Club going from Newcomers to River Roses in red hats

The Newcomers' Club, known for its monthly lunch meetings at Port Cape Girardeau, was in search of a new name. Their membership was decreasing because people were losing interest.

That was in February. During the club's search for a new name they instead decided to become part of an international society whose primary purpose is to have fun. The Newcomers can now be called the River Roses of Girar-deau, Cape Girardeau County chapter, part of the National Red Hat Society. Regionally, there are two chapters in Cape Girardeau, one in Sikeston and one in Jackson.

The clubs have no rules, but there is a dress code. The formal dress code for members over 50 requires a red hat and purple attire; those under 50 are considered Red Hats in training and lavender attire with a pink hat is mandatory.

The women, who have decided to greet middle age with verve and humor since they're all in it together, invite any woman who wants to participate and have fun, including newcomers.

For more information, call queen bee Connie Vardaro at 334-7674.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133