For the last 61 years, there has been an organization in Natchez whose mission is to welcome new people into the area. With renewed interest in growth and regionalism, the Newcomers Club wants to invite all newcomers in the Natchez and the Miss-Lou, as well as residents who have been here for a while and love Natchez!

We need Natchez residents to become part of a club that meets and welcomes new residents. We want to share our love for the City of Natchez and the area with residents who wish to join.

The club celebrates 61 years in November of 2010. Newcomers was founded in 1949 by Margaret Parsons. It began with birthday coffees that were in the home of the late Dorothy McNeil from the 1970s until her death in 1996. Dorothy was a member of Newcomers and served as president. There was a time when the Newcomers Club was responsible for meeting and welcoming as many of the new people moving into Natchez as possible.

The late Jennie Junkin used to be the welcome wagon lady which was an integral role in the club. She would go to the homes of the new residents in town with bags that contained maps, coupons, gifts and other promotional items from businesses in town.

No longer calling them “birthday coffees,” the club still holds a monthly coffee or cocktail party at a member’s home and a luncheon every month at different local restaurants with speakers or entertainment.

The Newcomers Club also has a bridge group for those interested. Our November coffee is where the members bring canned goods for donation to the Stewpot to share our blessings for Thanksgiving. Our December coffee is an annual cookie swap and auction with everyone bringing cookies and a handmade or purchased item to be auctioned off. Proceeds from the auction are donated to a local charity of our choosing each year. The event is in a member’s house, and lunch is provided by the officers. It is always a festive occasion. We also have a Christmas cocktail party for members, spouses and friends.

Traditionally only a women’s club, the Newcomers Club invites all spouses or significant others to the monthly luncheons and special functions. We also have a Valentine’s cocktail party and an annual picnic at one of our member’s house on Lake Bruin. These parties are not to be missed. We encourage the men to take part and become involved in the mission of the Newcomers Club.

The name “newcomers” might be misleading. Even though there are newcomers to Natchez in the club, the “old” newcomers are essential members. There are no limitations to how long someone has lived in Natchez or the surrounding area to be a member.

We have young, retired, working ladies, mothers and grandmothers in the club. There is no age limit. If you are new in town or have lived here for years, joining our club is a great way to meet people and make friends. We are all about fellowship, having fun, eating, networking and becoming informed about Natchez and the surrounding area.

Please take this an invitation to come to our first cocktail party of the year at 6 p.m. this Wednesday. The location will be in a member’s home. Please check the “Tracings” in The Democrat for more information if you are interested. Also you are invited to our first luncheon of the year, spouses included, at the Vue Restaurant, at noon, Wednesday, Sept. 22.

We will be treated to a fashion show by Katie’s Ladies Apparel. Bring your friends. Please watch “Tracings” for locations and times for the coffees, luncheons and parties.

We welcome newcomers as well as “old timers” to become active members of the Newcomers Club helping our city and surrounding area to grow and prosper. Direct any questions of membership or information to me at: sandy@taylordyachtcharters.com or 601-442-6067.

Do you love Natchez? Then get involved in your community and show it. It is fun, and we hope you will take this opportunity. See you there!

Sandy Taylor is president of the Newcomers Club in Natchez.