Despite inclement weather, more than 200 St. Mary AARP members attended the organization’s first meeting of the year at the St. Mary Senior Citizens Center in Morgan City on Monday. Members were treated to live music from Hubert Francis and Charles Fryer then took part in bingo games.

A meal of meat sauce spaghetti, salad and bread was sponsored by Lirette Ford – Lincoln. Owner Ronnie Lirette took a moment to address the audience. The task of cooking the meal was headed by Pat Fryer, Linda Darce and Mac McNemar.

Meeting guest speaker was Crystal Lodrigue of Comfort Suites in Morgan City.

AARP Vice President Curtis Leonard conducted the meeting. He reminded members that classes are held at the center that range from knitting to social dancing, art to line dancing, and an exercise program. He also reminded everyone that the weekly 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday bingo sessions started again today.

In other AARP news:

—Those who signed up for upcoming tours were asked to pay the $100 deposit for each trip being booked.

—A new ticket system was put in place for 2013 meetings. Everyone attending will be given one ticket to qualify for the many door prizes. Likewise, donations to St. Mary Outreach resulted in one member getting $25 in cash. Several members won cash prizes from the half-and-half club.

—The February AARP meeting will feature a meal of homemade chili, crackers and king cake. Twin City Funeral Home is the meal sponsor.

—The annual St. Mary AARP Mardi Gras court, ball and buffet will be held on Jan. 19. All past kings and queens will be honored at this 25th anniversary.