The Boomers are taking over … the Baby Boomers, that is! A Boomer here, a Boomer there … we’re everywhere!

What is a Baby Boomer, you ask? The term was penned by journalists describing the record number of infants born in the United States directly after the end of World War II.

As the soldiers returned home from the war, there was a boom in the number of births all around our country and in every state. Thus, the Baby Boomers were literally born, and I am one! A Baby Boomer, sounds real nice.

You know, I never thought, at this time of life, I could be a “baby” anything, but here I am just booming along, and I have plenty of company. We Boomers are on the march and, as we travel along, and our numbers are increasing in every segment and activity of our community. Well, just watch out!

Actually, according to official records, the Boomer population numbers are probably the most significant recorded in recent times; there were overwhelming numbers of births in one short period of time — from late 1945 until 1964 there were 79 million babies born in the United States.

And, the big news is: the first of these numbers, the first Boomers, are coming into their retirement years during 2006-07. Hold on to your hats, because we are here!

Yes, the Boomers are the most active segment of population, active in many ways. And retailers are paying attention as the Boomers have the extra time and money to partake, well, in everything! From shopping to traveling, from beginning new businesses to writing novels – the Boomers are on the march.

And it’s not all bad, actually the Boomer way of life can add tons of advantages in many areas: volunteerism is a main Boomer project. I mean, what would LOVE’s Kitchen, for example, be without volunteers? Or the Meridian Council for the Arts, Meridian’s First Civitan Ladies, and church choirs? Oh, it goes on and on … so much to volunteer for, so little time.

Recently, I attired myself in my “Boomer Hat” and my sturdy “Boomer Marching Boots” as I set out to read of my original and creative writing efforts, as a volunteer, to students at Northeast Lauderdale Elementary School. As I read to a large number of bright-eyed, cherub-cheeked youngsters, I thanked my Maker for such an opportunity. I received much more joy than I gave — perks of being a Boomer volunteer.

Also, I am finding in “Boomer Land,” where I now reside, that the fulfilling of one’s heart through generosity and volunteer community participation is my No. 1 job description. Sprinkle in good friends, a worshipful and mission-minded church family, then add cute grandchildren into the mix, and you’re all set. Try it; you’ll see what I mean.

Some may say I sound as though I’m bragging, well, maybe I am — but Boomers have something to brag about.

Oh, let us cut-to-the-chase, as some ol’ coon hunters would lament. We Boomers have the time and money (most of us not rich, but secure) to seek endeavors that will fill the bank account of our hearts. The days are over when we spend time with people who make us unhappy, or become involved with commitments that become chores.

No, we are all way passed this nonsense. How did Forrest Gump describe happiness? “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get.” I would add, if life is a box of chocolates, make mine Snickers. I have never had a bad day with a Snickers in my hand!

During this past summer, as I traveled the state of Mississippi with several of my Mississippi Writers Guild friends, we were happy to see the results of Boomers-on-the-March.

We found Mississippi public libraries are one of the main recipients. Most of the libraries are in the mainstream of providing meaningful and inspiring Boomer activities.

From the Friends of the Library, and other volunteer groups, to the organizing of interesting workshops detailing story-telling and creative writing themes, libraries are showing their commitment to the Boomers of their communities, and Boomers work hard to help libraries put these activities together for all community residents — a win/win situation.

I must mention one library, in particular, that is very active along this line. The Eudora Welty Public Library in Jackson has many opportunities for the Boomer population.

Under the leadership of Librarian Ruth Davis, each month is filled with events such as “Applause.” This is an event that invites members of the writing community to present programs of interest to the Boomers, or perhaps a workshop on journaling, and much more. You may contact Mrs. Davis at rdavis@jhibrary.com.

Let us not forget our own Meridian/Lauderdale County Activity Center, formerly the Senior Citizens Center. From ballroom dancing to lovely and unique craft projects led by talented local artist Pegi Harmon, or perhaps Yoga led by regally thin Rene Weiler, plus the Gopher Turtle Literary Club, led by Katherine Horne, there are so many opportunities at the center, under the guidance of Director Barbara Wells, that it makes one’s head spin.

A spinning head, a dancing body, the peace of purifying the mind and body, creative keepsake artwork, and a lively literary discussion are all available just by a phone call to the center, (601) 485-1812.

So, bring on the Boomer Year of 2007. We’re crafty, we’re thin (or plan to be!), we’re purified, and well-read … yes, the Baby Boomers are ready!



Anne McKee is a retiree and free-lance writer who lives in Meridian.