For more than 250 seniors, the mayor’s holiday senior luncheon on Dec. 12 represented the social event of the year. Many of them signed up in November to ensure a spot at this Christmas party.

 Some of these seniors ran the halls of Bates as students. Others ran the halls as Annapolis Senior Activity Center volunteers, setting up for events and cleaning up afterward. Some have done both. Others are newcomers, still forging close ties with Annapolis and with the senior center.

 Hugs abounded and tears sparkled in the eyes of many seniors as they greeted friends that they hadn’t seen for a long time.

 “I’m really glad I got to talk with her,” one senior said of a friend. “I may never see her again.”

 The oldest senior attending the party was 102. Others ages represented included the 98, 92 and 89 year olds and so forth right down to the 55 year old youngsters.

 They all appreciated the food catered by WE CARE & Friends, the contributions of area businesses, and the City of Annapolis and Annapolis Senior Advisory Council volunteers. Many took advantage of transportation provided by the Annapolis Transit and the Department of Aging and Disabilities Transportation Program. Mayor Joshua J. Cohen made special mention of the Annapolis Recreation and Parks Department crew for its many volunteers helping with the event.

 In addition to meeting friends and savoring the food, the seniors enjoyed the music of the Retro-Rockets band which has been hailed by CBS Local WJZ as one of the best retro bands in the Baltimore area.

 The band regaled the seniors with music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, and beyond. It played such favorites as “At the Hop,” “Runaway,” “Mustang Sally,” “Wanderer,” and “Blueberry Hill.”

 The audience got into the swing of things, standing up and making the “YMCA” letters with their arms and singing along with “Under the Boardwalk.” Iris Hirsch, female lead singer, was out there leading the “Hand Jive” with the saxophone player.

 The band was so in tune with its audience that by the time a senior requested “Baby It's Cold Outside,” the band was already playing it.

 As the party was winding down, the band played “Stand By Me.” The performance ended in Sha Na Na style with “Good Night Sweetheart.”

 To get in touch with the band or to see our schedule, go to the website, www.retro-rockets.