Schenk party has unplanned surprise

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Ricker Plaza was the scene of some excitement Friday afternoon as several residents and visitors gathered to wish Elinor Schenk well before she moves out. “I’m going to live at with my daughter and son-in-law in Houlton,” said Schenk.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
BON VOYAGE — Lois Downing, left, Jeri Smith and Smith’s mother Elinor Schenk have a good laugh as they recover following the loss of the farewell cake that fell on the floor. Behind them, from left, are: Helen Sherman, Verna MacArthur and Theodore Sherman who drove in from Island Falls for Schenk’s send-off before she moves to her daughter’s and son-in law’s home in Houlton. Smith immediately took off to purchase a second cake that was reported to be as delicious as the first would have been.
    The party was hosted by Ricker Plaza’s Bingo Group and Schenk’s daughter Jeri Smith. But, before the festivities took off, so did the cake. It slid from the tray onto the floor just as the photo was being taken, causing an uproar of laughter and surprise. Lois Downing, a guest, said: “It was hilarious.” The smashed cake was disposed of and Smith took off in search of another cake.
    Downing reported that when normalcy resumed, the spirits were still high. “Barbara Spellman entertained on the electronic keyboard with some of Elinor’s favorites. And, we had sandwiches, punch, coffee, soda and the beautiful [newly replaced] cake.” Downing added that the group played Bingo for money prizes.
    Three vases of fresh flowers including black-eyed Susans and other blooms were the perfect appointments for the room that was decorated predominately in pink from the tablecloth to the plates and napkins.
    Several friends drove in from Island Falls to join the residents of Ricker Plaza and Schenk’s family.