Here’s somebody to interview at length: Martha Kirby.
“Michael Barnes has written more than 9,000 articles,” intoned Kirby, 90, as she nodded in my direction from the dais during the Retired Officers’ Wives Club of Austin luncheon at Green Pastures last week. “None of them about the officers’ club.”
Donna Di Loreto and Sue Kidwell
Funny, formal, yet a bit scampy, Kirby launched the luncheon on a bright note. The group meets regularly, in part to socialize and share memories, but also to raise money for veterans’ causes.
I spent the most time with Donna Di Loreto, who told me about her fruitful gardening efforts, and Grizelda Black, who ran the meeting in a pleasantly businesslike manner and alerted me to some 1940s-style big-band dances in the area.
Nancy Hargarten and Mrs. Kunze
The main amusement that midday was a fashion show courtesy of the Coldwater Creek shop in Barton Creek Mall. Worn by members, these layered outfits were simultaneously stylish and age appropriate.
You know, I attend a lot of luncheons, but this one painted a big smile on my face from beginning to end.
Nancy Kojazarek and Grizelda Black
“We’ve been trying to get publicity for decades,” Kirby said. “But the Statesman always told us: ‘There are too many social clubs.’”
Well, in my defense, I didn’t know anything about the club until a week or so before the meal. I’d gladly hang out with this merry troop any time. I’m sure what they really want, however, is to recruit is more spouses of retired military officers.
Carry on!