It has been a crazy year but not without its reasons to be thankful, even if they came in unexpected packages. I’ve heard of many SVS seniors who have found a way to be involved in the performing arts even while safe at home. Some have taken time to learn new performing skills; others to find a way to be part of a musical group on Zoom or to dance social distanced in their senior facility. Some have even gone the extra mile by delivering weekly flower bouquets to fellow performers in isolation!

In the circle of SVS we do have much for which to give thanks. Our list starts with the dear performers we have known through the years, then the many volunteers, and certainly all the sponsors who make these show financially feasible. It has been a crushing year in many ways, but that Song in Our Hearts…it’s still strumming in there even when things get quiet. Happy Turkey (and Remember the SVS Chickens) Day to all of you!

Twice a month you can find a brand new performance or a favorite flashback from one of our 25 shows on Facebook

Plant the seed, nurture it with love, and watch it grow and grow and grow…

Ronnie Lindeman: Refinished an end table that I’ve wanted to tackle for 20 years!

Geri Derner: Washing my hands! Started doing puzzles again - but no more than 300 pieces or I get frustrated.

You can send your quarantine projects and ideas to us at storycountysvs@gmail.com and we will share. Building community one project at a time.

   Dancing couples have been lighting up the Senior Variety Show stage for many years. When we are seeking ballroom dancers, the Red Friars Dance Club is our go-to organization. In the 25th Annual Senior Variety Show, Celebrating Silver, Creating Gold, the Red Friars were featured as an anniversary act.  

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 Remarks by Hanna Gradwohl, Red Friars member and SVS performer: 

 "Red Friars has been in existence for many years, long before David and I came to Ames. Initially, I believe, they were quite exclusive. They tried to have "half town, half gown" with members associated with the university and the Ames community about equal. Couples had to be invited to join by a member.  

     By the time we arrived this division of members was no longer being observed. We joined in 1988. It was quite formal at the time with men wearing tuxes and women in long gowns. Now Red Friars are much more casual...certainly in the area of dress...much less formal wear. We met for years in The Memorial Union, but now are (or were) meeting at The Moose Lodge on Hwy 69. 

      David and I also danced with Louis & Pat Banitt in the 2^nd Annual Senior Variety Show in 1996. The men were dressed in military uniforms as we featured the glory days of the USO.  

   Though we are still currently members of Red Friars, we have not met since February. Several Red Friars couples at Green Hills now try to gather once a week for dancing when groups there are allowed to meet. It keeps us in contact and enjoying our musical bond. It is certainly good exercise for mind, body, and soul.”

We are welcoming new members! Please check our Web: redfriars.com”