The Down East Seniors held its regular meeting at The Blind Center on April 17. President, Bob Diefendorf, introduced Elwood “Mac” Wilson as a new member. Lou Weltzer gave his “profile” which started in Buffalo, N.Y. where he was born. He worked for the Pennsylvania R.R. for 38 years in its real estate department. He traveled around the country buying, selling and leasing “right of way” properties for the expanding system. He and his wife, Mary Lou, moved to Cypress Landing in 1997.

Dr. Frank Stallings introduced Dr. Phil Ninan, psychiatrist who talked about the human brain, the most complicated organ in the human body. Unfortunately, he said it doesn’t come with a “user manual.” The brain has millions and millions of neurons and circuits. He discussed several forms of meditation such as yoga from India, and tai chi from China. Afterwards, he led the group in three minutes of silent meditation, which he recommended to be used on a regular basis. An animated question and answer period followed.

Ray Briley won the 50/50 drawing.

The Down East Seniors met at the Blind Center on April 24, 2013 at 10 a.m. Bob Diefendorf led the members in singing the National Anthem and saying the Pledge of Allegiance. New members were introduced as well as one guest, Jim Hackney. Mike Gwynn gave a member profile. Mike talked about his upbringing and early jobs held. Most of his career was spent at Texas Gulf here and in Florida. He was awarded The Order of the Pines by the Governor of North Carolina. The featured speaker was Michele Benson, introduced by Rudy Burns. Benson heads the Guardian Ad Litem in a five county area. She leads a group of 35 volunteers who represent young children in court in family disputes with aid from an attorney. The program is very successful but it needs more volunteers. Benson answered several questions from the group.

The next meeting of Down East Seniors will be held on May 1 at 10 a.m. at the Blind Center.  Dick Paul will be the featured speaker.  He will discuss his experiences on TV.  There will be no meeting on May 8. The annual spring dinner will be held on May 8 at 5:30 p.m. at the Estuarium.