Meg Hibbert, Contributing writer
Nancy Decker’s wish to visit “Downton Abbey” was fulfilled with a gala night that transformed the Joseph C. Thomas Center at Richfield into the famed television show’s Victorian setting.
Residents and guest were transported to Highclere Castle.
The event on the evening of May 8 featured a four-course dinner, elegant desserts and mocktails, costumed residents and dancing partners from the Glenvar High School Football Team.
“I think this is amazing,” said Decker, who watched all 15 seasons of Downton Abbey. “This reminds me so much of the way it was portrayed,” she said, looking around at a backdrop of the abbey and her happy fellow residents.
“This is so beautiful,” added Decker, who has lived at JCT for seven months. She previously lived in Richfield’s Knollwood Apartments.
“Ken’s Rhythm Changers” band provided background and dancing music on talented musicians playing grand piano, saxophone, clarinet, upright string bass and drums.
Jitterbug music and “It Had to Be You” were favorites.
Activies Coordinator Beverly Adams, staff and volunteers worked for months to plan and execute the event.
Amy Blevins and her mother, resident Alice Hilton, in elbow length satin gloves were thrilled with the night. “I ordered our entire outfits, complete with fascinators (hats),” said Blevins.
JCT bakers provided iced cookies that looked like Downton Abbey and other scenes from the series.
One of the youngest dancers who had a wonderful time in her frilly pink dress and sparkly shoes was 2-year-old Niomi Heffner, who was at the party with her grandmother and mother, Linda Hefner and Chloe Heffner.
