Tri-State Trimmers share some Christmas cheer

December 23, 2002|by MARLO BARNHART

Editor's note: This is one in a series of stories running on the 12 days before Christmas to recognize individuals and groups who make the holidays better for others.

While only in its second year, the Tri-State Trimmers Hallmark Ornament Club wasn't about to miss the opportunity to share some Christmas cheer this year with residents of Loyalton, an assisted-living facility off Robinwood Drive.

"We began back in November preparing for the Christmas season with the residents there," said club president Nancy Muritz.

Fifteen of the members met Nov. 21 and assembled 50 Christmas wreaths made out of evergreen material, at least one Hallmark ornament and whatever the individual maker chose from an assortment of ribbons, fake snow and other decorative items, Muritz said.

All the materials were donated by the members.

Then on Nov. 25, the members went to Loyalton at 20009 Rosebank Way and distributed the 12-inch wreaths to the residents.

"Each resident was allowed to choose the wreath he or she wanted," Muritz said.

About 30 of the 50 residents of the facility attended a party, while the rest of the wreaths were distributed later to those who couldn't attend.

The group provided punch and cookies, and joined in the singing of Christmas songs with the residents, Muritz said.

"The rest of the time we visited with the residents," she said.

The group organized in October 2000 and has about 40 members. In the past two years, the Trimmers have adopted several organizations, Muritz said.

Easter baskets were made for the children at CASA and a monetary donation was made to the local Breast Cancer Awareness campaign. Muritz said food donations also have been made to local food banks and toys have been given for the past two years to Toys for Tots.

"This project for Christmas was a natural for us," Muritz said. "And I personally enjoy doing things for older people."

The group is sponsored by Fahrney's Hallmark in the South End Shopping Center and Matthews Hallmark in Valley Mall. The members meet 11 months of the year, excluding December.

For more information on the club and its activities, call Muritz at 301-797-7275.

Tuesday: Howard "Butch" Buhrman, Clopper Road decorations.

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