GRAVETTE -- A reception at the Gravette Middle School cafeteria last Friday afternoon honored Ida (Russow) Wheeldon, of Gravette, upon her retirement for her 35 years of service in the school food service department.
Ida began working in the lunch room when it was located in a building that now houses the Gravette Public Library.
"I was 14 years old and I helped in the lunch room," she said, adding that volunteers received free lunches.
A year or two later she began working and, when she graduated in 1971, "Superintendent (Glenn) Duffy asked me if I would like to keep my job. I said yes," she recalled.
Except for brief time-outs, she has continued in the kitchen and, in recent years, has served as manager of the middle school cafeteria operation.
Ida was presented a plaque from the school by food service director Sheila Roughton, who related her appreciation for Ida's good service and loyalty.
She also received a certificate presented by Rita Hamilton of Little Rock, who represented the Arkansas Department of Education. Hamilton then paid special tribute to "a special person" as she sang the well known song, "One Day At A Time," to the applause of the 50 or more people who attended the reception. Among those attending were Superintendent Richard Page and several members of the school board.
Cake and finger foods were served and the honoree received gifts, cards and well wishes from co-workers and friends who were present.
Ida and her husband, Harlan, are parents of two grown children, Joseph and Kimberly.
General News on 04/09/2014