On Saturday the Mint Hill Christmas Party took place and the event was packed with seniors ranging in age from their 60’s into the 90’s to enjoy a brunch and a good time during the holiday season.  This event was hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, and the meal was sponsored and paid for by Novant Health.

The event began three decades ago at the Masonic Lodge in Mint Hill.  Mike Cochrane took over as the Chairperson of the annual event 23 years ago and has been dong it ever since.  It takes a lot of preparation and willing volunteers to make this annual festive occasion a successful endeavor yearly.  In fact it has become so popular the committee prepares for 600 seniors to attend.

Many of the Mint Hill Town dignitaries were on had including the Board of Commissioners, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Indy’s Assistant Principal, Miss Mint Hill, Miss Teen Mint Hill, Boy Scout Troop 198 and others from the business community who all chipped in to make the day a memorable and fun filled event for all who were fortunate enough to be in attendance.

There was a large raffle with many great gifts for the lucky winners.  Santa Claus arrived and walked the room greeting the seniors and youngsters who were in the crowd.  The food consisting of chicken, green beans, fruit, roll, macaroni and cheese, along with a beverage made the setting very comfortable for the 600 attendees.  In fact the meal was tasty and well prepared with a very happy upbeat atmosphere as the Boy Scouts and volunteers served and catered to the senior citizens on hand.

Larry Sprinkle and Mike Cochrane ran the show and Larry was very entertaining and upbeat making the crowd feel welcome and the festivities enjoyable.  We heard some kind and informative remarks by Chief of Police Ledford, Fire Chief Leath, Tina Ross and others.

Independence High School was very gracious for opening their cafeteria for the event which has been done many times previously.  The Mint Hill High School has become the mainstay for the annual event as the facility can accommodate such a large audience.

We already look forward to next year.