What started as a beauty shop conversation about the number of local women over the age of 90, turned into a rollicking “Nifty Nineties” party last week organized by Billie Riley of Kingfisher.

“I was amazed to think about all the women in our area who are over the age of 90 and still active and involved,” Riley said. “I wanted them to get some recognition.”

In less than two months, Riley assembled a committee of volunteers and solicited donations from the communty to make the “Nifty Nineties” party possible.

Out of 23 invitations issued, the 11 birthday girls who attended (above) included: seated from left, Alice Mapel, Thelma Hansens, Anita Parks, Rowena Reitz, Frances Scott, Alice Hinkle and Mozel Eaton; standing, Marge Ogle, Jean Mackey, Betty Jane Teders and Bonnie Armstrong.

Helpers and hostesses included, from left, Madeline Red-wine, Madell Henderson, Donna Lann, Sharon Shepard, Michele Simon, Debbie Parks, Riley, Kathi Edsall, Cheryl Wheelbarger, Dawn Reitz, Shauna Rupp and Lavenia Boutwell.

In addition to a cake and light refreshments, the party included entertainment provided by the Jones sisters (Redwine, Henderson and Boutwell) and manicure stations operated by Shepard and Lann.

At bottom left, Shepard gives Alice Mapel a manicure as Riley looks on. At bottom right, Thelma Hansens and Mozel Eaton compare nail polish colors.

“I couldn’t have done this without all the wonderful help from my committee and the community,” Riley said.

“The best part was seeing these women visiting with each other, chattering away and having a good time,” she added. “The joy on their faces made it all worthwhile.”

For those unable to attend, Riley said they may have another opportunity.

“But probably not until next year,” she said.

[All Photos by Jim Butcher]