On August 16th family, friends, and co-workers gathered at the Coralville Marriott to help Mary Smith celebrate her 60th birthday. About 195 people showed up, including Mary’s 9 siblings, her children from afar (including England and California), and her mother and parents-in-law.

What did this crowd of people do to help Mary celebrate? Tasty food, drinks, and dancing! But first, we were all treated to an amazing slideshow with pictures of Mary from childhood onwards. Guests mingled and ate hors d'oeuvres while the memories played and played, on a huge screen, with a musical background. While a few brave souls could be seen on the dance floor this early on in the evening, the real action would have to wait…

Mary and her guests were serenaded by the members of the Red Panties Society, “sisters” of the birthday lady, who sang an original piece! As for the dancing, it was reported that something not quite like a line dance, and not quite like the hokey-pokey broke out on the ballroom floor. Dancers took their turns strutting their stuff in the middle of a giant circle of revelers. One of Mary’s wishes for us was that we all would have a fun time dancing!

Great company, great food, and a great time were had by all at a great location. Happy Birthday Mary, and here’s to many more to come!