.
Ever the dramaturge, Mrs. Meeker presented an adaptation of the poem "When I Am Old I Shall Wear Purple." Members mimed the lines narrated by Norma Sigal and were directed to do so with whimsy and dramatic flair. No rehearsals resulted in unexpected visual humor. Many wore purple to the celebration.
Happy Birthday, Beverly!
Thanks to Brenda Kremser, one of the Lunch Ladies, for the story and photos.
